At Blue Sky Builders, Inc., we believe everyone deserves the garage of their dreams. To help our customers achieve this, we have been building custom garages in the Chicago area for over 30 years, and our team offers a wide variety of custom garage features to fit our clients’ specific needs. When planning your next garage rebuild or remodel, one of the first and most important steps to take is to determine the primary use of your space. Once you know the specifics of what you will be using your garage for, our team can help you decide which custom garage features would benefit your space. Today, we will take a look at three popular custom garage features that come in handy for a variety of reasons; staircases within garages, different garage door sizes, and high lift garage doors.

Staircases

Staircases can be a wonderful way to provide access to extra space above your garage. The extra square footage above your garage can be used for a variety of purposes, such as extra storage space, an in-home gym, an office space, a separate bedroom, or an entirely separate living quarters like an apartment. There are different staircase options to choose from depending on how you plan to use the additional space. If the space above your garage is going to be used primarily for storage, a pull down staircase will likely be sufficient. If, however, you plan to use the space as additional living space, you may consider a full staircase that allows easy access from the first floor of your garage to the space above. While a staircase will take up some of the first floor garage space, if you have the room available, a staircase can provide many benefits, including;

• Easy exit in case of fire or emergency;
• Easier to move things in and out of the space above your garage;
• A separate, private entrance for those considering adding a home office or rentable apartment above the garage; and
• Additional storage can be built underneath the staircase.

Different Garage Door Sizes and High Lift Garage Doors

The number of vehicles you plan to park in your garage, and the size of each vehicle, is another thing to take into consideration when planning your new garage. Fortunately, today’s garage doors come in a variety of different sizes depending on your needs. Standard single garage doors accommodate most vehicles, but those with larger SUVs, trucks, and recreational vehicles like RVs and campers, may need larger sizes. If you need room for larger vehicles, or would like to fit multiple vehicles within the space, consider a double garage door model, which are available in larger sizes such as 14 x 7 feet and 16 x 7 feet. Those with recreational vehicles may need to go even bigger. Our team can help you design a custom garage and choose the right door to fit your specific vehicle needs.

Another option to consider is installing a high lift garage door or a overhead door pitchback. Both options allow for the garage door to be lifted much higher off the ground, freeing up ceiling space within your garage. This is especially beneficial for those hoping to install a car lift, a device that allows one car to be raised off the ground and another parked underneath it. For those with only enough space for a single door garage, a lift can be a great way to fit two cars in a limited space. Check out our custom garage gallery for examples of high lift garage doors and pitchbacks we have installed.

Ready to Get Started?

Are you ready to have the perfect garage? If so, contact the team at Blue Sky Builders, Inc. to get started today. Our team is here to help with every step of your next garage project, from demolition to rebuilding to installing custom features to fit your needs. Call 630-852-8485 or contact us online now.

When customizing your brand new or recently remodeled garage, one important decision you will have to make is which siding you would like on the exterior of your garage. Like siding for a home, there are multiple garage siding options to choose from, depending on your specific needs. Shopping for siding is a lot like shopping for clothes. What you buy and wear depends on a number of factors including the weather in your area, your location, and your budget. Some siding options work best in cooler climates, while others are great at withstanding high temperatures. Siding comes in expensive options, and fancier options for those looking to spend more. Unlike clothing, however, siding is not changed very often, and while painting and modifications can change a structure’s appearance, most of us count on our siding to last for years without requiring too much maintenance. When searching for the right siding option for your garage, check out some of these popular choices.

Shingle Siding

If you have a Craftsman or Arts and Crafts style home, or a home with shingle siding or shingles on the roof, shingle siding on your garage may be the right choice. Shingle siding typically works best on traditionally designed homes, and there are a variety of different shingle materials to choose from including wood, fiber cement, and vinyl. Shingles also come in a variety of colors and styles, so you can choose one that best compliments your property. Shingles are also relatively affordable as well, with the average shingle siding running anywhere from $6 to $9 per square foot.

Horizontal Lap Siding

Horizontal lap siding is a common siding choice perfect for traditional-style and colonial homes, or any home with a simple, symmetrical design. Horizontal lap siding can be finished in a variety of colors, and comes in a variety of materials including vinyl, fiber cement, aluminum, and wood. Horizontal lap siding is also an inexpensive option to choose, with prices ranging from $3 to $7 per square foot depending on the material and finish.

Metal Options

Metal is not a common choice for siding, but it can be a nice touch to a garage that has a contemporary aesthetic, or to compliment a modern home. Choices in material include corrugated steel, copper, or aluminum, and most metal siding options far outlast other siding materials. Another benefit of metal siding is that it can be bent and formed to meet any curves, edges, or other shapes in your garage’s structure. The cost of metal siding varies greatly depending on the material you choose.

Brick

Brick is another frequently used siding option, and this choice requires little to no future maintenance. Brick is durable and comes in a variety of colors and styles, and can be stacked or laid in multiple different patterns, giving you a chance to further customize your garage’s aesthetic. Brick siding complements many homes from traditional to contemporary, but it’s durability ability to be customized comes at a price. Expect to pay anywhere from $11 to $20 per square foot depending on the specific brick you choose.

