While garages are a common part of many properties, they aren’t automatically included with every residential property. Some homeowners have carports for parking one or two of their vehicles, but they don’t have the same benefits as enclosed garages.

If you own a home that doesn’t have a garage, but have considered investing in having one built, here are some reasons why it may be beneficial for you and your property.

Protection From The Elements

While carports and garages are both designed to help protect vehicles from the elements, an enclosed garage does a better job of keeping out dirt, moisture, and even snow. Most carports (or car shelters) have two or three sides enclosed. Depending on the direction of the wind during a rain or snowstorm, you could end up having a lot of snow or rain on or around your vehicle.

Not only do enclosed garages help to protect vehicles from the elements, but they can also be beneficial when storing a motorcycle during the winter months or other equipment such as lawnmowers and snowblowers that aren’t designed to be left out for extended periods.

Protecting your vehicles from the elements can help them stay running better and more efficiently, and may even reduce the risk of car or motorcycle accidents due to mechanical issues.

Security

Aside from being a convenient and nice place to park your cars, motorcycles, and store other equipment, an enclosed garage offers security. You’re more likely to become a victim of vandalism or theft if your car, motorcycle, and other property is outdoors and easy to access, but a garage keeps valuables out of sight.

If you’re planning on building a garage, it’s best to consider an automatic garage door or a door that locks to ensure safety.

Multi-Purpose Space

Enclosed garages don’t have to be just for parking motorcycles and vehicles. Depending on the size of your garage, you may have extra space to make it a multi-purpose space. Many people use their garages as a workshop or for a place to work on fixing motorcycles and other equipment, particularly if the garage is heated and there is good lighting.

Garages can also be a great storage option for seasonal items or if you simply don’t have adequate storage space in your home.

Increase The Value of Your Property

Even if you have no plan to sell your home in the near future, having an enclosed garage (rather than a car shelter) can increase the value of your property.

Some real estate experts reveal that property owners who add a garage to their property may receive a return of about 65 percent of their initial upfront investment on a garage and if you live on the West Coast, it may even be higher.

Most garages require very little maintenance, so it’s often a welcome addition to anyone who is interested in buying a home; for many home buyers, a garage is a “must have.”