How to Build a Garage From the Ground Up

A garage can be a valuable part of your home, offering much-needed extra space to store and safeguard your belongings, such as vehicles, machines and work tools. For large items you can’t place inside your home, like vehicles and boats, a garage is the leading option for secure housing that protects against the elements and theft.

Having a garage will save your valuables from the many months of downpours in Portland and Oregon City, which can be damaging and inconvenient. If that’s the case, don’t worry. Our guide shows you how to build a garage from scratch.

Things to Consider Before Building Your Garage

Building a garage can be tedious as it involves investing time and resources. However, it’s a project you can accomplish by yourself and with the help of professionals for aspects that demand specific skills. Before you get started, here are key things to consider.

Garage Placement

Regarding garage placement or location, there are two solutions: freestanding and attached. 

You may be considering building a new structure or expanding one you already have. Either way, you must decide between an attached or detached garage. Both have their advantages. 

While a garage attached to your home comes as part of the package, increasing the property value and offering convenience, a stand-alone garage would be ideal if you want more room for flexibility.

Local Regulations

Construction regulations vary from place to place. You should know the proper guidelines for adding an extension to your home or building a stand-alone structure. Find out what the building and zoning codes are in your municipality to ensure you’re on the right track about what you can and can’t do. You’ll then apply for a building permit. In Portland, these resources are often available on the city’s website.

Building Plans

Unlike a temporary shelter in your compound, a garage is governed by architectural codes and requires proper planning to lay the groundwork. You’ll need to get the building plans from a certified professional. That way, you can be certain the location design and sizing comply with your local codes. 

In the planning phase, you determine your garage’s size to ensure it meets your needs. Since garages are measured based on the number of vehicles they can hold, size will reflect the required dimensions for single-car, double-car and three-car categories.

Contractor

The next step is to select a contractor for the project. If you have previous construction experience and know how to build a garage, you can decide to be the contractor. However, that decision comes with legal responsibility, so working with an expert is best if you are not experienced.

Understandably, doing things yourself can be cost-effective. You’re probably looking to build a garage on a budget. If that’s the case, you can subcontract the more complex parts of the project and handle the straightforward ones. That way, you still get professional support when needed.

Tools and Materials You Need for Construction

If you’re unsure of the materials you need for your project, seek professional guidance and get a complete bill of materials (BOM). 

The following table provides an overview of key tools and materials you’ll likely need to build your garage from scratch:

7 Steps to Building Your Garage

Here are the steps for building a garage.

1. Lay the Foundation

Unless you’re building a pole barn garage, which offers flexibility in terms of foundation, you’ll need to pour a concrete slab for a solid foundation. Laying the foundation is a tedious process that must align with the building plan and local codes. It’s one of the phases in garage construction that homeowners often subcontract to experts.

If you’re laying the foundation yourself, dig the ground to the required depth and dimensions and build the wooden forms. Then, reinforce the base with metal rebar and pour the slab as you level the foundation.

2. Build the Framing

The framing system for your garage can range from 16 to 24 inches on center studs (vertical posts). You’ll use the pressure-treated two-by-four lumber to create both the bottom and top sill plates resting on the vertical posts comprised of king studs, jack studs and cripples. Leave an opening for the window (if applicable) and the opening for the garage door using horizontal headers and saddles for support.

3. Complete the Roof

Install trusses to prepare for the roofing material. If you have the time and experience, you can build and install the trusses yourself. However, it’s easier to work with prefabricated trusses, which are reliable and easy to install. Once they arrive, get help hoisting them and nailing them over the frame.

Roll out sheets of roofing membrane horizontally to create a strong barrier against the elements, then lay the shingles. Begin at the eaves and nail the shingles in overlapping rows. You may want to install a gutter system to prevent rainwater from flowing down garage walls.

4. Install the Sheathing

Install the sheathing to complete the walls. Your sheathing material could be plywood or oriented strand board, which you nail outside the frame and cover in house wrap. Using the siding material of your choice, raise the siding over the sheathing. If you’re building a garage attached to the house, use matching siding for cohesion.

5. Finish the Interior

If you want your garage to be a functional living space, especially if it’s attached to the main house, you’ll need complete interior finishing involving robust walling, plumbing, wiring and insulation. You can avoid all of these if it’s a detached garage or you don’t need the extra living space. 

Run electrical wiring and plumbing lines for a more efficient space. In this stage, bring in professionals if you lack the experience to ensure safety with electrical connections. Insulate the garage if you want it to add square footage to your living space. Common materials you can use include spray foam, fiberglass and double bubble. Finish the interior by installing the drywall and then turn to the floor, which can be anything from tile to concrete with an epoxy layer.

6. Determine Your Garage Door Type

Decide on the garage door style and size you want for your new garage space. You can pick from various options, from modern steel to classic wood doors. This decision is especially important because it informs the rest of the design and building process.

