How Many Sqft Is A Two Car Garage? Find Out Now!

Are you curious about the size of a two-car garage? Many people want to know how many square feet are necessary to accommodate two cars comfortably without feeling crowded or cramped. It’s an essential piece of information if you’re planning to build or buy a house with a two-car garage.

A two-car garage is not only for car storage but also serves as a workspace, a storage room, and even a recreational area. The key to making use of it entirely depends on its size. If the size is too small or too big, it can affect the overall functionality of the space.

Knowing the dimensions required for a two-car garage will help in planning, designing, and constructing your dream garage. You must learn the important calculations that go into determining the appropriate square footage of your garage to meet your needs and preferences.

“Whether you have classic cars needing full restoration work or just personal vehicles that need some upgrades, knowing the right measurements for a two-car garage is crucial.” -Unknown

In this article, we’ll help you determine the ideal size for a two-car garage based on several factors such as vehicle type, parking angles, clearance requirements, and more. Keep reading to find out now!

Standard Two Car Garage Size

A two-car garage is a standard feature in most modern homes. But what really makes up the measurement of a two-car garage? The size and dimensions are important factors that depend on several variables such as the number of cars you own or how much storage space you need.

Understanding the Average Dimensions of a Two Car Garage

The average size of a two-car garage can range from 20×20 feet to 24×24 feet depending on the needs of the owner, but an ideal dimension for a two-car garage should be around 22×20 feet with a height of approximately eight feet. This provides enough room for two vehicles and additional space for storage and other activities like DIY projects or hobbies.

It’s vital to note that these measurements may vary based on the type of car parked inside; larger cars such as SUVs trucks will require more space while smaller sedans will leave some extra space to move around. When deciding on the size of your garage, it’s essential to consider factors such as the sizes of your current and future vehicles.

Why the Standard Size of a Two Car Garage is Important

The size of your two-car garage impacts not only the practical aspect but also its financial value. A properly sized garage increases the value of your property as it adds functional space for parking and storage. While purchasing or building a home, it’s important to ensure that your garage accommodates your family’s storage requirements, workbench, tools storage, lawn equipment, among others.

In addition, having a well-sized garage will save costs by considering any upgrade required for larger vehicles when you decide to purchase a new one. It saves an individual cost related to constructing a bigger garage again or renovating the earlier one with extensions.

“A garage should be 20% to 30% bigger than the square footage of your home. However, many people find that a two-car garage dimensions measure between the perfect range you need for storing vehicles and outdoor gear,” – Bob Villa

Understanding the standard size of a two-car garage is crucial to ensuring you have enough space for storage, parking, and additional activities. It’s vital to consider important factors such as the number of cars you own, the sizes of these cars, and any other foreseeable needs when constructing or purchasing a new home with a garage.

Factors That Affect the Size of a Two Car Garage

Vehicle Size and Type

The size and type of vehicles that will be parked inside the garage influences how many square feet are needed. A standard-sized sedan usually measures approximately 14-16 feet in length, while an SUV or pickup truck can measure up to 20 feet in length.

Consider the height and width of the vehicle as well, especially if one intends to park two cars side by side. The minimum width of a two-car garage is typically around 18 feet, but accommodating larger vehicles may require additional space (up to 24 feet wide).

“It’s important to know the dimensions of your cars when planning your two-car garage; this allows you to ensure they’ll fit comfortably without being cramped.” -San Francisco Gate

Storage Needs and Space Utilization

In addition to parking cars, most homeowners want their garage to provide ample storage space for tools, lawn equipment, sports gear, and more. Factor in the amount of storage space needed and consider built-in cabinets, shelving, hanging racks, and other storage solutions.

To optimize space, design the garage with organizational systems such as zones for workstations, car maintenance areas, and vertical storage spaces. Avoid cluttering the garage with unnecessary items. Consider keeping seasonal or infrequently used items stored away or using ceiling-mounted racks for added space.

“The key to optimizing storage space in any garage is to make use of walls, under-stair regions, corners, and overhead areas. Garages tend to have plenty of unused real estate.” -Bob Vila

Workshop or Hobby Space Requirements

If the garage will also be used as a workshop or hobby space, additional square footage will be needed. The size of each workstation should be considered when calculating the total required area. For example, a woodworking bench typically requires around 4 feet x 6 feet while an automotive workstation may require 10 feet x 20 feet.

Consider factors such as tool storage needs, ventilation requirements, electrical outlets, and floor space for working on larger projects or storing heavy equipment. A garage with hobby or workshop space may need to be at least 24 feet wide by 24 feet deep to accommodate all the necessary elements.

“When planning your garage, ensure there is sufficient room for your hobbies; this ensures comfortable movement in space that allows you to work smoothly.” -This Old House

In conclusion, the number of square feet required for a two-car garage depends heavily upon vehicle size and type, storage needs and space utilization, and workshop or hobby space requirements. Before building or renovating a garage, careful consideration of these factors can help determine the most appropriate size and facilitate optimal use of space.

