30+ Different Types of Garages (with Photos)

The garage is one of the most crucial parts of a home, especially if you own a car. With a garage, your vehicle is protected from the elements that could otherwise cause cracks in the windows and rusting throughout the metal components. However, a garage is so much more than a place to store your car. It can be used to organize your tools, serve as a workshop, or even have an additional living space.

While many of us know the garage as being a simple four-walled structure, there are a number of other variations, which offer different functions and purposes. For example, some of the most common types of garages include detached garages, attached garages, workshop garages, apartment garages, carports, portable carports, and barns. Garages can also be categorized based on the size, type of garage door, flooring material, and roof material.

There are numerous factors that must be considered when determining the perfect garage for you and your property. In fact, the possibilities for garage customization are nearly endless, which can make the process a bit overwhelming. However, that’s where we come in! Continue reading for our comprehensive guide on garages, including type, doors, size, materials, and storage solutions.

Many assume that a garage is solely for storage and for parking a vehicle, though this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, a well-designed, functioning garage can be nearly as important as any other room in a home. It is, arguably, the most multipurpose place on a property. When it comes to determining the right garage for you, you must factor in its purpose or function to be.

As opposed to simply throwing your underused items into your garage and out of sight, you can create an organized, fully functional space. One of the easiest ways to do this is to line the interior walls of the garage with metal shelving to store everything from camping gear and sporting goods to miscellaneous knick-knacks. Alternatively, for a different look, you can line the walls with wooden bookshelves.

A garage can also be an excellent place to get some work done. Transform it into an office space, a workshop, or an arts and crafts studio. Or, clear out the clutter in your garage and turn it into a personal gym. Avoid monthly fees and have a place in your own home that you can escape to after a long days’ worth of work.

Finally, another option is to create a family living space inside of your garage. Add carpeting or some rugs, paint the walls, and install windows to allow more natural light in. Consider including a pool table, foosball table, or even a bar if you want to turn your garage into a man cave.

As the name indicates, detached garages exist completely separate from your home. In most cases, it is situated behind the house and may not even be visible from the road. If you desire a distinct look for your garage, a detached version may be your best bet. Also, if your home doesn’t have a good place to position a garage door a detached garage is a great solution.

Unlike attached garages, you can construct detached garages in pretty much any location on your property. They can also be built at any time after your house has already been built. Detached garages are also an excellent choice when you simply don’t have enough space for an attached version to be placed on the side of your house. Of course, the main drawback of having a detached garage is the fact that you’ll have to go outside to access it.

Detached garages are relatively simple to construct, especially with the option to use prefab garages or work with a professional builder. You can also select from a range of exterior materials to make the detached garage match the rest of your house.

As you might expect, while a detached garage is entirely separate from the house, an attached garage is not. These types of garages contact the structure of the house and are the most popular type in the United States. They are positioned directly on one side of the house, offering a seamless transition from the home’s interior to the garage space. Traditionally, they are designed for storing vehicles, but are also commonly used as workshops or for storage.

While one car and two-car garages tend to be the most common, many homeowners nowadays are expanding the size of their garages to be three- and sometimes even four-car. With an attached garage, you don’t have to go outdoors to access the contents of your garage. When they are connected to the house, there is typically a door that goes from the home to the garage. This is a major advantage, as whenever there is inclement weather, you can very easily get to your car without having to step outside.

Though, one major drawback to these types of garages is that you don’t have much design flexibility. Since the garage is connected to your house, it must match. While you could choose a different exterior color or material for your garage, it won’t look very appealing situated right up next to your house.

This type of garage is a combination of a detached garage and an attached garage. It is the perfect choice if you already have an existing detached garage on your property and want the benefits that come with having an attached garage. A portico garage involves constructing a breezeway that connects the detached garage to the home. It is generally a small addition to the home that can make a big difference.

There are also several options when you want to build a portico garage. You can enclose the entire area or build just a simple roof that keeps the pathway to the garage dry. This type of garage creates a secure, climate-controlled area that can serve as a place for storing your umbrella, muddy boots, or raincoat.

This option offers the convenience of a traditional attached garage, without actually having to build one right onto the home and using an existing detached structure.

When compared to traditional garages, workshop garages are typically oversized. Some even feature four or more bays to be used for storing multiple cars, trucks, and other vehicles. Aside from vehicles, workshop garages can also be used for storing a full workbench and various equipment.