7. Place the Windows and Doors

You can install the window, but handling a garage door yourself is not advisable unless you have professional expertise. Unlike other doors, residential garage doors are heavy and often have a potentially dangerous installation process.

Besides the excessive weight, components like springs can cause serious injuries. For the garage door installation, work with local technicians to ensure safety and efficiency.

Find Garage Door Solutions at Oregon City Garage Door

Building a garage from the ground up is a huge project, but with proper planning, you can achieve it and treasure the journey. We provide a general guide, but steps and materials can vary based on the project size, design and local building codes. To get things right and ensure compliance, work with professionals.

For the garage door phase, Oregon City Garage Door is your reliable garage door installation service provider in the greater Portland area. We offer everything, from new installations to repair and maintenance. Our experienced technicians will analyze your project, walk you through your options and offer a garage door solution that meets your needs. 

Request an estimate to learn more about our garage doors and services!

What Color Should I Paint My Garage Door?

Whether you’re trying to refresh your home’s look or add a splash of personality, we’re here to guide you through the process of choosing the ideal color for your garage door. Oregon City Garage Doors is a trusted and insured garage door dealer in the Oregon City and Portland areas. We have more than 25 years of experience installing and servicing residential garage doors.

What Color to Paint Your Garage Door

We understand that selecting the right color for your garage door is more than just a cosmetic choice — it’s an important decision that can significantly affect your home’s curb appeal.

What Color to Paint a Garage Door on a White House

A white house offers a blank canvas for creative expression. When it comes to selecting a color for your garage door, you have nearly infinite options. Here are some popular choices to consider:

• Classic contrast: For a modern look, black or dark gray garage doors create a striking contrast with a white house.
• Soft neutrals: Beige or taupe are warm and neutral. They add a soft, complementary touch to a white home. Light grey provides a subtle contrast without being too bold.
• Traditional white: If you prefer a seamless, understated appearance, painting your garage door the same shade of white as your home creates a uniform look.
• Bold statements: A deep navy blue or a rich emerald green both provide a refreshing contrast. They’re unique choices that add your personality to your home.

What Color to Paint a Garage Door on a Brick House

Choosing the right color for your garage door on a brick house involves a balance between harmonizing with the brick and adding a stylish touch. Some considerations to help you make the perfect choice:

• Complementary colors: If your brick is in a warm tone — reds or oranges — choose neutral colors like white, cream or light grey. These colors provide a pleasant contrast without clashing with the brick.
• Bold contrast: For a more dramatic look, consider dark colors such as charcoal, navy or black. These colors give your home a modern and sophisticated look.
• Personal preference: Ultimately, your personal taste plays a significant role. Choose a color that you love.

Pros and Cons of Painting Your Garage Door

Here are some of the pros of painting your garage door:

• Increased property value: A well-maintained, stylish garage door can boost your home’s market value.
• Personalization: Painting your garage door allows you to express your style and complement your home’s existing architecture and color scheme.

Of course, painting your garage door also comes with some downsides, including:

• Maintenance required: Painted surfaces may need periodic touch-ups and maintenance to keep them looking fresh and vibrant.
• Color fading: Over time, exposure to sunlight and weather conditions can cause paint to fade, requiring repaints to maintain the desired look.
• Potential for peeling: Poor preparation or low-quality paint can lead to peeling and chipping.

Buy a New Garage Door From Oregon City Garage Door

If you want to avoid painting your garage, buy a new garage door with the color you had in mind. Browse our selection of new garage doors and learn more about our services — we can even haul your old garage door away for you. We’re confident that we have a residential door in our inventory that you will love, and you’re protected by a one-year warranty on all new garage door installations.

A Comprehensive Guide to Attached vs. Detached Garages

Garages are helpful extra spaces for your home to store vehicles, holiday decor, workshop tools and other belongings. Whether you want to add a garage to your current home or are building a new one, you have a couple of options. Detached vs. attached garages have their own benefits, so you can pick the best choice for your home.

The Difference Between Attached and Detached Garages

The primary difference between attached and detached garages is where they are located. Attached garages are connected to your home with a shared wall and direct access into your house. Alternatively, a detached garage is a free-standing, separate building from your house — often located a few feet to several yards away.

Benefits of an Attached Garage

Attaching your garage to your home offers unique advantages, including:

• Convenience: You can conveniently pull your vehicle inside during inclement weather with an attached garage. Storage is also easily accessible in your garage without having to step outdoors. 
• Straightforward insurance: When deciding between an attached vs. detached garage, insurance coverage can help you decide. Attached garages are considered a part of the main dwelling, meaning if your home is insured, so is your garage.
• Less expensive: If budgeting is a concern, attached garages cost less than detached garages since one wall already exists. Building an addition instead of starting from scratch can save you money.

