Garage conversion
Converting a single skin brick detached garage into a cat playroom is a fantastic DIY project that not only maximizes your space but also provides a safe and stimulating environment for your feline friends. The first step in this renovation is to ensure that your garage meets UK building regulations, especially concerning insulation. Following an organized plan will make the process easier and more enjoyable.
Because not using the garage we decided to give extra space to our indoor queens with possibility to have access to outside world on a safety enclosure. This will be connected to main house via underground secure cement tunnel to not lose heating. Our house is already a cat house, we have two rooms for nursery at first level, dining room from ground level is main room for our furry queens and as well hallway and kitchen area are full of toy, cat tree tower and scratching posts.
So we tired of our furry friends taking over all our space in the house and we need to extend there space from were it will be much easy to have access to outdoor run cat enclosure. We want to give our cats extra play area without sacrificing more form our own comfort to much. Converting our detached garage into a purr-fect playroom for our feline companions is the best outcome.
In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of insulating the garage and navigating building regulations to create a safe and cosy space for our cats.
Creating a big play area for our cats offers countless benefits. It fosters their natural behaviour’s and provides them with physical and mental stimulation. The garage conversion can become a sanctuary, where cats can climb, scratch, and explore, keeping them happy and healthy with easy access to secure outdoor.
Okay, let’s break down the exciting project of transforming our new detached garage into a purr-fect playroom for our queens! This is a fantastic idea that will not only provide a special dedicated space for our cats but also enhance their environment. We’re aiming for a comfortable, safe, and stimulating space, and the key lies in careful planning and execution. The core of this transformation will focus on addressing the single-skin brick construction. We need to significantly improve the insulation to maintain a consistent temperature year-round. This can be achieved through various methods like internal stud walling with insulation batts or rigid board insulation, combined with a vapor barrier to prevent moisture damage. Good insulation will be paramount for energy efficiency, especially given we’re planning on adding infrared heating on celling, which we’ll get to.
Beyond temperature control, lighting will greatly impact the usability and comfort of this cat haven. Natural light is coming from a big french door, and we adding a cat flap for access to the outside world in to cat enclosure (we have as well a secure cat-proof garden). Supplemental LED lighting that mimics natural daylight will used to complement any natural light that comes through. Avoid harsh overhead lighting, as cats prefer softer, diffused light. We are using infrared heating, which is an excellent choice for a cat-friendly environment as they work through radiation and don’t dry out the air like some conventional methods. This ensures even warmth without the risk of burns being instal on the celling. Of course, the space also needs to be secure, and by adding CCTV we’ll keep an eye on our queens inside and outside. And finally, no cat playroom would be complete without interactive toys and enrichment options, this should include items for bedding, climbing, scratching, and exploring. Additionally, ensure that all windows and doors are secure to protect your pets and keep potential escape routes closed. We are using child lock and strong pvc coated mesh to lets in air and keeps your cats safe (strong up to 10kg).
It’s vital to ensure that all works meet the building regulations from our/your area. This will likely require to submit plans which we done (depending on the scale of conversion) to local building control department for approval before any work begins. Key areas for building control are floor, wall and celling insulation, any structural alterations, electrical safety and fire safety. This will give us the peace of mind that the space is not only fun for your cats but also safe and fully within the law. By tackling these factors systematically, we’ll create a wonderful, bespoke space for your furry family members.
Project Overview:
Assess the Space: Check the garage’s condition.
Plan: Decide on Size, Design & Safety.
Insulate: Choose suitable materials.
Comply with Regulations: Research local building codes.
Design the Playroom: Create fun areas for climbing, resting, eating and toilet. Remove small objects and secure loose wires.
Set a Budget: Know your costs upfront.
Execute: Start the conversion.
