[maxm2820]

I am planning a garage conversion. It's very simple, no plumbing, minor electrical, mostly its just framing and drywall, creating a little ceiling (maybe...I may leave it..I haven't decided yet) and a little decoration. I have done all of that before. I have not applied for permits yet or anything, because I am still in the planning stages of it.

I am trying to plan and price out how to do the exterior wall, though, and I am realizing the gaps in my knowledge!! Help!!

I know that after I tear out the garage doors and equipment that I am going to have to set up a timber frame...but really from there, I dont know. I just want vinyl siding on the outside.

What types of materials should I use for the exterior wall? tyvek, sheathing? I have read about them online, but I am missing something still...please give me some pointers!! I live in a humid climate with mild winters.

I would greatly appreciate some pointers and tips and a very quick run down of the process and order its done in! Thank you!!!!

~Megan

 

[Ron6519]

The garage conversion will need a number of windows to satisfy building code.
This seems to be a project that you have little or no experience with. Try using You Tube for videos of the closing in process. I would expect you'd put a window in this area, so you'd need to know how to frame an opening.
Quite frankly, unless you have a friend or relative who's had some experience in this, I'd hire out the exterior work to someone who knows what he's doing and you could do the interior work.
Once you do the research you can decide what comfort level you have with the exterior framing and water proofing.
Ron

 

[Daniel Holzman]

You may want to start by purchasing a book on framing. Your project is likely to be complicated because most garages are built on simple slabs, often with no footers, and that may well be unacceptable for living space. You need to start by discussing this project with your building inspector. They can help you understand the issues, which will include foundation, egress, windows, heating and cooling, electrical etc. Even though you may think you do not want plumbing at this time, if this is going to be living space, code may require some form of heating.

Eventually you are going to need a dimensioned plan showing all required details. That is where a framing book, and possibly an architectural design book, would help.

 

[maxm2820]

Thanks! I cant believe I didnt think of getting a book!!!

And I did check youtube, but most of the posts are just pictures of people doing the work, not so much instruction..which makes sense, it has to happen fast. I also checked DIYnetwork.com which was surprisingly less helpful then I was hopping!

As for framing a window, I have done that too. the lumber aspect of the job is easy for me. It's only the other half of the wall...the important side.....

Anyway, thank you!! I was really hoping to do this by my self outside of a building inspector...oh well, by the sound of it, it is over my head! sad!!

Thank you!!!

 

[Ron6519]

Thanks! I cant believe I didnt think of getting a book!!!

And I did check youtube, but most of the posts are just pictures of people doing the work, not so much instruction..which makes sense, it has to happen fast. I also checked DIYnetwork.com which was surprisingly less helpful then I was hopping!

As for framing a window, I have done that too. the lumber aspect of the job is easy for me. It's only the other half of the wall...the important side.....

Anyway, thank you!! I was really hoping to do this by my self outside of a building inspector...oh well, by the sound of it, it is over my head! sad!!

Thank you!!!

In many places you need to get a building permit to do the scope work you've stated. There's more involved in this transition then you're aware of.
Ron

 

[Willie T]

Fear not. This group is a little different than some of the other DIY sites. You will never be left in the lurch here. Most everyone here is not only very knowledgeable and experienced, but we love to hang in there with new builders till the last coat of paint is dry.

 

[badsanta]

Dont forget the A/C heat, update electricity,plugs and lights. Most garages are not insulated. You may want to add some.