A well-designed double garage can do more than just store vehicles; it’s a smart investment that enhances your property’s value and functionality. In South Africa, where secure parking and extra storage are highly sought after, adding a double garage can make your home more appealing to potential buyers. Here’s how to maximise the value of your double garage project while considering local preferences and conditions.
Enhance Curb Appeal with a Thoughtful Design
First impressions matter, and a stylish double garage can significantly improve your home’s curb appeal. opt for a design that complements your home’s architecture, whether it’s a modern aesthetic with clean lines and neutral tones or a classic style with brick finishes.
For added charm, consider incorporating features like wooden garage doors or landscaping around the driveway. These small touches can make a big difference, especially in competitive housing markets.
Blending your Garage Door with your Homes Style
Before you go out to buy your double garage door, we also need to make an informed decision about the style you’re going for, as your homes architecture will significantly affect what garage door looks best on your home.
Let’s consider the following homes which have matched the style of the home to the style of their garage doors. The first home with a slightly older look composed largely of wooden panels on the exterior blends perfectly into the wooden garage doors chosen for the house.
While the next home displays more modern design features in its architecture. In this case this home would benefit more from a steel or aluminium garage door to match the more modern look of the home rather than a wooden garage door.
While this is not to say you can’t have a wooden garage door on a more modern home its important to consider the styling options that would suite your home best before committing to a specific garage door.
Maximise Storage and Functionality
In many South African homes, storage is a premium feature. A double garage not only accommodates two vehicles but also provides extra space for tools, outdoor equipment, or even a small workshop.
To make the most of this space, you can include built-in shelving, overhead storage racks, or a designated area for bicycles. This added functionality can appeal to families and individuals who value organised living spaces.
Design for South African Weather Conditions
South Africa’s diverse climate makes it essential to tailor your garage to local conditions. In coastal areas like Durban, it’s generally more important prioritise corrosion-resistant materials to combat humidity. This can be achieved with aluminium garage doors which are more resistant to the effects of corrosion than most materials on the market.
In colder regions such as the Drakensberg, consider adding insulation after the door is installed to keep the space warm during winter months. Wooden garage doors particularly are known to be excellent at insulating the inside of the home against outdoor temperatures.
In hot climates like those in Gauteng, selecting the right garage door material is essential for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and ensuring long-term durability. Among aluminium, wood, and steel garage doors, each has its own strengths, but wood stands out as the best option for hot weather due to its natural insulating properties.
Prioritise Security Features
Safety is a major concern for South African homeowners. Enhance your garage with robust security measures, such as automated doors, reinforced locks, an alarm system or surveillance cameras can further reassure potential buyers that their property will be secure. These upgrades not only add value but also reflect an understanding of the local market’s priorities.
We have previously talked about the security of garage doors in terms of each material and the pros and cons of each in the past, but steel stands as the most secure material, if security is high on your list of considerations. Able to stand up to more blunt force than other materials and even fire steel garage doors truly live up to their reputation of being one of the strongest options on the market.
Why a Double Garage Is a Smart Investment
According to property experts, homes with garages often sell faster and at higher prices compared to those without. In South Africa, where parking space and storage are limited in many neighbourhoods, a double garage offers both convenience and peace of mind. It’s a feature that not only enhances daily living but also increases resale value, making it a sound investment.
Create Additional Living or Functional Space
A double garage doesn’t have to be just for cars. Consider designing a multi-functional space that adds versatility to your property. Garages with a loft, for example, can serve as a guest room, home office, or even a rental unit. This flexibility is especially attractive in urban areas where additional living space is in high demand.
Stick to Your Budget and Plan Smartly
While it’s tempting to go all out with luxury finishes, it’s essential to stay within a reasonable budget to ensure a good return on investment. Work with experienced contractors familiar with South African building standards to avoid unnecessary expenses. It’s also wise to research the property values in your neighbourhood to ensure your investment aligns with the local market.
Ensure Compliance with Local Building Regulations
Building a double garage involves more than just drawing up plans and hiring a builder. South African municipalities have strict building codes and zoning laws, so it’s crucial to ensure your project complies with these regulations. Hiring a professional to assist with the installation of your double garage door can save you time and prevent costly mistakes down the line.
Luckily you need not look far for a professional installation of your new garage door as Roos Garage Doors offers installations, repairs and servicing options to make your next home improvement project as seamless as possible.