How Much Does It Cost To Build A Garage In The UK? Whether you need extra storage space, a place to safely park your vehicle, or just want to increase your property value, there are affordable solutions available for everyone.
So, without further ado, here’s how to build a garage in the most budget-friendly way the UK has to offer, step-by-step.
Why Build a Garage?
Benefits of Having a Garage
Get the most from your garage A garage is not just a place to park your vehicle; it is an investment into your home and your way of life. Here are some of the top advantages:
- Protection for Vehicles: Garages protect vehicles from inclement weather such as rain, snow, and frost, which can lead to wear and tear.
- Additional Room: Garages serve as a safe space for storage, from tools and gardening supplies to bikes and holiday decorations.
- Added Value of Home: Homes with garages are more attractive to buyers, which increases the value of your property.
Common Challenges
The advantages are clear, but do keep the following challenges in mind:
- Costly: Traditional brick and mortar garages can be pricey, so finding an affordable alternative becomes a need.
- Planning Permissions: Depending on the size and location, in the UK you may have to navigate regulations (which can take time and money).
How Much Does a Garage Cost? Types and Prices
You must consider both your needs and budget when deciding what type of garage to build. Below, we will define the most common garage types and their costs.
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Prefabricated Garages
Prefab (or prefabricated) garages are an affordable and popular option for homeowners in the UK. They come pre-made with easy to assemble, shipped in parts.
Concrete Prefab Garages
Cost Guide: £1,200 – £13,500 (based on size and quality)
Advantages:
- Portable, for traveling with outdoors equipment.
- Quick and easy to install.
- Cost-effective than traditional garages.
Drawbacks:
- Limited design flexibility.
- Wooden Prefab Garages
- Cost: £150 – £2,000 for DIY kits.
Advantages:
- Affordable and eco-friendly.
- Simple to curate and perfect for adhering to DIY tasks.
Drawbacks:
Number of stores offer this service: The only access to treatment is through prescriptive experts.
- Pole Garages
- Pole garages are pole barns and they are relatively easy and inexpensive.
- Cost Per Square Foot: £10–£30
Benefits:
- Minimal foundation costs.
- Faster construction time.
Drawbacks:
- More temporary than permanent structures.
- Traditional Brick Garages
- The most traditional and durable option, brick garages have the highest price tag but also the longest last.
- Single Garage Flat Roof: £18,000–£26,000.
Double Garage, Pitched Tiled Roof: £38,000–£50,000.
Benefits:
- Endurance and beauty.
- Increased property value.
Drawbacks:
Why open-bid construction is not the best choice: High cost of lumber and labor versus prefab
| Garage Type | Cost Range | Pros | Cons |
| Concrete Prefab Garage | £1,200–£13,500 | Durable, quick to install | Limited design options |
| Wooden Prefab Garage | £150–£2,000 | Affordable, customizable | Requires regular maintenance |
| Pole Garage | £10–£30 per square foot | Low foundation cost, fast build time | Less durable |
| Traditional Brick Garage | £18,000–£50,000 | Long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing | High costs for materials and labor |
Cheapest Materials for Garage Construction
Selecting the right materials can save you a fortune when building your garage. Here are some of the more inexpensive options:
Wood
Pros:
- Cheap material (from £150 for prefab kits).
- Lightweight and easy to work with, great for DIYers.
Cons:
- Okay with maintenance but always vulnerable to rot and insect damage.
- Wall framing (make framing for drywall) — Internal framing{“type”:”text”}
Concrete Panels
Pros:
- Cheap prefab kits are available for as little as £1,200.
- High Weather Resistance And Extremely Durable
Cons:
- Less opportunities for customization than other materials.
- Metal Frames
Pros:
- So strong but also lightweight so easy to put together.
- Cheaper for bigger buildings.
Cons:
Central heating means it’s less exposed to temperature extremes but still vulnerable.
DIY vs. Hiring Professionals
When planning to build a garage, you’ll have to choose between taking the DIY route or hiring professionals. So let’s take a cost-benefit approach.
DIY Garage Construction
How to Build Your Own Garage: Step by Step
- Dig the Foundation: Dig a trench for the foundation. Set a base (gravel or concrete).
- Also, prefab kits: Instructions for prefab wood or concrete garages.
- Step Nine: Add Finishing Touches
Tools and Materials Needed:
- Hammer, saw, and drill.
- Concrete or gravel on top as a base.
- Prefab kit or raw materials.
Estimated Costs for DIY:
- Materials: £1,200–£5,000.
- Tools: £100–£300 (if you don’t already own them).
Advantages:
- Labour costs savings (roughly £200–£300/day).
- Allowing you to have control over the project.
Drawbacks:
Time-intensive and requires some major construction skills
Hiring Professionals
- If you aren’t handy, hiring professionals is a solid choice.
- Labour Cost: Average rate 200–300 per day.
Benefits:
- Maintains the building’s safety and adheres to the code.
- Faster and more efficient.
Drawbacks:
Higher overall cost.
UK Planning Permissions and Regulations
Before embarking on your garage project, you’ll want to make sure you’re following local laws. Here are the basics:
Do I Need Planning Permission?
- Planning permission is usually not needed for garages under 30m squared.
- But, you may require permission if the garage is more than 4 meters high, or you are close to a boundary.
How to Navigate the Regulations: Tips
- Check Local Guidelines: See the U.K. government’s advice on its planning portal.
- Consult Local Authorities: Make sure to speak to your council directly to verify requirements.
- Building Codes: Make sure your garage meets safety and construction standards.
How to Save Money When You Build a Garage
Here are some helpful tips for minimizing your expenses in building a garage:
Choose Affordable Materials
- Choose prefabs kits or pole-style garages, rather than brick-and-mortar.
Minimize Foundation Costs
- Instead of a full concrete slab, use gravel or compacted soil.
DIY Construction
- So the self-assembly garage could save thousands of pounds.
Shop Around for Quotes
- Try online platforms to check the prices of many tradespeople.
Examples and Case Studies
Low-Cost Wooden Garage Build
- Materials: Wooden prefab kit (£750), tools (£150)
- Labor: DIY project.
Total Cost: £900.
Prefab Concrete Garage Assembly
- Materials: Concrete panels (£4,000)
- LABOR: PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION (£1,000).
- Total Cost: £5,000.
Common Questions on Building a Garage in the UK
What is the most affordable type of garage to construct?
The cheapest are wooden prefab garages from £150.
How long does it take to construct a garage?
A prefab garage can be set up in about a week.
Can I construct a garage without planning permission?
Yes, small garages below certain dimensions often don’t need permission.
Conclusion
Starting a garage does not have to cost the world in the UK. More than one way to skin a cat: use cheap materials, prefab options, and DIY builds. Be it protecting your car or adding storage, there’s a solution for every budget.
Ready to get started? Let us know what you think in the comments section below!
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