Advice on Garage Size

[jawmaw]

Hi everyone. I have been reading many posts on this forum as I start researching the size of garage I want to build. I am limited to 800 square feet by ordinance but I am applying for a variance to build a 24x40.

If I am unable to get the variance I want to max out the size as close to 800 sq feet. I was thinking about a 20x40 or a 22x36. The overhead door will be on the gable end. I plan on using the front of the garage for parking only and the rear of the garage for a workshop area. Just general stuff no automotive work and no storage along the walls where the cars are parked.

I wanted to get some opinions on the width vs the depth issue.

We are going to eventually attach the garage to the house but not for a couple of years.

Thanks.

 

[Falcon67]

Check your ordinances - of you attach to the house now, you may be exempt from the limits because it's not a detached structure.

20 wide is the bare minimum for getting two decent sized vehicles side by side and opening doors. If one is a truck, then 22'. If both are trucks, then 22~24'.

 

[pattenp]

I just wouldn't do 20'. I think 22' is a lesser evil. I'm a fan of nothing less than 24'.

 

[tyjoja]

I have a 36' wide by 30' deep. with the gable on the door's side/front. something you might think about is buying scissor truss'es, I have 8 1/2' side walls, but easily have a 10' door in the center.

 

[rburke65]

I'd go for the 22' depth.

 

[NUTTSGT]

Hopefully you can get the variance for the 24x40. For good reason, the guys here will tell you to go bigger when it comes to a garage or shop.

Make sure whatever size you put up, fits with the size of the house and lay of the land.

 

[DrBaker]

I would take the 22 wide even if I had to give up a little depth.

 

[Autorotica]

Build whatever size you choose taller so you can put a 2nd floor in it.

Chris

 

[jawmaw]

Thanks for the comments. I will be restricted to 15' high so a second story is not possible.

I wish it was in the budget to attach it as the restrictions would then not apply.