This type of garage is ideal for homeowners who like to spend time working on their car or a mechanic that needs space to work out of their own home. In most cases, the bay doors on workshop garages can be rolled up to conveniently bring vehicles in and out, in addition to conventional access doors.

If you’re limited on space in your home, it may be a good idea to build a small living space or apartment above your garage. The garage apartment, or carriage house, is a variant that features a room above the garage that can be utilized for a variety of purposes. In most cases, this type of garage is very efficient and cost-effective. It works wonderfully in instances of inclement weather when you may not want to step out of your detached garage to get into your home.

The additional living space above your garage can include beds and become a small apartment for guests. Or, you also have the option of renting out the space to make some extra money on the side. Generally speaking, if you want to add a guest bedroom to your home but are limited on space, consider the garage apartment style.

Of all the types of garages, the carport is the least expensive option. It can be thought of as an open style of garage, as it does not have any walls. This type of garage simply has just a roof that shields your vehicle from the elements. The roof is supported by beams at each corner of the structure.

Because carports don’t require walls, windows, or doors, it is a much more affordable option than a closed garage. They provide a very convenient way of pulling your car in and out of its parking space without any risk of hitting walls or the garage door.

Though, the lack of walls can also be a drawback, as it won’t prevent excessive heat or cold from potentially damaging your vehicle. As such, carports are not recommended in areas of the world that experience extreme temperatures.

A portable garage is essentially a portable carport since it’s just a roof that protects your vehicle from the elements. This type of garage is an excellent choice for those that don’t want to have a permanent structure and would like to use that space for purposes other than parking their vehicles. Most often, portable garages are constructed out of fabrics and other durable materials that have the ability to withstand both powerful winds and excessive heat.

When needed, a portable garage can be easily assembled to protect your car and then conveniently folded and put away afterward. They work great to keep your car shielded during the winter months. These garages can also be taken anywhere, which can be incredibly helpful while camping. Or, if you have a small backyard or front yard and don’t want to alter their appearance by constructing a permanent garage, a temporary portable version is a great solution.

Although not technically a garage, barns are commonly used as garages. In fact, if you want both a single-car garage and quite a bit of additional storage space, a barn garage is a wonderful choice. The loft storage that barns include ensures that you have ample space for storing your belongings without taking up floor or wall space in the garage.

In some cases, old barns can be transformed into functioning garages. Or, a barn garage can be custom-built to match the design of your home. Though, you’ll want to select a garage door that also complements your home. The ability to add on walk-in access doors makes these types of garages even more accessible, as you won’t have to raise or lower the large door to get in or out efficiently.

The garage door is a very important component of the entire structure, as it frames the space. Many argue that the front door is a more crucial part of the home, but consider how large a garage door is in comparison. If you have an attached garage or any other type that is visible from the street, the first thing that people will see is the garage door.

Therefore, to maximize the curb appeal of your home, you’ll want to opt for an appealing garage door that complements your home. Aside from looks, you’ll also need to think about how you want the door to function, as there are a number of options to choose from.

Sectional garage doors are the most popular type found in America. They consist of panel sections that are all connected together with hinges. As the door is opened or closed, wheels on the edges of the panels roll along a vertical track on each side of the door’s opening. The hinges on each panel bend on a curved section of the track, which allows the door to rest parallel against the ceiling when fully open or flush with the walls when fully closed.

What prevents the door from drifting down when it’s slightly ajar is a set of high-tension springs found above the garage door opening. These doors are generally made out of steel, are low maintenance, and can be customized using hardware, colors, textures, and even window inserts. They also can be found in both insulated and non-insulated versions (more on this below).

Side to side, or side sliding, garage doors are exactly as the name indicates, operated in a side to side motion. One side of the door is bent and will rest parallel to the wall. These types of garage doors were among the first designs and were typically used for garages that had limited headroom.

They function along with lower trolleys that can still work well even with minor slopes in the ceiling or floor. Side to side garage doors do not require balancing springs and feature a built-in retractable motor for automatic operation, without needing a ceiling-mounted operator.

Although you might find this type of garage door in commercial applications more often than residential, roll-up garage doors are a great option for garages with limited ceiling space. It is characterized by two- to three-inch slat sections, typically made out of steel, that roll up and down using a drum that is positioned above the door opening.

