If you’re an avid DIYer, you may think about constructing your own custom garage. Why not save the money, right? If you love working with your hands and can follow videos and how-tos, it seems like a no-brainer and for some, it may be but for the majority, hiring a professional could be more practical. 

Here’s why.

You Must Pull Permits

Chances are you’ll need a permit to build a custom garage. Most municipalities require it and buyers may ask for proof that the garage is up to code (or the appraiser may figure it out) when you sell the home. 

Pulling permits often means having professional drawings and/or plans. It also means periodic inspections, which a professional installer understands and can ensure you’ll pass. Taking this task on yourself is time-consuming and often risky.

You Have a Vision but Don't Have the Experience

If you’re building a custom garage, you likely have a vision in mind. Whether you know what it will look like already or you have thoughts of what uses you want for the garage, putting those thoughts on paper take work. A professional can talk to you in a matter of a few minutes and get a grasp on what you want. He can draw out the potential plans and together, you can make changes if it doesn’t exactly meet your visions.

Building a Custom Garage is Time Consuming

If you work full-time, it may take you months to get a custom garage built. A professional installer, on the other hand, could build it in a few days. Think about how building the garage will affect other areas of your life. Will it change where you park your cars and/or store your belongings? Will it be an inconvenience or do you have room for everything and can take the time to build it yourself?

You Need Expensive Tools

Building a custom garage requires more than basic tools such as hammer and nails. Figure out what tools you’ll need and factor the cost into your budget. Do you have the money to buy and own the tools or will you rent? Even renting may get expensive, especially if you work on it in your free time – you’ll have to rent the tools repeatedly, adding to your budget.

You May Need Electrical and Even Plumbing Work

What will your custom garage have in it? Electrical is a must for most garages, but what about plumbing? If you aren’t experienced in either, you’ll need professionals to do the work for you. If you hire garage professionals, you’ll get the entire project done in one fell swoop, possibly saving you money and time.

Unless you’re an avid builder that loves building your own structures at home, lean on the professionals. You’ll have a beautiful garage that will be up to code, and likely save you money and time (which is just as valuable as money).