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Discover the differences between attached garage and detached garage in this comprehensive guide. Learn how attached garages can save up to 10% on building costs, offer direct home access, and optimize yard space.
Detached garages, on the other hand, provide flexibility for storage or workspace but need more land. This article also covers insurance implications, construction factors, and how each option affects property value.
Whether you’re planning a home renovation or new construction, this guide helps you choose the garage type that fits your needs and budget. See more details about the best and cheapest homeowners insurance.
Don’t let expensive insurance rates hold you back. Enter your ZIP code above and shop for affordable premiums from the top companies.
What You Should Know
- Attached garages save up to 10% and affect insurance rates
- Detached garages offer more space but need extra land
- Both options impact home value and insurance adjustments
Attached Garage vs. Detached Garage Key Comparisons
Attached garages offer convenience with direct access to your home and can save on building costs, while detached garages provide greater flexibility in space and design. Each option impacts not only your home’s aesthetic but also security, noise levels, and overall property value.
| Feature | Attached Garage | Detached Garage |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Connected to the house | Separate from the house |
| Convenience | Direct indoor access | Requires walking outside |
| Cost | Cheaper to build | More expensive to build |
| Space Flexibility | Limited by home’s layout | Flexible in location |
| Home Aesthetic | Matches the house easily | Can be a standalone feature |
| Security | More secure, direct entry | Slightly less secure |
| Noise and Privacy | Can transmit noise to house | Better noise isolation |
| Heating and Cooling | Easier to connect to house HVAC | Requires separate systems |
| Yard Space | Uses less yard space | Takes up more yard space |
| Value Addition | Adds convenience value | Adds value, especially for large spaces |
| Zoning/Permit Complexity | Easier approvals | May require more permits |
Deciding between an attached or detached garage involves considering convenience, cost, and how it fits with your home’s layout and long-term needs.
Both choices have their unique advantages, and your decision should align with your lifestyle and property features. Find more information about the top ways to save money on your homeowners insurance premium.
Pros and Cons of Attached and Detached Garages
What is an attached garage? An attached garage is connected to the main structure of your house by a door, passage, or shared wall. It may have rooms above it or provide a passage from the garage into your kitchen.
What is detached garage? A detached garage is a standalone building with no connection to your house. It can be just a few feet away or across your yard, but it's considered detached if it doesn’t touch your house.
Both types of garages offer benefits and drawbacks. Many depend on the state of your home, its age, and building permit codes in your area.
Pros and Cons of Attached Garages
Attached garages are ideal for homeowners looking to save money and yard space since it’s often easier to add to an existing structure than create a new one on your property. Here are some other pros of attached garages:
- Avoid rain, snow, and other weather when getting to your car.
- Protect your car from extreme weather conditions.
- Save money by using existing walls and utility lines.
- Keep more of your yard available for use.
If you have an older home or live in an area with expensive building permits, an attached garage might prove more difficult or costly to build. Here are some cons of attached garages:
- Potential security risk due to interior door.
- May reduce curb appeal.
- Hard to fit on small or narrow lots in crowded areas.
- Garage emissions can pollute indoor air.
You’ll need to consider your garage needs and the specifications of your property to decide if an attached garage is the right decision for you.
Read more: Protecting Your Property with Home Security Systems
Pros and Cons of Detached Garages
Though detached garages can also protect your car from the elements, many people prefer them as additional storage or workspace away from the main house.
Like attached garages, the costs and benefits of a detached garage will often depend on the characteristics of your property. Here are the pros of detached garages:
- More flexibility in where and how you build it.
- It keeps noisy projects away from the main house.
- Often easier to expand than an attached garage.
- Better security for your home.
- May have cheaper building permits.
However, if you have limited yard space, you might find a detached garage too big for your taste. Here are some other cons of detached garages:
- No protection from the weather when getting to your car.
- Have to build new utility lines when constructing the garage.
- It takes up yard space.
Consider what you’ll be using the garage for when deciding between an attached garage and detached garage. Check your local building codes and any homeowner’s association requirements to ensure your new garage is up to standards.
