how much to build a garage

Building a garage is one of the most practical upgrades a homeowner can undertake offering secure parking, storage, workshop space, or the foundation for a future home office or conversion. Whether you are replacing an old prefabricated structure, adding a new detached garage, or extending your property with an attached garage, understanding the real cost of construction in the UK is essential. Garage builds vary widely in price because of differences in size, foundations, structure, materials, roofing, insulation, and the level of finish. This guide explains how much it costs to build a garage in the UK, what drives the price up or down, and how different design choices affect your budget and long term value.

The aim is to give you a clear, homeowner friendly breakdown of real world figures, planning considerations, and practical advice based on current UK construction standards. By the end you will understand typical costs, what to expect from builders, and how to balance affordability with durability.

Understanding what a garage build includes

A garage build normally includes far more than the walls and roof. The final cost reflects numerous elements including:

• Groundworks
• Foundations
• Drainage
• Brickwork or framing
• Roof structure and covering
• Doors and windows
• Flooring and concrete slab
• Insulation if required
• Electrical work
• Finishes such as rendering or cladding

Adding or removing any of these features affects the total cost significantly. A garage that is intended purely for parking will cost less than a garage intended as a workshop or future conversion because higher performance materials and insulation are needed for habitable standards.

Typical UK costs for building a garage

Although prices vary regionally there are consistent cost patterns across the UK market. The following sections outline the realistic ranges for different garage types.

Cost of a single garage

A single garage typically measures between 2.7 and 3 metres in width with a length of 5 to 5.5 metres. A standard single garage usually costs:

• £20,000 to £30,000 for a basic single garage with a flat roof and standard materials
• £30,000 to £40,000 for a higher specification single garage with a pitched roof and upgraded finishes
• £40,000 to £50,000 if the garage is attached to the house and requires matching bricks, matching roof tiles, and more structural integration

Costs increase further if the garage includes insulation, plasterboard, heating, a higher rated floor slab, or electrics beyond simple lighting.

Cost of a double garage

A double garage is much larger often 5.5 to 6 metres wide and at least 5.5 to 6 metres long. A double garage typically costs:

• £35,000 to £50,000 for a standard double garage with a flat roof
• £50,000 to £65,000 for a pitched roof with matching tiles and improved finishes
• £65,000 to £80,000+ for a high specification double garage with insulation, electrics, and architectural detailing

Per square metre pricing

Many builders estimate costs per square metre. A garage usually costs:

• £1,200 to £1,600 per m² for a simple garage
• £1,600 to £2,000 per m² for a pitched roof or higher specification build
• £2,000 to £2,500+ per m² for premium materials, complex access, or integrated design with the existing home

These figures provide a consistent benchmark regardless of size.

How foundations affect the price

Groundworks often account for a large portion of the cost especially if the soil conditions are poor. Garage foundations can vary from simple trench fill concrete to reinforced slabs depending on site conditions.

Factors that increase foundation costs

• Clay or unstable ground
• Sites requiring excavation or removal of spoil
• Sloping driveways needing levelling
• Waterlogged ground needing drainage
• Tree roots or previous structures
• Restricted access for diggers

If ground conditions are straightforward you will pay the lower end of the scale. Complex sites can add £3,000 to £10,000 to the total price.

How structure type affects cost

The choice between brick, block, timber frame, or prefab concrete affects price and durability.

Brick and block construction

This is the most common method for UK garages because it is strong, long lasting, and allowed under most planning rules. Brick and block garages usually cost more than timber due to the labour required.

• Best for long term durability
• Can match the main house
• Higher cost but higher value

Timber frame garages

Timber frame garages are quicker to build and can be more affordable.

• Cost effective
• Good insulation potential
• Requires regular maintenance
• May not suit all locations or planning requirements

Prefabricated concrete garages

These are manufactured off site and assembled quickly.

• Lower labour cost
• Fast installation
• Limited aesthetic appeal
• Less suitable for future conversion
• Lower thermal performance

Roof type and cost

Roof structure makes a significant difference to cost.

Flat roofs

The cheapest option for a new garage.

• Lower cost
• Modern appearance
• Requires proper drainage
• Shorter lifespan unless high quality product installed

A simple flat roof adds around £3,000 to £7,000 depending on materials.

Pitched roofs

A pitched roof costs more because of the timber structure and tiles.

• Traditional look
• Longer lifespan
• Strong resale value
• Higher cost
• Matches existing property better

A pitched roof can add £8,000 to £15,000 depending on size.

