Garages haven't evolved much in the past few decades, but they have remained a secure solution for storing vehicles. However, many garage doors haven't kept up with the size and width of modern cars. More homeowners are opting to remove the central brick pillar and install a large garage door to open more space. Here are some of the considerations for this garage solution. 

Why Invest in Transforming Your Garage? 

There are a few reasons why it's worth transforming your garage entry. Garage doors haven't changed much in size during the last 30 years or more, going back to when the average person was driving a Ford Anglia or a Mini (the original version.) Now the standard car has increased in size with a flared body, which makes it difficult to park the car without potential damage to the vehicle. 

Confined Spaces Within the Garage 

Even the most experienced drivers would find parking a modern car in a traditional garage difficult with the tight space between the vehicle and the wall, making it more difficult to exit the car, especially for families or people with decreased mobility, where accessibility should be a priority. Also, tight garages can cause frequent scratches and even denting, leading to costly repairs. 

The answer? Convert two garage doors to one. It’s a great solution for creating a larger opening.

Increasing Functionality  

For countless homeowners, the priority when creating a double garage isn't to store two vehicles but rather to create a more spacious garage with flexible space. This can even be utilised for other purposes, such as storage. By removing the central brick pillar, your vehicle can slot into the centre, leaving enough space on either side to open the doors comfortably or install storage units. This layout provides an innovative, practical solution and you can also install a stylish double garage door. 

Primary Considerations When Removing the Central Pillar  

Pillar removal probably sounds easier than it is. This type of alteration involves structural changes that require careful planning and should follow regulations. 

Structural Calculations  

When removing a load-bearing pillar, it's crucial to replace it with a steel beam for support. Structural calculations are essential to determine the proper specifications, including the padstone and beam requirements. Without appropriate and thorough calculations, the integrity of the building could be at risk. 

Fire Regulations & Approval  

When a garage is attached to a home, fire regulations and safety must be followed. The garage ceiling and exposed steel beams must be fire-rated. Cutting out plasterboard and exposing even small areas can have significant consequences. 

In many cases, building control needs to be notified, and a site visit could be required to sign off due to the nature of the work. Both structural calculation and details, such as fireproofing, are key for sign-off certification. Often, the issue of needing building control certification becomes apparent when the time comes to sell the property and the solicitors demand building control certificates.

Insurance Requirements 

In many cases, garage door companies and homeowners commit to structural work without considering whether they are insured to do so. It's a good idea to double-check by requesting proof of insurance coverage. While it might seem like an afterthought on a smaller-scale project, in the case that something goes wrong, the results could be a nightmare to navigate. 

Removing the central pillar in your garage can transform your space, leading to a more functional outcome and a double garage door. The transformation is ideal for modern homes that could utilise the space for other uses or for drivers who value keeping their vehicle untarnished. However, it's not a simple DIY job; it involves several considerations and proper structural calculations, fire safety compliance, building control certification, and contractor insurance–all essential for a hassle-free project. That’s where we come in, get in touch to find out more about our alteration and garage door conversion services and let us handle your garage door renovation project for you.