Stone

For those looking to add a sophisticated touch to their newly built custom garage, consider stone siding. Stone siding is durable and requires little to no maintenance, and is available in a wide array of colors, sizes, and textures. Some stone options are straight from a quarry, while other cheaper alternatives include man made material that mimics stone. Stone is one of the costlier choices for garage siding, with costs running anywhere from $35 to $50 per square foot installed.

Time For a Custom Garage

Are you ready for the garage of your dreams? Look no further than the experienced team at Blue Sky Builders, Inc.. We can help you with every step of your garage project, from demolition to construction and installation. We offer garages in a variety of sizes and styles depending on your needs and desires. Call 630-852-8485 today to learn more, and to set up a time for a free onsite estimate.

Most of us do not shop for garage doors very often, so when the time comes, making a decision can be difficult. If this is your first time shopping for a garage door, or if it has been a while since you have purchased a new door, welcome to Garage Doors 101. Here are all the factors you need to know about and weigh during your search for a perfect new door.

Door Design

Today’s garage doors are available in many different styles, colors, and sizes, so find one that fits your needs. Do you want windows? A wide variety of window options are available, and windows on a garage door compliment most homes. Are you looking for a class, paneled door design? Consider a steel garage door model. Or maybe you are looking for the sophisticated touch of a carriage house door model? If you home has a modern design, an aluminum door with glass can be a nice touch, and one that requires little maintenance.

Color is also an important factor to keep in mind. You want a color that compliments your home, or adds a pop to the front of your property. Examine the rest of your home, and search for a door that matches well. The team at Blue Sky Builders, Inc. can also help you make a smart choice when it comes to door style.

Door Material

Today’s garage doors come in various different materials, and each require different levels of maintenance and have varying lifespans. A wood door, for example, can be a beautiful addition to your home, but will likely require staining or additional painting every so often. Classic steel doors or carriage house steel doors have long lifespans and require very limited maintenance, but they may not add the same pop that a wood door can. For those looking for a wood door without the extra work involved, consider fiberglass garage doors, which come in a wide range of wooden looks but are durable and require little maintenance. A vinyl door is great at withstanding harsh weather, and these types of doors are rust-free and dent resistant. Glass and aluminum doors compliment modern homes, and are available in different colors and finishes, but they are less suitable for areas with harsher weather.

Door Safety

In most homes, the garage door is one of the largest moving objects, so having one that is safe for you and your family is vital. Modern garage doors come with a wide variety of safety features, so find one you can trust to keep your family safe. Many doors are pinch-resistant, meaning they keep fingers away from the door while closing. Additionally, tamper resistant bottom brackets help prevent injuries from doors under tension. Polyurethane insulation can help prevent fires, another important safety feature.

Door Warranty

Any new garage door should be expected to last a while, but a good warranty is always beneficial. Many different garage door manufacturers offer warranties, but some only last a year or less. It is possible, however, to find a manufacturer with a long lasting warranty. Additionally, a good warranty indicates that the manufacturer believes in the door, so you can have peace of mind knowing you have made a good choice.

Cost

As with any home improvement project, cost will likely play a big role in your decision making process. Fortunately, many garage doors are affordable. In general, wood doors run the most costly, followed by fiberglass, and then steel. Keep in mind that you will likely not be replacing your door for a while, so spending a little more than you would like but for a quality door may be worth it. Additionally, a quality door can bolster your property value.

We Can Help

The team at Blue Sky Builders, Inc. can help you with finding the perfect garage door. We can design and create your door, offer installation services, and perform future maintenance. We offer a wide variety of quality garage doors and openers, in various colors, materials, and styles. Call 630-852-8485 or visit Blue Sky Builders, Inc. online to learn more today.

Driveway design may seem like an afterthought to many homeowners. Driveways, however, are very important. They play an major role in your overall home design, and the right driveway style can help boost your property value. With the variety of different driveway styles available today, deciding which option to choose can be difficult. You want a driveway that compliments your home and garage, will endure the weather wherever you live, and fits your budget. Below are a few important things to consider during your search for the perfect driveway, as well as a few popular driveway materials.

Plan Ahead

When choosing between the various driveway styles, consider the following:

Curb Appeal: When looking at your home from the street, your driveway makes a big impression. You need to choose a style that compliments your home, meaning that some styles may not be right for you. For example, for a farmhouse cottage style home, a gravel driveway may suit nicely, while a brick driveway may feel out of place.

Weather: Your garage needs to stand up to the elements in your area, whatever they may be. If you live in a colder climate, consider asphalt, as it is great at withstanding cold temperature. If rain is a concern, avoid materials such as pea stone or gravel, as they can erode easily. Consider all elements including rain, humidity, temperature changes, and snow while making your decision.