Roll-up garage doors, or commonly called coiling doors, are designed to withstand heavy usage. High-performance models can be constructed without springs or enclosed to reduce the risk of freezing, corrosion, and rust. Because of the heavy-duty nature of this design, roll-up doors usually have much higher upfront costs than sectional doors.

Another old-fashioned style, side-hinged garage doors operate by swinging them open and closed on a hinged frame on the sides of the opening. They look similar to large barn doors and are commonly made out of wood. However, there are also more heavy-duty, commercial options made out of galvanized steel.

In recent years, there has been more demand for side-hinged garage doors – especially for spaces with limited headroom or obstructions. They can be purchased as pre-hung steel frames or can be custom-fit to match your existing opening. You can also have them automated with specialized conversion arms.

Similar to side-hinged and roll-up doors, tilt-up garage doors do not have sections. Instead, they are constructed out of one solid piece. There are two main styles: tilt-up canopy doors and tilt-up retractable doors. The tilt-up canopy doors feature a pivoting hinge mechanism, which allows the door to be tilted up into the garage. When closed, the door sits parallel to the ceiling of the garage and, when open, it extends past the front of the home.

The tilt-up retractable garage door design, on the other hand, suspends independently from the frame. As a result, they do not extend past the front exterior of the house – unlike tilt-up canopy doors. This type of garage door requires more space than the canopy variety. While many homeowners choose the retractable style, they are generally more expensive and can be challenging to operate.

In certain parts of the country, weather-resistant doors are a necessity. If you live in an area that experiences a significant amount of cold weather, rain, snow, or temperature fluctuations, insulated garage doors are also a must. These doors are outfitted with specialized weather stripping, providing ample protection during cold weather conditions. In most cases, you can find a particular door style in both insulated and non-insulated models.

In recent years, the carriage-house style garage door has become very popular because of its classy, sophisticated feel. It is a timeless look that displays a traditional, yet rich finish. This type of garage door can also work great in rural areas, or homes that are less modern, for a country-style.

Traditionally, carriage-house-style doors are constructed out of woods and are very reminiscent of the days when garage doors were primarily pulled open. Though, nowadays, you can find this style of door in steel and aluminum. They are incredibly durable and offer a range of accessories to achieve your desired look. Although carriage-house style garage doors tend to be more expensive than other varieties, they are an incredibly desirable choice for homebuyers.

Another way that garages can be categorized is based on their size. Selecting the right size garage for your home may be a challenging decision, especially if you’ve never owned a garage before. You don’t want your garage to be too narrow and end up having difficulty parking your car. On the other hand, you also don’t want your garage to be too big and look awkward in relation to the rest of your home.

With that said, here are the most common garage door sizes you can choose from:

Although single-car garages are very popular, they will only offer space for storing one car and a small number of items on the sides. It basically allows just enough space for both the driver and passengers to open their doors and be able to move around the car. Single garages usually have a total area of around 14 square meters, or roughly 150 square feet.

Since these garages don’t require much space, they can be beneficial for small lots. However, single-car garages don’t provide sufficient storage space inside and likely won’t have enough space for a workshop. If you want to have a workshop in your garage, you’ll likely want to consider a larger option.

As the name indicates, a double garage can accommodate two vehicles parked side-by-side. This is likely the most common garage size, offering ample space for your cars and also some additional storage space. These garages typically have either two separate doors or one double-wide door that can fit two cars. With this size, there is also plenty of space for maneuvering around the vehicles.

Although many enjoy the look of a two-car garage with individual doors, this layout can be tricky to pull in and out of – especially if you have a large vehicle. If you own a van, large SUV, or truck, it’s likely best to opt for a double garage that has one door. The total area of double garages is usually between 28 and 30 square meters, or approximately 320 square feet.

Before you choose this type of garage make sure that you verify that the space is large enough to have a workshop (if desired) and always consider the overhead storage for those articles that you can never find space for.

Although many assume that a triple-wide garage can house three vehicles, this isn’t always true. In fact, a garage is a relatively affordable way to add additional storage space to your property or create a home workshop. These types of garages are also a great choice if you own a riding mower that you want to store inside or have a considerable number of tools that you need to find a home for.

It’s highly likely that you won’t run out of room when you have a three-car garage and you can utilize the space to your needs. Three-car garages typically come in three separate layouts: a three-car garage with one single door, a three-car garage with two doors, and a three-car garage with three doors. Choose the option that works best with your home and your storage requirements.