Garage door choices and costs

The type of garage door has a major effect on functionality and final cost.

Up and over doors

• Most affordable
• Simple mechanism
• Cost around £450 to £1,000 installed

Sectional garage doors

• Insulated
• Smooth operation
• Cost around £1,200 to £2,500 for single
• £1,800 to £3,500 for double

Roller garage doors

• Space saving
• Good insulation
• Cost around £900 to £2,000

High security versions cost more but offer better long term value.

Windows, doors, and insulation costs

Adding windows or a side personnel door increases cost but improves usability.

Windows

• Standard UPVC window: £300 to £600
• Higher specification or aluminium: £600 to £1,200

Personnel doors

• Basic steel or composite: £300 to £700
• High security: £700 to £1,200

Insulation

If you want to use the garage as a workshop or future conversion insulation is essential.

• Insulating walls: £1,000 to £2,000
• Insulating ceiling: £500 to £1,500
• Insulating floor: £800 to £2,000

Insulation also improves resale value because the garage feels more versatile.

Electrical work costs

Basic electrics include lighting and a few sockets. Costs typically range from £500 to £1,500 depending on specification. A workshop or gym may require:

• Additional circuits
• Heating
• Electric vehicle charging
• Smart lighting
• CCTV

These increase the total cost significantly.

Garage flooring cost

The concrete floor slab is included in the main build cost but optional upgrades add cost.

• Polished concrete: £1,000 to £3,000
• Epoxy resin coating: £500 to £1,500
• Interlocking tiles: £300 to £1,200

Planning permission and legal considerations

Many garages fall under permitted development although not all.

You may need planning permission if:

• The garage is forward of the main elevation
• The roof is above 4 metres
• The garage covers more than half of the garden
• The property is listed
• The home is in a conservation area
• Permitted development rights have been removed

Even when planning permission is not required you must follow building regulations for structural stability, fire safety, electrics, and drainage.

Planning permission typically costs a few hundred pounds plus drawing fees if required.

Real world UK garage build examples

Example 1: Basic single garage

A straightforward single garage with block walls, flat roof, and a simple up and over door might cost around £25,000. This build suits homeowners needing secure parking and storage without insulation or electrics beyond lighting.

Example 2: Single garage with pitched roof

If the garage is attached to the house and must match bricks and tiles the cost may reach £35,000 to £45,000. This type of garage has better kerb appeal and long term durability.

Example 3: Double garage with pitched roof

This kind of build often costs £55,000 to £70,000 depending on finishes. It suits larger properties with space for multiple vehicles or workshop areas.

Example 4: Premium double garage with workshop

A premium double garage with insulation, electrics, roof storage, plastered interior, and a sectional door can exceed £75,000. This is often chosen when the garage doubles as a workspace or future conversion.

Example 5: Timber frame single garage

A timber single garage may cost £18,000 to £30,000 depending on specification. This is a cost effective option for rural properties or those seeking a more traditional look.

Factors that significantly increase cost

• Restricted site access
• Poor ground conditions
• Matching bricks or tiles to an existing home
• Insulation to habitable standards
• Heating and plumbing
• Increased structural steel
• Double height or extra wide designs
• Fire separation requirements for integral garages

Being aware of these factors helps prevent budget surprises.

How to reduce the cost of building a garage

• Choose a flat roof instead of a pitched roof
• Use blockwork rather than facing brick
• Choose an up and over door instead of a sectional door
• Reduce window openings
• Keep the footprint modest
• Avoid unnecessary insulation unless future conversion is planned
• Choose standard materials instead of architectural details
• Prepare the site yourself if safe to do so

These changes can reduce the build price significantly without compromising basic functionality.

Long term value of building a garage

A well built garage increases home value especially in areas with limited parking or where security is a concern. A high quality detached or attached garage can add:

• 5 to 15 percent to the property value depending on design and location

Garages also improve utility because they serve as:

• Workshops
• Storage spaces
• Home gym areas
• Future conversion opportunities

A well designed garage adds flexibility that appeals to buyers.

Conclusion

Understanding how much to build a garage in the UK requires looking at ground conditions, structure type, materials, roof design, access, planning requirements, and the level of finish. A single garage typically costs between £20,000 and £40,000 while a double garage can cost between £40,000 and £70,000 or more depending on specification. Premium garages with high grade finishes, insulation, and integrated design can exceed these figures. By planning carefully and choosing appropriate materials you can build a garage that is durable, functional, and cost effective while adding long term value to your home.