How to Find Reliable Home Improvement Companies Near Me
Work-from-home and hybrid work arrangements are more the norm now than the exception. Homeowners are struggling to find additional space for one or more home offices per household. However, not everyone has a living area they are able or willing to convert into a dedicated home office. Savvy homeowners turn to reliable home improvement companies in VA to convert underutilized garages into work zones.
But before we delve into why and how to get experts to help you with your garage makeover, let’s understand the benefits of turning it into a home office.
Why Should You Convert Your Garage into a Home Office?
There are many advantages of using the additional space in your garage by converting it into a home office.
- It is affordable – A garage to a home office conversion is a relatively more affordable solution than adding a new room to your house. After all, you already have the four walls, a roof over your head, and maybe some electrical outlets.
- It is convenient – It is a faster process requiring less construction work as you already have the framework. All that is left is to finish the interior and convert it to living space. Also, it’s easier to get the necessary licenses and approvals to change the interiors of your existing structure rather than changing the footprint of your home.
- It adds real estate value – With the increase in demand for a home office, having one increases the total living area as well as the real estate value of your home.
- It adds to the curb appeal – A well-designed garage renovation adds further value to your home. Attractive garage door(s), a fresh coat of paint, comfortable seating, and creating a work-friendly layout, enhance the aesthetic value of your façade, adding to your home’s curb appeal.
Steps Involved in a Successful Garage-to-Home Office Conversion
Though converting your garage is easier and more affordable than building a new edifice, there are some steps you need to take to get the job done right. These include:
- Permitting and Approval – Before going ahead with your garage conversion, you need approval from your local county or city building and inspections office to ensure it meets local building and zoning codes. A reputable home improvement company can help you get approvals for all the necessary compliance requirements.
- Budgeting and Time Estimate – You need to have a budget set aside for your garage renovation. Always keep some extra amount for any contingencies. Here, the experience and skills of a home improvement professional will come in handy. Professionals who have completed garage conversions for other homeowners in your area can give you an estimate of what your costs will be and by when you can expect the work to be done.
- A Good Design Layout – Where will you keep your desk? Will you keep files and important documents in your new office space and if yes, where will you place the storage cabinets? What about the printer and scanner? How about a tea/coffee station as a convenient addition to your new home office? These are just a few questions for you to consider or that an expert designer can help you decide while designing the layout of the space.
- Drywall and Insulation – Insulating your garage will make it more energy efficient by controlling the temperature. Adding drywall will give you a finished look and feel.
- Heating, Venting, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) – Apart from insulation, you need to control the temperature of the garage just like you do for the rest of the house. This means you will need a good air conditioning and heating system. If your house has a forced-air system, extending the duct from the rest of the house to the garage makes sense. However, you can also install a ductless system or a smaller, wall-mounted system that is different from the rest of the house.
- Windows and Doors – While converting your garage to a home office, you may need to look at the positioning of your windows if you have any. Or maybe you can add new ones to bring in additional sunlight. You may also want to enhance the existing garage door for security, soundproofing, and adding insulation. Adding sound panels is another way to soundproof your garage to enjoy a quiet space for work.
- Adding light fixtures and electrical outlets – You require ample light to work. It is extremely important to add appropriate light fixtures in the right areas in your garage. You may also need electrical outlets to plug in your computer, printer, scanner, an electric kettle, coffeemaker, and any other equipment that you require to conduct your work smoothly.
- Floors – You may consider converting your concrete floor to one that is wooden, carpeted, or tiled. There are also many garage floor paint options that can add a finished look without the expense of adding flooring.
Finding a Reliable Home Improvement Company for your Garage to Home Office Conversion
What are the things that you should consider when hiring your team of experts that meet your standards and expectations? Here’s a list –
- How long have they been in the business? While interviewing candidates, look at how long they have been doing this work. A reputable company that has been around for many years is more likely to have a good work ethic, follow best practices, and be committed to seeing your project through rather than abandoning the project before completion.
- Are they licensed and insured? This mandates that they follow safe and ethical practices to keep their licensing intact.
- Will they help you get your building and zoning permits? You don’t want to navigate local regulations, codes, and paperwork without expert assistance!
- Do they have a contract in place that outlines their and your commitment and investment in the project?
- Can they provide a list of clients who can vouch for them? Client testimonials can help decide which company to choose as your home improvement expert.
- Will they provide a dedicated team of experts to work with you? Will you have a single point of contact to communicate with you and answer all your questions?
- Will they do a meticulous walk-through and an inspection of your completed project before handing it over to you?
- Do they provide any after-sales service? Sometimes, minor touch-ups or adjustments can be required after a job is complete due to normal house movement and settling. Will you be able to contact your home improvement company in VA to come in and do this for you promptly?
The Trusted Choice for Converting your Garage into a Home Office
Any home improvement remodeling or renovation requires a dedicated team of professionals that is committed and knows what they are doing. You need an expert with knowledge, experience, and integrity to see it through to the end.
At Gibson’s Home Services, we take client satisfaction extremely seriously. We specialize in home improvement services which include garage and home office remodeling, as well as kitchen, deck, and basement remodeling amongst others. Once you contact us, our talented and friendly team of experts will set up a time to meet you and understand your vision. We will then give you a free quote as the first step toward turning your dream home office into a reality.
For more information, you can contact us online or give us a call at 540-364-1200 for a free estimate or consultation on our garage remodeling services.