Recommended Size for a Two Car Garage

A two-car garage is a valuable asset to any home. Not only does it provide storage space, but it also shelters the family vehicles from outside weather conditions. However, when planning to build or renovate your garage, one of the most significant decisions you have to make is the size of your parking area.

The recommended size for a two-car garage varies depending on several factors, such as the number and length of the vehicles, extra desired work or storage space, and overall budget. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what dimensions are ideal for a two-car garage, the minimum and maximum sizes available, crucial factors to consider, ways to determine the correct size, and tips for maximizing available space.

The Minimum and Maximum Size for a Two-Car Garage

The International Residential Code (IRC) recommends that garages be built with a minimum size of 20 feet by 20 feet to fit two standard cars comfortably. Alternatively, this can read as a single-car garage that has extra space to use for storage or additional functions. The average car measures between 14 and 18 feet in length, so a 20×20 space is adequate for two regular sized vehicles parked side by side.

While it might be enough to fit them physically, maneuvering inside a tight garage can be challenging, especially if you have larger cars, SUVs, or trucks. You should always try to leave extra room to prevent collisions or scratches while parking, opening doors, or moving around. It will ease any added stress or frustration each time you park your vehicle(s).

If you have sufficient land and resources, building a more expansive garage may come in handy as well. By using innovative design solutions and improving function, a larger structure adds versatility to your home’s overall layout. Possible bonus room conversions include a workshop, storage loft, game room, or creative space for the artistic members of the family.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Size for Your Two Car Garage

Picking the best garage size is more than just fitting cars; it also involves accounting for other personal and functional needs. Before settling on a specific unit, here are some crucial considerations to contemplate:

• Your Family’s Vehicle Types: Be realistic about what kind of vehicle you drive, especially if you own a larger car, truck, or SUV that requires extra clearance for turning, parking, and opening doors.
• Additional Storage: While your two-car garage serves as an excellent place to store vehicles, it’s also a great location for storing bicycles, lawnmowers, tools, and equipment. Plan accordingly now, so you won’t have to revamp later with potential costs or inconveniences.
• Space Functionality: Determine how you plan to use the extra remaining space in your garage. Do you wish to park only one vehicle and then reserve space for other functions? Or would you prefer not only to accommodate another car but leave enough space for additional storage or workbench?
• Budget: Don’t forget to take into account all related expenses when building, renovating, or purchasing a new structure. These could include building permits, materials, labor costs, etc. Budgeting appropriately will ensure satisfaction with the final product without putting yourself in debt.

How to Determine the Ideal Size for Your Two Car Garage

Determining an appropriate four-walled parking structure does not need to be a complicated process. You most likely know upfront whether you intend to construct a standard double-car garage or one with additional storage. To calculate the ideal size for your two-car garage, follow these simple steps:

• Step One: Take length measurements of all vehicles that will typically be parked inside and add up each measurement.
• Step Two: Measure the width or depth of the vehicle and multiply it by two (the number of cars to fit in).
• Step Three: Add together the total sum from step one and step two.
• Step Four: Add approximately 6-10 feet to the final sum to compensate for minor mistakes in calculations and allow space for walking and working comfortably.

“When considering how wide is too wide, always remember that wider is better. Try not to go smaller than 22×20 dimensions; this option gives homeowners enough room to open their car doors reasonably.” – Carport Central

Tips for Maximizing Space in Your Two Car Garage

After determining the proper garage size, you still need to make sure maximum use of every square foot of the interior structure. From creative design ideas to strategic organizational solutions to potential upgrades, check out these helpful tips to efficiently store all of your extra possessions:

• Install Wall Shelves: Utilize vertical space by hanging shelves on walls to free up any floor space. Store items such as seasonal decorations, sports equipment, tools, and even shoes.
• Make Use of Overhead Storage: Purchase overhead sturdy ceiling bins to allow for long-term storage of infrequently used items while maintaining ample available ground space beneath when needed
• Incorporate Custom Cabinets: With built-in cabinets, everything has a specific place designated just for storage purposes. Consider a variety of styles that differ in height to store items such as brooms, rakes, or shovels.
• Design with Functionality: Try configuring the garage dimensions so that vehicles can park one behind another and consider swivel-mounted mirrors positioned at convenient angles for viewing into tight spots without making contact.

If you’re considering building a two-car garage, it’s essential to think beyond just fitting your vehicles within four walls. By acknowledging the factors mentioned above and following these practical steps and tips, you can have maximum storage space while still having room to accommodate your cars comfortably.

How to Measure the Square Footage of Your Two Car Garage

Knowing how many square feet your two car garage occupies can help you plan and make the most of your space. Measuring the square footage is a simple process that you can do with just a few tools.

