In modern architecture, the garage has evolved from a simple storage space for vehicles to a multifunctional space that is an integral part of the home value. Whether it's a workshop, an extra living unit or a safe storage for valuables, the technical realization of a garage requires precision from the first sketch to the final finish. Successful construction or renovation starts with understanding the constructive possibilities and applicable regulations in the Netherlands. At Bricknest, we combine years of expertise with transparent project management, so you know exactly where you stand during this transformation process.
Planning and design
Before the first spade hits the ground, thorough planning is the only way to prevent unforeseen delays and budget overruns. In this phase, not only are the aesthetic requirements defined, but our engineers are also looking at the load-bearing capacity of the soil and the integration with existing utilities.
Customized projects based on customer needs
Each project at Bricknest is unique, because each client has different requirements for the use of the space. When it comes to customization, we look at aspects such as insulation values, natural light and the technical infrastructure for charging stations, for example. Good design takes the future into account; we think about how the space can be used in ten years. It is essential to find the right balance between functionality and architectural unity with the main houses, advising on materials that are both sustainable and easy to maintain.
Lead times and construction budget
Investment transparency is the most important starting point for many homeowners. The cost of building a garage varies considerably based on the choice of materials, the foundation method and the desired level of finish.
To create a realistic financial framework, we at Bricknest go through the following steps:
- Determining the technical requirements (insulation, electricity, drainage).
- The calculation of the structural elements and the necessary permits.
- Preparing a detailed budget including items for unforeseen costs.
- Planning the various construction phases to minimize the lead time.
This method prevents financial surprises afterwards and keeps the project manageable within the agreed timelines.
Roof construction and extension
When the ground surface is limited, vertical construction offers an excellent solution. Creating an extra floor on an existing garage can double the usable area without sacrificing the garden or driveway.
Construction options and material choices
In the case of a roof structure garage the foundation of the existing structure is the most critical factor. Not every garage was originally built to carry the weight of an extra floor. A technical study into the load-bearing capacity of the walls and the foundation is therefore inevitable. When we build a surface-mounted garage, we often use timber frame construction because of the relatively low weight and the high insulation values that can be achieved. A garage roof structure must also meet the applicable BENG (Nearly Energy Neutral Buildings) requirements, which means that the connections to the existing building must be thermally separated to avoid thermal bridges.
Examples of successful projects
Our portfolio includes various examples of a rooftop garage where the extra space has been transformed into a full-fledged home office or a guest apartment. In these projects, we often see that a smart staircase connection and the use of dormers cause an enormous increase in light and air. By working with materials that match the existing façade, the structure always seems to have been part of the original design. In doing so, our project managers at Bricknest monitor the quality of the connections between old and new, which is essential for long-term watertightness.
Garage doors
The garage door is often the largest moving part of a home and has a direct impact on both insulation and safety. A technically high-quality door protects against burglary and heat loss, provided it is properly installed and maintained.
Painting and finishing
Even the best door loses its protective effect if the finish fails. Periodically painting the garage door is not only an aesthetic issue, but above all a necessary protection against corrosion in metal doors or wood rot on wooden doors. Professional paints offer a UV filter and an elastic film that absorbs the expansion and shrinkage of the material. At Bricknest, we recommend choosing a high-quality industrial coating that is resistant to mechanical damage, so that the door remains presentable for years, even when used intensively.
Reliability and durability
When selecting a garage door, we look at the U value, which indicates the degree of heat transmission. Modern sectional doors with a thermal break ensure that the garage remains frost-free in winter and cool in summer. In addition, the reliability of the drive mechanism is crucial; we opt for systems with a soft-start and soft-stop function, which significantly reduces the mechanical stress on the rails and springs and extends the life of the entire structure.
Floors and cast floors
The garage floor must withstand extreme loads, such as vehicle weight, leaking liquids and chemicals. A traditional concrete floor is often too porous, so dirt and oil can permanently soak into the structure.
Smooth and wear-resistant surfaces
One of the most sustainable solutions to this problem is cast garage floors. These seamless floor systems, often based on epoxy or polyurethane, are liquid-tight and extremely resilient.
The advantages of this type of floor finish are numerous:
- A completely seamless finish that prevents dirt from accumulating anywhere.
- High resistance to chemicals, acids and engine oils.
- Possibility to apply an anti-slip layer for extra safety in wet weather conditions.
- An aesthetically sleek look that gives the garage a professional look.
At Bricknest, we ensure a professional application, where the surface is first sanded or blasted to guarantee optimal adhesion of the cast floor.
Floor maintenance and longevity
Thanks to its non-porous structure, a cast floor is very easy to clean with neutral cleaning agents. In contrast to coated concrete, where the paint layer often peels off after a few years due to “hot tire pickup”, a professionally applied cast floor remains intact for decades. This makes it a profitable investment that pays for itself through lower maintenance costs and a higher residual value of the garage.
Prefab and fast assembly
Time is a valuable factor in every renovation. Prefabrication offers the possibility to drastically reduce construction time on site, while ensuring quality in a controlled factory environment.
Saving time and costs
A prefab rooftop garage is a textbook example of efficiency. Because the elements are produced in the factory, the weather has no influence on the construction process. On-site assembly can often be completed within one or two days, so that the garage is only without a roof for a very short time. This reduces the risk of water damage and significantly reduces inconvenience to residents and the immediate environment.
Quality and Reliability
Although the speed of prefab assembly is impressive, these systems are technically not inferior to traditional construction. In the factory, the insulation and frames are placed with extreme precision, resulting in an airtight shell that meets the strictest energy standards. Bricknest works with specialized manufacturers to ensure that each prefab element fits seamlessly to the specific dimensions of your existing garage.