Attached vs. Detached Garage Insurance
A typical homeowners insurance policy covers both attached and detached garages. They’ll be covered under different parts of your policy, but you won’t have to get additional carport insurance.
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Let your home insurance company know about the addition and whether you are building a detached or attached garage. They'll update the correct part of your policy with your home's new value and adjust your home insurance rates if needed.
Deciding Factors on Attached vs. Detached Garages
Whether you want an attached garage or detached garage depends on the size and location of your property and the local rules and codes in your area. Before committing to a project, think about what you’ll use the garage for and consider the pros and cons.
If you do not have enough time and funds to design your own garage, just look up monthly parking garages online or indoor parking lots near me. After building your new garage, update your homeowner’s insurance policy with your home's new value.
Learn more by checking out our guide: Homeowners Insurance Claim Check Questions
Comparing quotes is integral to finding the best rates possible. Enter your ZIP code below into our free tool today to see what quotes might look like for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is detached garage insurance coverage?
Detached garage insurance coverage typically protects the structure from damage, but confirming if your policy includes coverage for standalone structures is essential. Learn how smart home devices can optimize both attached and detached garages.
Does an attached garage raise insurance?
Yes, an attached garage may raise insurance premiums slightly due to increased home value and potential risks like fire spreading faster.
How do you attach a detached garage?
Attaching a detached garage involves extending the existing structure and connecting it to the house, often requiring permits and professional help. Finding cheaper insurance rates is as easy as entering your ZIP code into our free quote comparison tool below.
What is a detached garage?
A detached garage is a standalone structure, separate from the main home, used to store vehicles or other belongings.
What is detached parking?
Detached parking refers to a parking structure or space located separately from the main building or home. Find out more about how does home improvement projects affect your homeowners insurance policy.
What is an attached garage?
An attached garage is a garage that shares one or more walls with the main home and typically has direct access to the interior.
Is a detached garage covered under homeowners insurance?
Yes, a detached garage is generally covered under homeowners insurance as an "other structure," though coverage limits may apply.
Is an attached garage considered part of the house?
Yes, an attached garage is usually considered part of the house and is covered under the dwelling section of a homeowners insurance policy.
What is the difference between the attached and detached garage resale values?
Attached garages often add more resale value due to convenience and accessibility, while detached garages can offer more design flexibility. Gain further insights by exploring the top questions to ask when buying a house.
What is insurance for sheds and garages?
Insurance for sheds and garages is typically covered under homeowners policies as “other structures,” but it’s important to review coverage limits.
Is an attached garage cheaper than a detached garage?
Yes, an attached garage is generally cheaper to build and insure due to fewer construction materials and lower risk compared to a detached garage.
Is a garage with a breezeway considered attached?
Yes, a garage with a breezeway is typically considered attached, as the breezeway connects the garage to the house.
What is the Wisconsin building code for a detached garage?
The Wisconsin building code for a detached garage outlines regulations on setbacks, size limits, and construction standards, which vary by municipality. Access comprehensive insights on how to choose the best insurance company.
Are carports covered by insurance?
Carports may be covered by insurance under homeowners policies as an "other structure," but specific coverage should be confirmed with your insurer.
What are the detached garage code requirements?
Detached garage code requirements vary by location but typically include rules on foundation, structure size, and setbacks from property lines.
What is living space above garage insurance?
Living space above garage insurance covers the additional risk of having living quarters in or above the garage, often increasing monthly premiums due to added risk.
What is out building insurance?
Out building insurance covers standalone structures such as barns, sheds, or workshops, protecting them from damage under the "other structures" portion of your homeowners policy. Learn the essential things to know about home insurance here.
What is the typical size of a 1 car garage?
The typical size of a 1 car garage is approximately 12 to 16 feet wide and 20 to 24 feet deep, allowing space for one vehicle and some storage.
What is considered a two story house?
A two story house has two levels of living space, typically featuring separate floors for bedrooms and main living areas.
What is the Virginia building code for the detached garage?
The Virginia building code for detached garage structures includes regulations on size, setbacks, and construction standards, which vary by municipality.