Calculating the Area of a Rectangular Garage

If your two car garage is rectangular in shape, measuring its area is as easy as multiplying the length by the width. Here are the steps:

• Measure the Length: Take a tape measure and measure the distance between the back wall and the front wall at the longest point of the garage. Be sure to hold the tape measure straight and avoid any curves or corners.
• Measure the Width: Next, measure the distance between the right wall and the left wall at the widest point of the garage using the same technique used for measuring the length.
• Multiply the Length by the Width: Once you have these measurements, multiply the length by the width to get the total square footage of your garage. For instance, if your garage measures 24 feet long by 20 feet wide, then it has 480 square feet (24 x 20 = 480).

Calculating the Area of an Irregularly Shaped Garage

Measuring the area of an irregularly shaped two car garage is not always as straightforward compared to a rectangular one. Here are a few different steps to follow depending on your garage’s shape:

• Splitting Up Sections: If your garage consists of multiple sections, such as a workshop or storage area, measure each section separately before adding them together. Use the method outlined above to find the area of each rectangle or square, and then add them together to find the total area of your garage.
• Using Trigonometry: For triangular or angled sections of your garage, take measurements from each side at their widest points. Then, use trigonometric functions such as sine, cosine, and tangent to calculate the area of each section before adding them up to get the overall square footage.
• Breaking Down Curves: If you have a curve in your two car garage, break it down into smaller sections with straight lines so that you can measure its length and width more easily. Find the area of each section using the rectangular method before adding them up to obtain the total square footage.

The square footage of your two car garage is an essential factor when planning upgrades, organizing its contents, or transforming it into a functional living space. Knowing how to calculate this area may seem daunting at first, but it’s relatively simple once you get started.

“The most important investment you can make is in your own abilities.” – Warren Buffet

Popular Two Car Garage Design Ideas

Traditional Detached Garage Designs

When designing a garage, one of the first considerations is whether it will be detached or attached to the home. Traditional detached garages are popular for homeowners who want more space and parking options while maintaining the aesthetic of their home. These designs often have a separate building footprint, which can range in size from 20×20 ft to 24×30 ft.

The standard size for a two-car garage is typically between 500-600 square feet. This provides enough room to park two vehicles side by side with some additional storage space. However, if you’re looking for something larger, many traditional garage plans offer optional add-ons like lofts and second stories that can increase overall living space to as much as 1,200 sqft.

“Having an oversized garage gives homeowners extra space that can serve multiple purposes such as storage or even a workspace.” -Brian Marlowe, Owner of Garage Living

Attached Garage Designs

Another popular design option is an attached garage. Attached garages provide convenience and easy access to the indoors during harsh weather conditions. The most common placement is located at the front, side, or rear of a house, depending on the layout and property lines. The typical size of an attached two-car garage ranges from 400 to 650 square feet.

If you prefer an asymmetrical look for your property, you can select ‘offset’ garage designs where bays do not line up symmetrically with the house and rooflines. You can also choose breezeways that connect two buildings to create an elegant transition and covered outdoor space.

“One of the biggest advantages of having an attached garage is that it’s heated by your home’s central system.” -Garage Door Depot

Garage Designs with Extra Storage Space

If you’re looking for a garage that provides ample storage space, it’s essential to choose the right design. Traditional and attached garages can be designed with additional features like shelving, loft space above the parking area, cabinets, or built-in workbenches equipped with drawers and tool racks.

The addition of organization systems in your garage is perfect for homeowners who do not want to pay extra rental fees for an off-site storage facility. When planning out your designs make sure to include features such as overhead storage and vertical slat wall mounting and use color-coded bins so items are easy to find and access whenever needed.

“Having proper storage solutions in your garage will take care of clutter control and add years of life to your possessions.” -Brett Deutscher, Owner of Garage Solutions

Garage Designs with Workshop Areas

If you’re an avid DIY enthusiast or simply need a dedicated workspace for hobbies around your home, consider making use of any unused spaces in your two-car garage by creating a workshop. A well-planned workshop can help boost productivity levels while maintaining safe working conditions.

Sets of benches and cabinets, sturdy overhead shelves, and organizational racks provide plenty of storage options for all types of hardware tools. Make sure to install sufficient electrical outlets around the workspace area and proper lighting fixtures where natural light may not reach. The larger size of a two-car garage also gives enough room for large-scale projects and even vehicles restoration without worrying about damaging indoor furniture.

“A hobbyist needs a designated spot to pursue their passion, whether it’s restoring classic cars, wood working, or tinkering with electronics.” -Eric Litwiller, Operations Manager for Blackhawk Hardware & Supply

There are many popular design ideas for two-car garages that homeowners can choose from. Detached or attached options offer different types of conveniences and aesthetic choices while choosing extra storage space or workshop areas will cater to specific needs and preferences. The size of a garage should blend with the rest of the property’s look but also offer enough functions to accommodate multiple purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions