How much does it cost to convert a carport to a garage?
How much does it cost to convert a carport to a garage?
$10,000 – $25,000 average cost to convert a 1-car carport
$20,000 – $40,000 average cost to convert a 2-car carport
Cost to convert a carport to a garage
The average cost to convert a carport to a garage is $25,000, with a typical range of $10,000 to $40,000. However, costs can go as low as $6,000 or as high as $65,000+. The total cost to enclose a carport depends on the size, type, number of existing walls, and the new garage features and finishes.
| Garage size | Average 1-car garage cost | Average 2-car garage cost |
|---|---|---|
| Basic conversion | $10,000 – $20,000 | $20,000 – $25,000 |
| Premium conversion | $20,000 – $25,000+ | $25,000 – $40,000+ |
A basic garage conversion is faster and cheaper, with fewer bells and whistles, and typically includes:
Existing concrete slab
Budget siding
Minimum insulation
No windows
Basic garage door
Minimum electrical
Unfinished interior
A premium garage conversion adds more long-term value to the home but requires a larger upfront investment. This more complex project can include:
Foundation work
Better quality materials
Insulated and finished interior
One or more windows
Upgraded garage door
New plumbing lines
New electrical & lighting
Is it even possible to turn a carport into a garage?
Turning a carport into a garage is possible in many cases. Some areas even have a specific "carport conversion" permit due to the project's popularity. However, your first step is to have a structural engineer evaluate the existing carport structure to ensure it can support the added weight and structural requirements of an enclosed garage.
Depending on the type of carport you're starting with and the end result you're after, sometimes removing the existing structure and building a new garage from the ground up is more cost-effective.
Building a new garage costs $35 to $70 per square foot for an attached garage.
A detached garage costs $50 to $100 per square foot.
Cost to enclose a carport by construction type
The cost to enclose a carport varies based on the materials you use. Your total framing cost depends on the number of walls on the existing carport and if they comply with all necessary building, fire, and safety standards.
| Framing type | Cost per square foot of wall* | Average total cost per wall** |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | $7 – $16 | $800 – $4,600 |
| Concrete | $15 – $30+ | $1,200 – $8,600 |
| Steel | $17 – $32 | $1,400 – $9,200 |
*Includes materials and labor.
Wood
Wood framing costs $7 to $16 per square foot of wall installed and is a common choice when converting a carport attached to a stick-built home with similar framing. Wood offers flexibility in design and easy integration of insulation and drywall.
Concrete
Constructing cinder block or concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls runs $15 to $30+ per square foot. These walls are solid and can withstand harsh weather conditions, making them a popular choice in areas prone to severe storms. For concrete block homes, this also allows for a cohesive look.
Metal
Steel framing averages $17 to $32 per square foot for the materials and labor. Metal carports are typically detached structures. Some metal carport manufacturers sell conversion kits to enclose an existing carport and add a garage door.
Carport-to-garage conversion cost factors
Factors that influence the conversion cost include:
Size: The garage size and design significantly impact the cost. Larger and more complex structures require more materials and labor.
Finish level: Converting to a finished garage costs much more than converting to a no-frills, unfinished garage space for storage only.
Attached vs. detached: Converting an attached carport that is an extension of the home typically costs less than converting a detached carport.
Season: Carport conversions typically cost less during the colder months. However, pouring concrete in cold weather can be challenging, so late fall may be the ideal time for affordability and favorable conditions.
Foundation: Some carports have thinner slabs that slope in one direction and do not have footings under them for exterior walls.
Fixing or upgrading the concrete slab costs $4 to $8 per square foot installed.
Add $6.50 per square foot if the job involves extra footings.
Planning & labor costs
Depending on the features you include, the project may involve several professionals. Labor typically makes up 60% of the total cost when converting a carport.
A structural engineer costs $100 to $220 per hour or 1% to 5% of the total construction cost. They will assess your existing structure and draw up plans that meet all zoning, building, and fire safety laws.
Hiring a remodeling contractor costs $50 to $150 per hour or 10% to 20% of the total construction cost to coordinate and manage the subcontractors, including:
Framing carpenters charge $20 to $60 per hour to construct the walls of the garage.
Electricians charge $50 to $130 per hour on average.
Plumbers charge $75 to $150 per hour.
Permit fees range from $500 to $3,000, depending on the project scope. The contractor often handles the permitting process and includes it in the initial quote.
Walls
The total cost for garage walls depends on the type, finish level, and whether your carport is already partially enclosed with structurally sound walls.
Framing costs $7 to $32 per square foot, depending on the material.
Garage insulation costs $0.50 to $3.00 per square foot installed to help regulate temperature and reduce noise.
Drywalling a garage costs $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot of wall or ceiling surface, depending on the finish.
Doors & windows
Garage door installation costs $550 to $1,800 for the materials and labor, depending on the style and whether it's a single or double. An electric door opener adds $300 to $900 with installation. Entry doors for access and windows for natural light and ventilation cost extra.