Tandem garages aren’t entirely different from double garages, in that they also can accommodate two vehicles. However, instead of parking the two cars side-by-side, tandem garages involve parking them nose-to-tail. The shape of these types of garages is different, featuring only one door for both cars to enter and exit.

Obviously, the disadvantage to this type of garage is the fact that you’ll constantly be having to swap cars around in order to get out of the garage. However, tandem garages can be an excellent solution for small lots that still want to be able to store two vehicles.

Wood is certainly beautiful and this style of garage will look great with virtually any style of home. When compared to other options, wood is certainly not the most long-lasting material. It is susceptible to rot, insects, and warping, which can greatly damage the appearance of your garage. As such, wood garages will require a considerable amount of upkeep over the years to protect them from pest and water damage.

However, wood is still a wonderful material that can make even the simplest structure look stylish. It can also work with both traditional and contemporary style homes. Many homeowners love the streamlined appearance that wood offers, as it can be painted to blend perfectly with the exterior of their house.

Stainless steel is a lightweight option for garage siding, but isn’t considered the most long-lasting. Most homeowners choose this type of siding since it is easy to install, lightweight, and typically very cost-effective. The metal is not prone to fading or damage caused by weather or temperature fluctuations, meaning the siding will never need painting or staining. Unlike wood, stainless steel garages aren’t prone to insects or rodent damage.

For the most part, stainless steel is pretty durable. Though, it does scratch easily. It’s important that you repair scratches immediately after they occur to prevent rust from forming. The color should also be retouched from time to time, but overall, stainless steel is a great affordable garage siding option.

Metal garage roofing is an excellent option, especially for detached garages and carports. Though, metal can look wonderful when used on a home that is modern or contemporary in design. This type of roofing looks appealing, has a long lifespan, and isn’t sensitive to the elements. Since metal doesn’t rot as wood does, there is little concern about leaks or water damage occurring inside of the garage.

This benefit can be especially desirable for those who are storing expensive vehicles or lawn equipment in the garage and don’t want any risk of them becoming damaged by the elements.

Although epoxy can be time-consuming to appeal, requiring many coats, the results will be fantastic! You can use your imagination and add colors, chips, or other small embeds to yield a unique, visual appearance on your garage floor. As an added bonus, epoxy is incredibly durable and will last you up to 20 years.

It’s also easy to clean and presents no risk of staining from chemicals. In fact, epoxy flooring is, arguably, one of the greatest decisions you can make when it comes to designing a garage.

While many enjoy the look of carpet in their garage, there are a number of things you must consider first. Carpet is incredibly challenging to keep clean and dry, especially in a garage setting. It is also very susceptible to growing mold. Choosing carpet for your garage flooring will result in you having to clean and repair it on a regular basis.

Carpet is typically only a good idea if you’re trying to showcase a vintage car. In this case, you’ll want to opt for indoor/outdoor carpeting and have it professionally installed to ensure longevity. Although the carpet will be comfortable to walk on, attractive, and reduce noise in your garage, it is will still be highly susceptible to tearing and staining.

Related Questions

What is the difference between a garage and a carport?

Generally speaking, a garage is typically considered an enclosed building with a roof and a garage door. Whereas, a carport is generally regarded as a partially covered structure that is open on two or more sides, with a roof, or some other form of top covering. Garages tend to be more difficult to construct and more expensive compared to carports.Although they’re not completely enclosed, carports do provide some level of protection for vehicles. However, garages enjoy the benefit of maximum protection from the elements and can be locked to deter unwanted guests.

Do garages need ventilation?

It’s not required for residential garages to be ventilated under ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.2. Though, the EPA does recommend garages to have active ventilation in order to rid the space of carbon monoxide and other toxic fumes. Garage ventilation can also help with heating/cooling and airflow.Though, if have a detached garage that is separate from your home, there’s less of a concern for toxic fumes and carbon monoxide. Therefore, you may not need ventilation for these types of garages.

Is it legal to convert a garage into a living space?

Yes, it is legal to convert a garage into a living space. Though, there are typically local regulations and building permits required, which can cost between $200 and $300, depending on where you live and the total cost of the project.Oftentimes, building an addition onto your existing home may be a better alternative to converting your garage into a living space. While the permits will usually be the same, the approval process is much easier, as most municipalities accept these types of expansions.