Calculator Use
Use this detached garage cost calculator to estimate the total investment required to build a standalone garage on your property. Whether you are planning a simple one-car shed or a massive multi-car workshop with custom finishes, this tool provides a baseline budget based on industry averages for materials and labor.
To get an accurate estimate, follow these steps:
- Construction Quality
- Select between Economy (basic materials, unfinished interior), Standard (typical siding, finished roof, basic electrical), or Premium (custom brickwork, insulation, windows, and high-end doors).
- Total Square Footage
- Enter the footprint of the building. A standard 1-car garage is typically 240 sq.ft., while a 2-car garage ranges from 400 to 600 sq.ft.
- Labor Adjustment (%)
- Adjust based on your region. High-cost urban areas might require 120-150%, while rural areas with lower contractor rates might be 80-90%.
How It Works
The detached garage cost calculator uses a standardized area-based pricing model. Most residential construction projects are quoted by the square foot, which encompasses the foundation, framing, roofing, and exterior finishing.
Total Cost = (Square Footage × Base Rate × Labor Factor) + Additional Fees
- Base Rate: The cost of raw materials and standard assembly per square foot.
- Labor Factor: A percentage multiplier that accounts for regional differences in contractor wages.
- Additional Fees: One-time costs like building permits (usually $500-$2,000) and utility hookups for electricity or plumbing.
Calculation Example
Example: Building a Standard 2-Car Garage
Imagine you want to build a 20×24 foot garage (480 square feet) using standard materials in a city with average labor costs.
Step-by-step solution:
- Area = 20 × 24 = 480 sq.ft.
- Base Rate (Standard) = $80 per sq.ft.
- Initial Material Cost = 480 × 80 = $38,400
- Labor Adjustment (100%) = $38,400
- Permits and Site Prep = $2,500
- Final Estimated Cost = $40,900
Common Questions
Is it cheaper to build a detached or attached garage?
Generally, a detached garage is more expensive because it requires four complete walls and separate foundation work. An attached garage shares at least one wall with the existing house, which can save on framing and siding costs, though it may require more expensive fire-rated materials for the shared wall.
Does a detached garage increase property value?
Yes, in most markets, adding a detached garage provides a high return on investment (ROI), often between 60% and 80%. It is particularly valuable in regions with harsh winters or for homes that currently lack covered parking.
What is the most expensive part of the build?
The concrete slab and foundation usually represent the largest single expense for a detached garage, often accounting for 15% to 25% of the total budget. Following that, professional labor and specialized materials like automatic overhead doors drive the remaining costs.