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PREMIER CONSTRUCTION OF DES MOINES

2-Car vs. 3-Car Custom Garages: Which One Is Right for Your Home?

Deciding between building a two-car or a three-car garage depends on more than just the number of cars you currently have. Beyond parking, your garage handles everything from long-term storage and workshop space to future family growth. 

The key is asking the right questions before you build to ensure you design a space that fits your lifestyle. It will make it easier for you to design your garage properly.

Compare How You’ll Use the Space

Before choosing a garage size, think beyond the number of cars. Ask yourself:

  • Will you store lawn equipment, bikes, or seasonal items in the garage?
  • Do you want room for a workbench or hobby area?
  • Do you need extra clearance for larger vehicles?
  • Could your parking or storage needs change in the next few years?
  • How much space can the garage use without disrupting the rest of your property?

A two-car garage could be the best option when parking is the most important consideration, and there is a small amount of space to work with. The three-car garage is definitely something to consider when you need more space.

When a 2-Car Garage May Be Enough

A two-car garage is suitable for a family owning one to two cars who does not require much storage space. The garage offers protection for their cars and some space for things like bicycles and garden equipment.

A two-bay garage is also a nice balance between functionality and space for most people. They may find it easy to accommodate such a garage within the available space because of its size.

With this option, storage can easily fill up space very quickly. Shelves, a work table, athletic equipment, and gardening tools can all take up valuable space that could be used for parking cars. Before making the decision to go for this design, think about what needs to be stored in your garage. 

Premier Construction’s two-car garage project in Des Moines shows how a custom design can work with the existing property, including its landscape.

When to Consider a 3-Car Garage

A three-car garage will offer greater options for households that own several cars, have many visitors, or need indoor storage space for machinery. The additional garage space could also act as a space to store a workbench, bicycles, lawn equipment, or any hobby items without reducing the accessibility of the other parking spaces.

Although you may not have three cars at the moment, additional space could come in handy as circumstances change. You will have more space to accommodate more family members or ensure that storage and parking areas are separated.

The bigger garage will certainly take up more space on the property. The size and position of this structure will need to fit well with the design of your house, driveway, and yard. This will make it fit into your property seamlessly.

Think About Storage and Future Plans

Garage spaces can quickly become cluttered, so having enough space for storage is key. This can be achieved by ensuring cabinets, wall storage, hanging shelves, and a working space are incorporated for organization. Placement is also important in that the locations of doors, windows, and storage will determine your ease of movement in the garage.

If you are considering a larger or more customized layout, Premier Construction builds custom garages designed around your home and lifestyle. Options may include a detached garage, a garage addition, or a design with attic trusses and space above.

Plan the Garage Around Your Home

Your garage should meet your needs and fit the look of your home. Consider how the exterior materials, roofline, windows, and garage door style will work together. A carriage-style door may complement a traditional home, while a clean, simple design can suit a more modern property.

It’s also helpful to think about whether the garage will be attached or detached. An attached garage can connect more naturally with the home’s existing layout, while a detached garage offers more flexibility in its placement and design. Premier Construction offers design services to help homeowners plan these details before construction begins and choose a garage size and style that works for the property.

Choose the Size That Fits Your Des Moines Home

Two-car garages can provide good parking and storage for your family. Three-car garages give you more options as needs change over time. It is all about the size of your lot and your personal preferences.

With more than 20 years of construction experience in the Des Moines area, Premier Construction has designed and built a range of custom garages, from attached additions to detached and two-story garages with space for multiple vehicles or living areas above.

 Contact Premier Construction to discuss your plans and schedule a free consultation.