As recreational vehicles (RVs) become increasingly popular for travel and outdoor adventures, homeowners are seeking home plans that can accommodate these large vehicles. Home plans with RV garage have emerged as a practical solution for RV owners who want a dedicated space to store their vehicles and preserve their homes’ curb appeal. These specialized garages not only provide secure storage for RVs but also help protect the vehicle from the elements, extend its lifespan, and maintain a clean and organized yard.
In this article, we’ll explore the various aspects of home plans with RV garage, including the benefits, considerations, and design options to help you choose the ideal layout for your lifestyle.
What is an RV Garage?
An RV garage is a large, specialized garage designed to accommodate the size and height of a recreational vehicle. RV garages are typically taller, deeper, and wider than standard garages, offering ample space for RVs, motorhomes, trailers, or other large vehicles.
Unlike a traditional garage, which may only fit a car or two, an RV garage is specifically built to house a recreational vehicle while providing extra storage space for related gear, tools, or other outdoor equipment. These garages may be attached or detached from the main home and are often designed with extra features like high ceilings, wide doors, and reinforced foundations to support the weight and size of an RV.
Key Features of an RV Garage:
- Increased Height: RV garages are taller than standard garages, often with ceiling heights ranging from 12 to 16 feet, or even higher, depending on the RV’s size.
- Wider and Deeper: The width and depth of an RV garage are designed to accommodate RVs, motorhomes, trailers, and sometimes even multiple vehicles. A typical RV garage may range from 20 to 30 feet in width and 40 to 50 feet in depth.
- Reinforced Doors and Flooring: Specialized RV garage doors are larger, typically measuring 14 feet high or more, and are often made from durable materials to handle the weight of the vehicle. The flooring is also reinforced to handle the heavy load of an RV.
- Additional Storage: In addition to parking the RV, these garages often include space for outdoor tools, camping gear, bikes, and other recreational equipment.
Why Choose a Home Plan with an RV Garage?
Choosing a home plan with an RV garage has a variety of practical and aesthetic benefits, particularly for those who love outdoor adventures or travel frequently in their RV. Here are the top reasons why an RV garage is a great addition to a home plan:
1. Protection for Your RV
An RV is a significant investment, and protecting it from the elements (such as sun, rain, snow, and hail) can extend its lifespan and preserve its condition. Storing your RV inside a garage shields it from weathering, rust, and UV damage, which can degrade both the exterior and the interior.
2. Convenient Storage and Organization
RV owners often have a lot of accessories and gear that go along with their vehicle, such as bikes, camping equipment, grills, and outdoor furniture. An RV garage can double as a storage area, allowing you to keep your outdoor equipment organized and easy to access. Some home plans with RV garages even feature additional rooms or built-in storage spaces for tools and supplies.
3. Enhanced Curb Appeal
An RV parked outside on the driveway or in the yard can sometimes be an eyesore, particularly if it’s large and obtrusive. An RV garage helps keep your property looking neat and tidy by concealing the RV from the street. Additionally, many RV garage home plans are designed to complement the aesthetic of the home, blending the garage seamlessly into the architecture.
4. Increased Property Value
Homes with dedicated RV garages can have higher resale value, especially in areas where RV ownership is common. Buyers who own RVs will see the value in having a dedicated space for their vehicle, which can be a key selling point. Even if you don’t own an RV, the extra garage space can appeal to those with other needs, such as additional vehicle storage, workshop space, or storage for large equipment.
5. Flexibility and Versatility
An RV garage can serve more than one purpose. In addition to storing the RV, it can function as a workshop, gym, or storage area for other vehicles or large items. Some home plans include the option for a multi-purpose space where the RV garage can also house a boat, ATVs, or a collection of vehicles.
Key Considerations When Choosing Home Plans with RV Garage
When designing or selecting a home plan with an RV garage, several important factors should be considered to ensure the space meets both your practical needs and aesthetic preferences.
1. Size of the RV
The first consideration when designing an RV garage is the size of your recreational vehicle. RVs come in a wide range of sizes, so it’s important to know the length, width, and height of your RV to ensure the garage can accommodate it comfortably.
