As the owner of a large property with various vehicles, you must wonder if it is the time to invest in a new garage building. And, after a lot of research and talking with your family and pals, you have decided to invest in a 3 car garage. But have you decided on the material you should opt for? The material of your garage building can affect its longevity and overall structural strength.
First, you must decide on a spot on your lot where you want to install your garage. I prefer an area that has good drainage, is leveled, and is free of any obstructions like large trees. Also, it is helpful when you choose a spot on your lot that is away from high-traffic areas for installing steel garages. Now, you can determine the size and design of your three car metal garage. Below, we have listed some common sizes that people generally prefer.
Common Sizes Of 3 Car Metal Garage
The average size of a 3 car garage is 24 ft. wide x 36 ft. long x 9 ft. high. However, the exact size varies with the type and model of the vehicle. We would suggest that you go for a side entry three car garage as it will decrease the cost. Some of the most sold sizes are:
- 22 ft. wide x 32 ft. long
- 24 ft. wide x 34 ft. long
- 24 ft. wide x 40 ft. long
- 30 ft. wide x 46 ft. long
- 40 ft. wide x 40 ft. long
The height can vary between 9 ft. to 14 ft. Now that we are done with the structure comes the construction part. Have a look at the following steps to know more about it.
Step By Step Process To Build A Durable Three Car Metal Garage
STEP 1: Foundation
Since three-car steel garages are supposed to hold tons of load from the vehicles, it is necessary that you pour a concrete foundation that is at least 4 inches thick (but can be 8 inches thick as well) that can support the structural load.
Other foundations are level ground, dirt and gravel, and asphalt. However, with these, you won’t be able to use your garage for anything else other than parking cars.
STEP 2: Anchoring
For areas with frequent high speed winds and seismic activities, installing more anchors to your structure is mandatory. This will hold the entire structure firmly to the ground. You can place the anchor at an interval of 6 inches.
STEP 3: Frames Installation
After you are done with the base, the installation parts come next. You can attach the frame of the building to a concrete slab with the help of anchors. Once you are done, you can add extra roof braces to secure the whole structure.
Industry standards are 14 gauge thickness of steel; however, for areas with extreme weather conditions, you can opt for 12 gauge thickness of steel to make the building more sturdy.
STEP 4: Wall & Roof Panels Installation
Now, you can begin installing roof and side wall panels. You can also install more braces in between the legs and roof bow to increase structural integrity. If you have a vertical roofing style, it is necessary to install a ridge cap.
The industry standard for panels is 26 gauge. But others, such as 26 gauge for residential or light commercial applications, are also sold. The thickness of the panel ranges from 22, 24, 26, and 29, being the thinnest gauge panel.
STEP 5: Door & Windows
Finally, you can place garage doors for the vehicle’s entry and walk-in door. You can also add window frames and panels here. You can use three single doors or combine two doors. Generally, the height is 7 to 8 ft., while the width depends on the car’s type and model and can be between 8 to 16 ft.
STEP 6: Trim & Finishing
A trim is not necessary, but it binds the whole structure and gives a finished look. You can opt for a color that matches the roof and wall panels to make it look seamless, or you can opt for a complementary color.
In addition, you can add a gutter with a downspout if you live in rainy regions of the US.
STEP 7: Insulator
An insulator will help control condensation (heat transfer) and moisture buildup. This will prohibit rust, pests, and humidity. This helps prolong the longevity of steel garages.
If You Want Your Garage To Be Livable, You Can Add
STEP 8: Drywall
You can add drywall to convert a part of your garage into an office or art studio. Then you can paint or wallpaper.
STEP 9: Floor Finishing & Furniture
To add life to your concrete floor, you can add texture and stain it to resemble a wooden floor but with high strength. After that, you can add floating shelves, racks, a foldable desk, and a comfortable chair.
Prevent Your 3 Car Garage From Rusting
- Examine your garage once a year: Overall, once a year inspection is crucial to ensure everything is working fine.
- Clean it: You can wash your garage with a pressure washer (at the lowest setting) to remove any stains or dust.
- Address any rusting promptly: Fixing minor rust issues before they become a big deal reduces cost and prolongs the life of your garage.
Additions Features To Steel Garages
- Lights (aesthetic purpose/ interior lighting)
- Paint (light to reflect sun/ dark to absorb heat)
- External Landscape (greenery/plantation/shrubs)
- Façade (faux stone/wood/brick)
- Interior furniture or storage racks
Ensure that your 3 car garage is safe. This is especially true when the garage is used as an office or storage space.
To increase safety, you can add:
- Entry alarms at opening like windows and doors
- Strong and durable locks
- A robust door
- Interior reinforcement
- Light sensors and cameras
Building A Durable Three Car Metal Garage Was Never So Easy
Three car metal garages are not very demanding and require minimal maintenance time. It holds all your essential items while you rest in the comfort of your warm mattress. However, before starting any construction project, it is mandatory to go through all legal procedures, such as complying with local zoning laws and local building codes and obtaining a permit. Steel garages are meant to last and have strong resilience to elements like water, snow, hail, and storms. You won’t regret the steel deal.
Not only does it add value to your property, but it also provides a secure and safe place to keep your storage space. With careful planning and excellent workmanship, this three car metal garage will stand the test of time. Building your garage will be a challenging yet rewarding experience for you.