Before diving into the construction, think about how you want the final playroom to look. Create a vision board with ideas for cat trees, play structures, and cosy napping. Consider the layout, ensuring that there is ample room for climbing, scratching, and lounging. Including multi-level spaces will keep your cats stimulated and active. Don’t forget to incorporate windows for natural light and safe ventilation, keeping your cats comfortable while they play. Make sure to take measurements and assess the condition of the garage to determine what materials you will need for insulation. All this are in may mind like a map.
Insulating your brick garage is crucial for maintaining a comfortable environment throughout the year. You’ll want to use materials that adhere to UK building regulations, like rigid foam boards or mineral wool for wall insulation. For the ceiling, consider using a similar insulative material to prevent heat loss. Be sure to seal any gaps or cracks to keep drafts at bay. If you are unsure of the regulations, consult local building codes or a professional to ensure compliance. It’s important to follow regulations to ensure the safety of your cats and the longevity of the playroom.
Choosing the right insulation material for your garage. DIY project can give you the chance to buy quality because you will make economy of labour work which is very expensive. With good quality materials total project we will pay only 30% compare with a labour job with low or medium quality of materials. A well-insulated garage will keep our cats comfortable year-round. We decided to have higher R-value and use PIR Insulation Board.
Floor structure:
vinyl
22mm P5 Chipboard
150mm PIR Insulation Board
500mu 200G polytheme DPM
concrete base garage
DPM
soil
Stud wall structure:
single brick wall
50mm gap space for ventilations
easy trim 112gsm breathable membrane attach to stud wall face to brick
stud wall 75×100 C24 (finished size 70×95 / 4″x3″)
90mm PIR Insulation Board inside stud wall
3.5mm thermawrap general purpose foil wrap insulation
green polythene vapour barrier
OSB3 – 18mm
Celling structure:
300mm roll wool insulation
90mm PIR Insulation Board inside ceiling joists
green polythene vapour barrier
12.5mm panel plasterboard
Condensation and mould growth is preventing by use vapor barriers and moisture-resistant materials. This keeps the air fresh.
Seal all gaps and cracks around windows and doors. This step is crucial in maintaining a stable temperature.
Ensuring Safe Electrical Wiring and Outlets and any electrical work should comply with standards. Hire a licensed electrician if you need modifications because you will need electrical certificate and part P for electrical work to be show to building inspector.
Install smoke detectors and ensure proper escape routes for safety.
Once you have insulated, and pass inspections, it’s time to start building the cat playroom. Consider adding shelves for climbing, hiding spots for napping, and scratching posts for your cats to exercise their claws. Use cat-safe materials such as non-toxic paint and carpeting to create a space that is both fun and safe for your furry friends.
Choosing the right flooring is vital when transforming your garage. Opt for a durable, cat-friendly material that is easy to clean. We chose Vinyl, work well is resistant to spills and scratches. If you want to add a touch of comfort, consider placing cat-friendly rugs or mats in various areas where your cats can lounge.
To create a playful environment, you can add wall treatments that cater to your cats’ natural instincts. You might also consider adding wall stickers or murals of cat-themed designs to brighten up the space and create an engaging atmosphere.
Providing various types of furnishings to cater to your cats’ instincts is essential. Consider multiple cat trees, tunnels, and boxes for hiding. A soft, cosy bed perfect for quiet napping spots. Consider using furniture that can be easily rearranged, allowing you flexibility in creating new spaces for play or rest.
Don’t forget to include maintenance stations, such as litter boxes in discreet locations. Make sure these areas are easily accessible yet private enough for your cats. Providing a designated grooming station can also be a great addition for keeping their coats healthy and clean.
Converting your single skin brick detached garage into a cat playroom is not just a fun project, is a rewarding DIY project that will provide also enhances the wellbeing of your cats by providing them with their own play space. With a well-thought-out plan, attention to insulation and safety, and plenty of play structures, you can transform your garage into a cosy, feline paradise. Your cats will thank you for it! So grab your tools and get started on creating the ultimate cat paradise in your garage!
We start our project and we will keep you update with pictures.