- Length: RVs can range from 20 feet to over 40 feet in length, so the depth of the garage should be ample enough to house the vehicle without difficulty.
- Width: RV widths can range from 8 to 9 feet, and some larger models can be even wider. The garage should be at least 12-14 feet wide to ensure easy maneuverability.
- Height: RVs are typically 10 to 13 feet tall, so the garage ceiling must be high enough to allow for clearance.
Make sure to consider your RV’s dimensions before finalizing a home plan. It’s also important to account for extra space around the RV for movement, storage, and maintenance.
2. Type of RV Garage
Home plans with RV garages come in various designs, including:
- Attached RV Garage: This design integrates the RV garage with the main house, providing direct access to the home. An attached garage is often the preferred choice for homeowners who want to park their RV close to their living space.
- Detached RV Garage: A detached RV garage is separate from the home, providing more privacy and space for the vehicle. This option is ideal for homeowners who prefer a more spacious property or want to preserve the aesthetic of the home by keeping the garage out of view.
- Tandem RV Garage: Some home plans feature tandem garages, where two vehicles (including an RV) can be parked one behind the other. This is a good option if space is limited, but it requires a longer lot.
- Side-Entry RV Garage: Side-entry garages are accessed from the side rather than the front of the property, providing more flexibility in terms of lot layout and design.
3. Garage Doors and Access
The garage door is an essential aspect of the RV garage design. The door must be wide enough to allow for easy entry and exit of the RV. In most cases, a door height of 14 feet or more is required for larger RVs and motorhomes.
Other features to consider include:
- Automatic Door Opener: Many RV garage doors come with automatic openers, which can make accessing the garage easier, especially when you’re handling a large vehicle.
- Secondary Doors: If you plan to use the RV garage for additional purposes, such as a workshop or storage space, secondary doors (side doors or walk-in doors) can provide better access without having to open the main garage door.
4. Foundation and Structural Considerations
Because RV garages need to accommodate heavy vehicles, the foundation and structure must be robust. Reinforced concrete flooring is essential for supporting the weight of the RV and preventing cracks over time. The garage structure must also be capable of handling the height and size of the RV without risk of damage.
Additionally, if you’re building an attached RV garage, it’s important to ensure that the structure integrates well with the main house, both aesthetically and structurally.
5. Storage and Workshop Space
Many RV garage home plans are designed with additional storage space or workshops. You may want extra room to store tools, camping gear, or other outdoor equipment. Some designs feature built-in shelving, cabinets, or loft storage areas to maximize space and organization.
Popular Home Plans with RV Garage
Here are some common layouts and design features found in home plans with RV garages:
1. Single-Level Homes with Attached RV Garage
This layout is ideal for those who want to keep their RV close to their living area. Typically, the RV garage is located on the side of the home, often with a direct entry into the home’s hallway or mudroom. This plan is perfect for people who want the convenience of having their RV parked close by, with easy access to the rest of the house.
2. Two-Story Homes with Detached RV Garage
Two-story homes with detached RV garages are perfect for larger properties where the garage and living areas can be separated. The RV garage is typically positioned at the rear of the property, away from the main house. This layout works well for families who want the extra space without compromising the aesthetics of their home.
3. Modern Ranch-Style Homes with RV Garage
Ranch-style homes are often single-story homes that offer open, spacious floor plans. These homes with RV garages blend the best of both worlds: spacious living areas and the added functionality of an RV garage. A modern ranch-style home with an attached or detached RV garage is an excellent choice for people looking for a more laid-back, yet functional, lifestyle.
Conclusion, home plans with rv garage
Home plans with RV garage offer a convenient and functional solution for RV owners who want to keep their vehicles safe, organized, and accessible. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or an avid outdoor enthusiast, a well-designed RV garage can improve your home’s functionality, protect your RV from the elements, and enhance your property’s value.
When selecting or designing a home plans with RV garage, be sure to consider factors like the size of your RV, the type of garage, access features, and additional storage needs. With the right plan, your RV garage can provide a convenient, safe, and stylish solution for all your vehicle and storage needs.