Maintenance: How much work do you want to be putting into your driveway in the future? A gravel driveway may require more gravel over time. An asphalt driveway requires resealing. Some styles may even require work from professionals. Additionally, consider the purpose of your driveway. Will heavy vehicles be using it? If so, some materials are more durable than others.

Price: Like it or not, money plays a big role in most home improvement decisions. You need a style that fits your budget, but choose carefully. A cheap option, such as gravel, may be appealing, but may require expensive maintenance over time. A paver driveway, while expensive initially, often requires less additional expenses overtime. Consider both upfront and lifespan costs while making your decision.

Common Materials to Choose From

You have a wide selection of options to choose from when it comes to driveway materials. Common choices include:

Concrete: Concrete is common for driveways across the country, as it can withstand weather and is typically inexpensive to maintain. Designs with concrete range from simple uncolored concrete to styles with added colors and textures.

Gravel: Another very popular choice is gravel. Gravel is inexpensive to install, but does require significant maintenance over time. Gravel comes in different colors, allowing homeowners to choose a style that compliments their property.

Asphalt: Asphalt is a popular choice, especially in the northern part of the country, as it is well suited to handle colder climates. Asphalt driveways are an attractive option, but do require resealing once every three to five years.

Brick: Brick, while expensive to install, can be a real property value booster. The different colors and patterns available allow homeowners the chance to customize their driveway. Additionally, brick is inexpensive to maintain.

Paver: Another great choice to boost property value is a paver driveway. Pavers are often rectangular shaped pieces of concrete, stone, clay, brick, or recycled materials. Expensive to install, pavers provide homeowners a real chance for customization, and can last upwards of 30 years with little maintenance.

Let Our Garage Specialists Help

Your garage and your driveway are important pieces of your overall home’s aesthetic, so having help with major decisions is vital. The team at Blue Sky Builders, Inc. is skilled in all things garage related and is available to help you with your project immediately. Call 630-852-8485 to get started with a garage specialist today, or visit Blue Sky Builders, Inc. online to review the variety of services we offer. Do not make important garage and driveway decisions alone.

If you are in need of a new garage, you are faced with an important choice; do you build an attached or detached garage? Both designs have unique advantages and disadvantages, so it is best to consider your lot size and the intended purpose of your new structure when choosing between the two. Attached garages are often cheaper, as contractors are able to utilize one of your home’s pre-existing walls during construction. For those with limited space, however, or for homeowners looking for more freedom during the building process, a detached garage is often the right choice. Below we detail the reasons a detached garage may be the best choice for your home, and some downsides to consider as well.

Lot Size

A detached garage is perfect for a homeowner with ample space behind the home. Many homes in downtown areas have long, narrow lots, providing plenty of room for a detached garage to be constructed. Additionally, if there is an alley behind your home, it is beneficial to have the ability to pull in straight from the alley. A detached garage, however, may eat up a large portion of your back yard area, so if green space is your concern, perhaps an attached garage is the best choice, assuming you have the space on either side of your home for the addition.

Garage Purpose

In addition to lot size, homeowners also need to consider the intended purpose of their new garage. If you live in a climate with harsher weather, and are sick of trudging through the rain or snow to access your vehicle, an attached garage you can access directly from your home may be your best option. If however, you are looking to include a workshop of some kind within your new garage, having the structure away from your home can be advantageous. A detached garage can provide more space, safety, and privacy, and can help keep any noise from the workshop from reaching your home.

Additionally, if you have frequent guests, or are in need of additional living space, a detached garage is prime for adding a living area, such as a bedroom or separate apartment.

Home Aesthetic

Another important factor to consider is the current aesthetic of your home. If you have an older home, a new attached garage can stick out like a sore thumb. A detached garage can be hidden behind your property, filling most of the same needs of an attached garage without potentially lowering your property value. Also consider other homes in your neighborhood. If detached garages seem to be the trend, consider going with that option. On the other hand, if every home on the block has an attached garage, future home buyers may shy away from your property if they feel it does not fit in.

Safety

Another major benefit to detached garages are the increased safety they can provide for you and your family. Carbon monoxide is always a worry, but with a detached garage, there is no chance the toxic gas could seep into your home. If building a workshop within your garage is your intention, the dangerous chemicals you may be working with will also be stored securely and safely away from your family. In fact, the American Lung Association recommends homeowners build a detached garage if possible, as harmful substances like gas, oil fumes, and pesticides are a risk to your family. Additionally, with an attached garage, is a burglar attempts to break in and is successful, they will likely have easy access to the rest of your home. If a burglar breaks into your detached garage, they may steal the garage’s contents, but your family will remain safe.

A Garage Specialist Can Help
If you are torn between an attached and detached garage, a garage specialist can help you make your decision. The team at Blue Sky Builders, Inc. specializes in all things garage related. Whether you are looking for a new garage, a remodel, or a few upgrades, we are here to help. Call 630-852-8485 today to get started on your next garage project. Also, contact Blue Sky Builders, Inc. online to learn more about our services, and to view a gallery of some of our work.