Attached Garage vs. Detached Garage: What’s Right for You?

When considering the right garage for your home, understanding the differences between an attached garage vs. detached garage is crucial. Each option offers unique benefits and challenges that can significantly impact your property’s functionality and aesthetics!
In this article, you’ll find answers to fundamental questions like “What is a detached garage?” and “What structure is best for me?” as well as more complex considerations such as design styles and construction factors.
At Glick Woodworks, we specialize in guiding homeowners through the decision-making process regarding the pros and cons of detached and attached garages. Our team is dedicated to bringing your vision to life across PA, NJ, DE, and MD. Let’s dive in and explore your options!
What is a Detached Garage?

A detached garage is a separate structure from the main house, typically located in the backyard or side yard. But what is a detached garage’s purpose? It provides a dedicated space for parking vehicles, storing tools, or serving as a workshop. Detached garages can vary in size and design, often allowing for more customization compared to attached garages. This type of garage offers homeowners the flexibility to create a functional space without affecting the layout or aesthetics of the primary residence.
More About Detached Garages
What is an Attached Garage?

An attached garage shares a wall with the main house, providing direct access from it to the living areas. This design often allows for convenient entry into the home, especially during inclement weather. Attached garages are typically designed to blend seamlessly with the architecture of the house, offering a cohesive look. They can serve multiple purposes, such as parking vehicles, storage, or even a workspace, depending on the homeowner’s needs.
More About Attached Garages
Pros and Cons of Detached and Attached Garages
Now that we’ve clarified what a detached garage and an attached garage are, let’s delve into the advantages and drawbacks of each option. With various styles, types, and construction methods available (like Prefabricated vs. Built On-site garages), the initial decision revolves around whether you prefer an attached garage vs. a detached one. By exploring the pros and cons of detached garages and attached garages, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your budget, property, and specific needs.

Pros of Detached Garages:
- Increased Privacy: When considering the pros and cons of detached garages, it’s important to note that detached garages offer a greater sense of privacy and separation from the main living space as it is its own separate building.
- Flexibility in Design: Homeowners have more freedom to design and customize a detached garage without being limited by the house’s architecture. Checking out detached garage ideas is a great way to gather inspiration for your own project!
- Reduced Noise: This is one of the most appealing aspects within the attached garage vs. detached garage debate! If you’re considering adding a garage to your property to serve as a workshop, mancave, garden center or other hobby hotspot, a detached garage may be your preferred option. Vehicles and activities in a detached garage are less likely to disturb the living areas of the home.
Cons of Detached Garages:
- Accessibility: Detached garages often require additional walking distance from the house to access it, especially in inclement weather.
- Cost: Building a separate structure can be more expensive due to the need for foundations, roofing, and other materials.
- Potential Zoning Issues: Depending on local regulations, there may be restrictions on where a detached garage can be built on your property.

Pros of Attached Garages:
- Convenience: Attached garages offer direct access to the home, making it easier to unload groceries and carry items inside. This unique feature is one of the most coveted when selecting between attached garages vs. detached garages.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Constructing an attached garage can sometimes be less expensive since it shares walls with the home, reducing building costs.
- Efficient Use of Space: While it’s important to know that both types of garages add value to a house, attached options can be added towards the total square footage of the home! An attached garage utilizes the existing footprint of the property, maximizing the available land.
- Easier Access to Utilities: Having an attached garage often means easier access to plumbing and electricity for various needs.
Cons of Attached Garages:
- Noise Transfer: Activities in the garage, such as car repairs or using power tools, may disturb the living spaces of the home.
- Limited Design Flexibility: An attached garage must conform to the design of the house, which may limit aesthetic options.
- Reduced Yard Space: An attached garage vs. detached garage can significantly impact your outdoor area, as an attached garage may take up valuable yard space, limiting your landscaping opportunities and overall yard size.
Attached and Detached Garages for Sale
Ultimately, the decision between attached garages vs. detached garages comes down to your personal preferences and specific needs.
We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights. If you need further assistance in planning your garage, don’t hesitate to contact our team today.
With decades of experience building both sheds and garages across PA, DE, MD, and NJ, we can help you create the perfect solution for your property. From simple single-car styles to a gorgeous custom built garage workshop, our garages are designed to stand the test of time while looking great.
Browse through some of the projects we’ve completed to find inspiration for your own garage!
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