Question:
Any thoughts on what to choose in building a garage?
I get both sides..
1. Build a garage from a kit, it's cheaper, it's the same as building from scratch.."
2. Don't buy a kit, they are of lesser value, cheaper wood, weaker trusses, just buy
the parts and build it yourself from scratch. You might pay more but in the end it'll
be worth it.
HELP!!!
My gut tells me to buy from scratch. The word "kit" just leaves me unsure...
Any thoughts?
Answer:
-I helped a friend with a "kit", and so I'll agree with the statement that it's the same
as building from scratch. The kit consisted of the framing (2x4's, headers, trusses),
the sheating (chipboard), a cheap door, window, garage door, shingles, and some nails and
H-clips. Also came with a parts list, but no decent instructions - I especially liked
the part where they whited out the original stud count and updated it from 16" o/c to 24"
o/c framing. Basically all of the stuff was off the warehouse floor, there was nothing
precut or made so that it was easier to assemble than if you went to the store yourself.
I was also VERY cautious on the roof because I felt that the sheathing was undersized to
be on 24" centers, I made sure that I walked on trusses, otherwise I thought that I would
fall through the roof.
Seems like the 'kit' would just meet building codes, and no more. All that you are
getting is most of the core components, without having to figure out the amount of stuff
that you need for them, and don't have to order the trusses. You still have ALL the work
to do same as with scratch. Don't forget that you are also responsible for all of the
finishing - it won't be included in the kit (siding, etc).
So I'd advise on the from scratch method, just a little more work to do upfront to figure
out how much of the basic stuff that you need, and then spend the time ordering it -
other than that it's the same, but you will end up with a better quality structure in the
end, and more proud of it as well.
-Trusses; (kit or local manufactured) must meet code specs to pass inspection.
In most cases, the trusses are cheaper in the kit.
Cheaper wood; all sheathing, decking ply and studs must be graded and stamped
to meet code (kit or local purchase).
The reason the kits often cost less is because its like buying all the
components at bulk rates (including the plans).
The reason one would want to build one from scratch is because one wants
design or strength requirements that exceed the kits (for whatever personal
reason or planned use).
If what you want is a basic no frills garage that meets building code... save
some bucks and get the package or kit (it's not really a kit, but more a
package of everything you need including trusses made to the right size).
Trusses alone can save you enough to make the package/kit worth while and most
places won't let you build trusses on site w/o having an engineer sign off on
the finished product.