Electrical & plumbing
Electrical and plumbing costs depend on the existing carport, size, location, and how you intend to use the space. If you're planning a dedicated workshop or a multi-purpose space, you may need additional power beyond the bare minimum.
Use the electrical cost table below to estimate your costs based on your existing carport and plans:
| Factor | Average cost installed |
|---|---|
| No existing electricity | |
| New garage electrical wiring | $1,200 – $5,200+ |
| Running electric underground to detached garage | $10 to $25 per linear foot |
| Carport with some electrical wiring | |
| GFCI outlet installation | $150 – $350 |
| Ceiling outlet (common in workshops) | $200 – $500 |
| Dedicated circuit / 240V outlet (dryer/large appliances) | $250 – $900 |
| Electrical panel upgrade | $850 – $4,000 |
If you plan to include running water for laundry or other uses, installing new plumbing pipes costs $450 to $1,000+ per fixture. Expect higher costs when converting a detached carport.
Roofing
If the existing carport roof needs replacing, expect to pay $1,100 to $3,600, depending on the size, pitch, and materials. However, if the roof needs major structural repair or reframing, costs will be much higher.
Exterior finishes
Exterior finish costs depend on the materials you choose and the number of unfinished walls. Siding costs $4 to $13 per square foot installed on average. However, the cost can go up to $45 per square foot if you're matching the new walls to an existing home covered in stone or brick.
Extras
Other costs to consider for a carport-to-garage conversion include:
Heating / cooling: Extending the home's HVAC system costs $40 to $65 per linear foot installed, or $10 to $33 per linear foot for exposed ductwork. Ensure your HVAC unit is sized correctly to handle the additional demand, or consider adding a separate unit instead.
Storage: Installing garage cabinets, shelves, or other storage solutions costs $300 to $3,000+.
Security: Enclosing the carport already makes it more secure, but some homeowners opt for extra safety features like exterior floodlights ($50 to $200 per light) or a home security system ($200 to $900 plus monthly monitoring).
What to consider before converting a carport
Before starting a carport-to-garage conversion project, consider the following important factors:
Regulations: Check local zoning, building, fire safety, and HOA requirements before you start planning, as legal restrictions or limitations may impact your design choices.
Carport & slab: Confirm your carport has the structural elements to convert to a garage and that they are in good condition. Verify that the existing slab complies with building code standards for supporting framed walls.
Roof: Confirm the roofing is still in good shape—the exterior materials and the underlying roof structure. Additionally, ensure that the existing roofline will translate well visually to an enclosed garage.
Height: Garage door heights range from 7' to 10' or more. The carport opening needs to be high enough to support the door height and the required interior headroom for the garage to roll up.
Intended use: Understand the electrical, plumbing, and structural requirements for the features you plan to include.
FAQs about carport-to-garage conversions
Do I need a permit to convert a carport to a garage?
Yes, you will need a permit to convert a carport into a garage. This project is considered a significant structural change that requires approval from your local municipality. Permits ensure the work meets building codes and zoning regulations. Failure to obtain permits can result in fines or orders to undo the work.
Does converting a carport to a garage add value?
Converting a carport to a garage can potentially add home value, but the boost is often modest compared to the high cost of the conversion. However, it can still add long-term value by improving functionality and your enjoyment of the home.
Markets vary, so check with a local realtor for the potential value boost in your area.
Is it cheaper to convert an attached or detached carport?
Converting an attached carport into a garage is typically 10% to 15% cheaper than enclosing a detached carport. This is because there are fewer walls to construct for an attached garage, and running utilities is easier when connected to the main home.
Can I convert a carport to a living space?
Yes, it is possible to convert a carport to a living space rather than just an enclosed garage. However, this requires meeting more stringent building codes for living areas, so the costs are usually higher than a basic garage conversion.
Getting estimates from remodeling contractors
Before hiring a remodeling contractor or garage builder near you for your carport-to-garage conversion, be sure to:
Check local building codes (and HOA regulations if applicable) to confirm the conversion is legally allowed and will meet all requirements.
Get at least three estimates with similar details to compare.
Leave room in the budget for issues that may only surface after the project starts.
Hire a licensed, bonded, and insured company experienced in major remodeling work.
Look for positive reviews on HomeGuide and Google and a several-year track record of successful remodeling projects.
Ask for references you can contact from previous similar jobs.
Ask to see a portfolio of past renovation projects if it's not on their website.
Get a contract, warranty, and estimated project timeline in writing.
Don't make the final payment until the work is done and the converted space has passed all required inspections.
Questions to ask a remodeling contractor
Ask these important questions to help you select the most qualified contractor for your needs and budget:
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured for major remodels?
How many projects like this have you completed?
Would it be better to remove the carport and start from scratch to build the garage?
Does the estimate include all labor, materials, permit fees, cleanup, and disposal?
What additional costs should I prepare for once the project starts?
What is your projected timeline for the project?
What permits do I need? Do you handle the permitting process?
How do you handle unexpected damage?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.