Custom Built Garages Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose Preferred Garages, Inc?
Preferred Garages, Inc. has been building garages since 1990 with a focus on offering quality and customer satisfaction above all else. We work together with you to ensure we create the garage or addition you want by completing our comprehensive analysis process that allows our experts to understand and bring your vision to life. We offer unlimited customization options to complete your custom-built garage and offer services in Denver, Douglas County, Adams County, Arapahoe County, Jefferson County, Larimer County, Castle Rock, Monument, and all surrounding areas.
Do you charge for estimates and how do I schedule an estimate?
We do not charge for estimates! You can call us at 720-270-2201 or info@preferredgarages.com to schedule a FREE estimate with no obligation.
Do you give estimates over the phone without seeing my property?
We do not give estimates over the phone however; we often can give you a ball park or rough idea on cost if you are just starting to think about your garage project. There are many factors that go into the cost of your garage. Things to keep in mind would be local building codes, HOA requirements, how level your lot is, what size garage you want, how much additional concrete you will need, the type of siding you choose, the type of garage doors you choose, etc.
I’m looking for a very basic garage, what will I get?
A basic garage consists of the following:
- Monolithic Foundation
- T-1-11 Siding
- 8’ Walls
- Wood Frame Construction
- Asphalt Shingles
- Seamless Gutters
- 1- 16X7 Overhead Door
- 1- 36″ Service Door
- 1- 3×3 Window
Additional costs could be: grading/excavation, additional concrete, siding upgrades, electrical packages, garage door openers, additional windows, paint, etc…
Do you offer a warranty?
Yes, we offer a warranty! Our standard warranty is one year plus all the manufacturer backed warranties depending on the products we use, ie: Owens Corning shingles minimum 30 year, LP 25 year, minimum 25 year, Plygem or Mastic Gutters, lifetime warranty, etc…
Do you offer a warranty on your concrete work?
While we guarantee our work, we do not offer a warranty on concrete work. Concrete manufacturers and installers do not guarantee a product like concrete. No matter how hard we try or how well we install concrete, the earth is a powerful force. Concrete will eventually crack but we don’t know when or where. We do install expansion joints as recommended to minimize the effects of concrete movement and cracking.
Do you build custom garages?
Everything we build is custom. You let us know what you want and we will build it for you – any shape, any size.
What size garage should I build?
The size of the garage you should build will be determined by what the city/county allows you to build. It is best to check with the building department of your city/county as well as your HOA. Once you know what size you can build then determine your budget. Be sure to take into consideration the size of your vehicles and how much additional storage space you want or need.
Do I need a permit and how long does it take to get a permit?
Yes, a permit is always required but you don’t need to worry, Preferred Garages, Inc. will obtain your permit for you before we start your project. Every municipality is different. Some building departments issues permits the same day. Most take 1-3 weeks, we have seen some take up to 5 or 6 months. Timelines for building permits could depend on the type of project you want to build and if it requires a variance.
Does my contract price include the permit costs?
Most contractors estimate the cost and charge you more based on their best guess. We don’t do that. Each building department is different and we don’t want to overcharge you for your permit costs. We list the permits as an additional cost and you will only pay what the permit fee is (not an over-charged amount). However, we can give you an estimate as to how much it will cost so you can figure that into your budget.
How do I know what my setbacks are?
Each municipality is different so you can check with your local building department to see what the setback requirements are. Often setbacks can be different from your HOA to the building department.
Where can I find out about the zoning and building requirements for my new garage?
Most city/county zoning requirements can be found on the internet. You can do a search by typing in “city zoning requirements” and the name of your city or county. If you prefer, you can always contact your local building department by phone and ask to speak with someone regarding zoning requirements.
What is a variance?
A variance is when a homeowner wants to build something that the city, based on their guidelines, will not approve. We do several variances a year. Variance approval is based on the quality of the reasons why you need the building department to change the code given your unique circumstance.
Can I build my garage anywhere on my property?
Building departments and HOA’s determine how close you can be to your property lines, easements and other structures. They also dictate how big or tall you can build.
What areas do you service?
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What is the difference between a monolithic foundation and spread footing?
The difference between a monolithic foundation and spread footing is the monolithic foundation is one pour for the footing and the floor where are spread footings are three pours; one for the foundation wall and one for the floor. A monolithic foundation is designed to float and move all together based on soil expansion and contraction, but a spread foundation is designed not to move while allowing the floor to float and move independently based on soil expansion and contraction. Spread footings typically cost more than monolithic foundations.
How long will it take to build my garage?
How long it will take to build you garage varies depending on city/county, HOA, if your garage contract includes a demo, is in the historic district, and weather. Typically, it takes 6-8 weeks for easier ones and 8-12 weeks for the more complex. Please note, this timeline is always in addition to the permit process. This is only from the time that we break ground on your garage.
When can I start using my garage?
We ask that you do not put anything in your garage until the final inspection. Some building inspectors will not do any inspections if the building is occupied or being used. This will only delay the completion of your garage. In addition, if the building is being used or has any personal items, this may affect any work remaining to be completed.
Can you match the shingles and siding to my house?
Yes, we can match the shingles and siding to your house. If the product is available in the current market, we can get it. That means siding, stone, stucco, bick, shingles, gutters, doors, etc. If the product is no longer available or discontinued you may have to make a decision based on what is available that you think matches best.
Will my garage come with a garage door opener?
Basic garages do not include a garage door opener, however, we offer many different options that you can choose from for an additional cost.
What other services do you provide?
The other services we provide are demolitions, any type of concrete work, framing, roofing, gutters, doors, electrical, painting etc. We have a complete list of the other services we provide and the details of each service that you can review as well.
Do you offer financing? Do you accept credit cards?
Financing rates for projects like this are pretty high, mostly in the 10-15% range. We are finding much better rates when homeowners do home equity lines of credit or refinance. We do not accept credit cards. Historically we have found the fees involved with credit card transactions seem to be more than the rewards or point benefit.