ADU Above Garage in Sacramento, CA

Care for efficient use of space? If you need additional living space but you think your site is too small to fit an accessory dwelling unit, consider an above-garage ADU. This layout will let you both save yard space and retain the existing garage functionality.

Accessory dwelling units are multipurpose secondary units situated on the same land as your main house. An above-garage ADU project offers ample space without compromising living areas, outdoor zones, or space for storage.

Let’s discover how to add extra space to your property with an efficient ADU above your garage!

Above-Garage ADU Perks

Most commonly, homeowners use a detached garage to create an ADU on its roof. Such a construction style allows you to build up rather than out, as well as provide standalone living quarters at a respectful distance from your main house.

Here are the key features of an ADU above your garage:

• Intelligent solution

When building an ADU above a garage, you select an ADU plan that promotes the preservation of the backyard space. The elevated position not only provides a scenic view from the windows but also enhances natural light intake and increases privacy for the residents of the ADU.

• Solitude and convenient access

Climbing the stairs to a separate small house may be quite worth it if you end up having your own secluded shelter. This can work as extra space for you and your family or as an enticing offer for potential tenants who appreciate the cozy charm of the upper floor.

• Various customization options

Individuality in design is what many property owners strive for. Stylish ADUs above garages are something you don’t see on every lot, making them unique additions to your main house. ADU builders usually offer plenty of ADU plan options that can utilize an existing structure, but an ADU above the garage offers to combine the functionality of a garage with the versatility of an ADU.

In conclusion, the above-garage ADU plans present a great opportunity for homeowners with smaller lots to expand their accommodation options by utilizing vertical space rather than horizontal. Engage an expert team to carry out an ADU project that caters to your individual needs!

Above-Garage ADU Challenges

It may seem that building an ADU above a garage is cheaper or easier than building a detached ADU in your backyard. However, reality is a bit more complicated.

Firstly, if you want to create a unit on top of the existing garage, additional structural support posts are required. These efforts to make the construction structurally sound may affect the final cost. Also, since garages are often less insulated than the main residence, your ADU may mandate several layers of insulation and soundproofing (because a garage below produces noise). Moreover, such an ADU needs plumbing and electrical wiring. Besides, transporting materials and equipment to the second-story ADU may require extra effort.

So, what is the solution? It’s hiring a skilled team of structural engineers, professional builders, and experts in more narrow specializations that will carry out the construction work with due diligence and with respect to building codes and local regulations.

Above-Garage ADU Project

So, how do you transform a garage into a two-story building with habitable space on the second floor? In this complex process, you’ll need a lot of calculations, from budgeting to engineering and architectural plans, to make sure your ADU plan matches the garage plans.

Unlike some other ADUs, the above-garage ADU needs a more elaborate layout conceptualization and a preliminary assessment of the existing structure. This means you have to know if your garage will be able to support the additional weight and make modifications by reinforcing the frame if that’s not the case. Extra work and materials increase the construction cost, but it is not worth saving for your own safety.

The ADU floor plans you can choose to build on top of the garage vary depending on your preferences. You can pick an open-floor plan ADU or an ADU with one or two bedrooms if your garage is big enough. There are compact studio loft ADUs for those who prefer minimalism or even two-story ADUs in some regions with high allowances.

Other stages repeat similar stages of other ADUs: permitting, framing, installing a new roof, windows, insulation, HVAC installation, electrical wiring, plumbing, flooring, and other exterior and interior finishes. In the end, you arrange furniture in each room, decorate it, and use your cozy unit for any purpose you deem right!

ADU Above a Garage Uses

Building an ADU above a garage enables homeowners to create a versatile structure in their backyard. This project entails many benefits, both to the community and to the homeowners themselves. This way, an ADU serves as a means to diversify housing options in your region, generate more affordable accommodations, and promote efficient land use.

For homeowners, an ADU above the garage brings the following advantages:

• Expanding the existing space

Adding the second floor to your garage is a wise solution for those with limited backyard areas. Using vertical space on the garage roof helps to maximize the comfort and functionality of your property while leaving exterior spaces intact.

• Creating a source of passive income

A rental unit that a tenant can access through the stairs in the first-floor garage is not the first thing that comes to mind, but it’s a secluded getaway that is detached from the primary residence. It may boast a cozy balcony, modern interior design, and large windows, adding to its aesthetic appeal.

• Office space

ADU plans differ from one another, with some focusing on providing expensive bedrooms and living areas for ultimate relaxation, while others offer more amenities for productive office work. We can customize your project for remote work, creating a functional workspace undisturbed by the bustling life in the main house.

• Granny flat use

A new structure above the garage may serve as a place to accommodate your elderly relatives. Equipped with all conveniences, an ADU has the same rooms as the main residence: a bathroom, a bedroom, a kitchen, and a living room. By housing your loved ones in your nearest vicinity, you ensure their safety and well-being.

• Separate guest house use

Arranging an independent living space for guest stays can alleviate homeowners’ stress and house-life disruptions caused by interference from other people, as well as enhance the overall hosting experience.

• Enhancing property value

Are you planning to sell your property in the future? Then, building an ADU may be a great strategic investment for you. ADUs, in addition to the main house, appear to be valuable assets that can allure potential buyers seeking supplementary living space or rental income.

All in all, an ADU above your garage is a way to make the most out of the least. Not only can you leave enough backyard areas for outdoor activities, but you may also enjoy the flexibility of your unit without sacrificing your property footprint.

Frequently Asked Questions — FAQ

Can an ADU be built on top of a garage in Sacramento, California?

Sure, in Sacramento, California, it is generally possible to build an ADU above your garage. Given that you abide by building code requirements and local rules, you may choose this ADU configuration as Sacramento proactively promotes ADU development to address housing affordability issues. Just don’t forget about the size, height, setbacks, and other requirements when you commence your project.

How much does it cost to add an ADU on top of the garage?

The cost of ADU construction varies depending on numerous factors. For instance, a two-bedroom ADU and a loft studio ADU have different prices due to the different amounts of materials used and the different amounts of labor needed for the project. The amount of structural work also plays a big role in determining the end price. Thus, a homeowner may need to pay something from $130,000 to $225,000 for a turnkey ADU above the garage.

What is a house above a garage called?

A house with a garage is an accessory dwelling unit, also known as a granny flat, in-law suite, garden cottage, carriage house, or casita, depending on the region. This type of dwelling offers an increase in available living space and extra flexibility in its use while making use of the land you already own, its utilities, and its amenities.

Do you need to have extra parking for an ADU on top of a garage?

Since you already have a garage to park your car, it’s usually unnecessary to have another parking space for both the ADU and your main house. However, some jurisdictions in California may have different parking requirements, so it’s advisable to consult with your builder or local authorities in your city.

What’s better: an ADU above the garage or a detached ADU?

If your property has enough room for a detached ADU, you may not want to bother with the structural modifications that an ADU above a garage requires. However, an ADU above the garage provides you with more decluttered and usable space in your yard that you can use for gardening, outdoor activities, or just for aesthetic considerations.