Building your own Oak Framed Garage

If you’re looking to protect your vehicles, make a workshop, or create extra storage space for your property, you should definitely consider building an oak framed garage. Oak framed garages are not only functional and look great; they also increase the value of your property! Remember, many areas require permits or licences before erecting a new building, so be sure to check with local authorities before beginning your project. It can take years (and considerable money) to settle legal matters when it comes to property regulations, so it’s worth it to double check you’re following the local rules.  

You have a few options when planning to build an oak framed garage (or carport). Depending on your budget, you can purchase a ready to assemble kit, hire a company to build one for you, or buy the plans and build it yourself. Some companies that specialize in oak framed buildings will even create a custom plan from your specifications and needs.

There are also many styles of oak framed garages; here are a few of the more popular single story options:

From left to right: Standard supply, rear outshot, barn hipped roof, barn hipped roof with rear outshot, hipped roof, and hipped roof with side outshot. 

The dimensions and plans for these particular buildings can be found at http://www.orlestoneoak.co.uk/frames/oak_garage.html. 

You may be asking yourself, why oak instead of other softwood timber garages? Oak is a solid and beautiful hardwood, adding a traditional look to your building. It is known for its resistance to rotting and infestation by woodworms and other pests, and does not need any special treatments. It is durable, environmentally friendly (unlike pressure treated wood), and requires little to no maintenance. Many oak frame buildings last hundreds of years!

 

Example photo of a finished oak framed garage.

 It is important to plan for a firm foundation when constructing any building, and oak framed garages are no exception. In most cases, a simple reinforced concrete slab is all that is necessary. In some situations, for example where soil has a lower load bearing capacity, the building may require a wide strip foundation with a brick base. This is something a professional should be able to judge, and plan for accordingly.

Oak framed garage being built with a concrete slab foundation. 

 

Insulation is another key consideration. If you live in an area with a cold winter, and you plan to use your garage for office space or a home gym, insulation and heating may be needed. While oak is a good insulator by itself, it may not retain enough heat for your specific uses. If your garage has windows, you may want to use window covering films or sheets to prevent drafts. These are available at most hardware or building supplies stores and can be applied during the colder months then taken off in spring. Windows themselves are an excellent source of heat if they are facing the sun, and also provide free lighting.  

During the building process you should also think about storage features such as shelving, places to hang tools such as shovels or rakes, or a place to stack firewood if you use wood heat for your home. These of course can be added at any time with kits available from retailers, however many companies can include these in to the initial designs to maximize space and avoid clutter. They will also look better if constructed from the same material as the building itself.

I hope this post was helpful and good luck building your very own oak framed garage!

Photo credit:

http://www.orlestoneoak.co.uk
http://www.timber-oak-garages.co.uk
http://www.radnortimbercompany.co.uk