Benefits of a Detached Garage

Detached garages are very different but still offer their own benefits. While they are separate buildings, many people opt for a detached garage because they provide:

• Flexibility: A detached garage allows greater flexibility in size and location. You can customize the size of your garage to fit more cars or be a workshop, and you can even leave room to add on later if you wish.
• Increased security: Without direct entry into your home, your family and valuables are safe from intruders. Detached garages also reduce the risk of potential fires reaching your home.
• Less noise: A separate building will reduce the amount of noise inside your house if your garage doubles as a woodworking or automobile shop. This benefit can be a selling point for your home as well. 

Consider Your Garage Door Options at Oregon City Garage Door

If you’re still deciding, Oregon City Garage Door professionals can help. We will walk you through your options and can customize any garage door to fit your needs. Contact us for a free estimate today.

Best Type of Garage Door for a Pole Barn Garage

With its wide open spaces and high ceilings, a pole barn design is one of the most popular detached garage styles. While planning your garage build, every detail must be thought out — including the right garage door for the right garage.

Let’s discuss some garage door options for your pole barn garage. 

Pole Barn Garage vs. Stick-Built Garage

In the world of detached garages, two styles reign supreme — pole barn and stick-built garages. While you may be more familiar with stick-built construction methods, many homeowners prefer the ease and durability of pole barn garages.

Stick-built garages have a concrete foundation with a wood-framed structure built piece by piece on top of the foundation. This type of construction allows for more walls and customization options. 

Pole barns were originally used in agriculture. This type of garage uses post-frame construction methods, with durable wooden poles driven deep into the ground. These posts serve as the main framing elements for the garage. Pole barn garages are quick, durable builds that tend to be more affordable.

What Is the Best Type of Garage Door for a Pole Barn Garage?

There are two main types of pole barn doors — sliding and overhead. While sliding doors are the more traditional option for agricultural pole barn constructions, an overhead door offers more benefits for detached garages: 

• Automated: Overhead pole barn garage doors can be used with automatic door openers. Most people don’t want to jump out of their car to pull in or out of their garage, so automation is a huge benefit.
• Sealed: Most sliding doors are not sealed, which can allow dirt, moisture, bugs and other critters inside. Overhead doors are sealed to protect the interior.
• Insulated: Insulation means you can better control temperatures, allowing you to utilize this space for more than storage. Keep your car, equipment and anything else you own in your garage safe from extreme temperatures
• Cost: While overhead doors tend to cost more than sliding pole barn doors, this price tag comes with a lot of benefits, including modern features and often a manufacturer’s warranty. 

Need Help Finding a Garage Door for Your Pole Barn Garage?

If you need help finding the right door for your pole barn garage, turn to the experts at Oregon City Garage Door. We can discuss your ideas to help you find a perfect option. We also offer free estimates on new garage door installations. Request a quote online or give us a call at 503-664-9982.

How to Remove Rust From a Garage Door

Rust takes a toll on metal garage doors. This destructive force can weaken your garage door over time and produce cracks or holes. Rust can also detract from the door’s appearance and reduce your property’s curb appeal.

Garage door rust spreads rapidly, so it’s imperative to address it as soon as you notice it. Painting over rust spots without removing them first only provides a temporary fix because it won’t deter the underlying rust formation. However, it’s possible to remove it before it consumes the door’s surface.

How to Repair Garage Door Rust

If you catch rust on your garage door early, you may be able to remove it and repair the damage in a few steps:

1. Cleaning: Fill a bucket with warm water and dish detergent. With the door closed, use a rag and a large sponge to clean off as much dirt and debris as possible.
2. Scrubbing: Fill a second bucket with white vinegar and soak a rag in it for several minutes. Alternate rubbing the rust spots with a steel wood pad and the rag until you’ve removed all the rust.
3. Sanding: Use a small piece of sandpaper to sand the rust-damaged areas on the door.
4. Priming: Apply a zinc-chromate primer to the affected areas with a paintbrush. This preventive step can stop future rust formation.
5. Painting: Allow the primer coating to dry completely before painting the affected areas with a color that coordinates with your door.

When to Get Professional Assistance

If rust has advanced too far for you to remove it yourself, you may need to contact a professional garage door company. Extreme rust may require a panel replacement. At Oregon City Garage Door, our experienced technicians can perform this common repair task and have your door looking like new.

We can also help if rust has completely overtaken your garage door and you need a replacement. We offer a wide assortment of products from Clopay^®, North America’s leading garage door manufacturer. We’ll help you select the best door for your needs and budget and perform a fast, seamless installation.

Contact Us to Learn More

At Oregon City Garage Door, we’ve been providing premium garage door products and services in Portland and the surrounding areas since 1992. If you need to remove rust from a garage door, our experienced team is ready to help. Contact us for additional information or to schedule a convenient service appointment today.