Detached garages with lifts

To safely install a car lift, it’s essential to have adequate ceiling height and floor space. Sheds Unlimited offers customizable garages with higher sidewalls and scissor trusses to provide the necessary clearance. While specific dimensions depend on the type of lift and vehicles, a minimum ceiling height of 12 feet is often recommended. It’s advisable to consult with our design team to determine the exact specifications tailored to your needs.

If your current Sheds Unlimited garage meets the necessary height and structural requirements, retrofitting a car lift may be possible. However, many standard garages lack the clearance needed for safe lift operation. We recommend evaluating your existing structure and, if necessary, considering a new custom-built garage designed specifically to accommodate a car lift.

A solid and level concrete foundation is crucial for the safe installation and operation of a car lift. Sheds Unlimited constructs garages on customer-prepared concrete pads, ensuring the foundation meets the necessary thickness and strength specifications. It’s important to follow the lift manufacturer’s guidelines and consult with our team to ensure your foundation is appropriately designed.

Yes, accommodating a car lift may require modifications to your garage doors. This can include installing taller doors or adjusting the track system to ensure the doors do not interfere with lift operation. Sheds Unlimited offers customizable door options, and our team can work with you to design a solution that fits both your aesthetic preferences and functional needs.

Safety is crucial when incorporating a car lift into your garage. Ensure the lift is installed by certified professionals and consider features such as automatic locking mechanisms, safety latches, and regular maintenance schedules. Our team can provide guidance on structural reinforcements and design elements to enhance safety in your custom garage.

The weight capacity of car lifts varies based on design and manufacturer. Residential lifts typically support between 7,000 to 10,000 pounds, accommodating most cars, SUVs, and light trucks. When planning your Sheds Unlimited garage, inform our team about the types of vehicles you intend to service, so we can ensure the structure is appropriately designed to support the selected lift and vehicle weights.

The cost to install a car lift in a garage varies based on the type of lift, installation requirements, and potential garage modifications. A two-post lift typically costs $2,000–$5,000, while a four-post lift ranges from $3,000–$6,000. Scissor lifts and single-post lifts fall between $2,000–$6,000, while in-ground hydraulic lifts can exceed $10,000–$20,000 due to complex installation. Additional costs include labor ($500–$2,000), electrical upgrades ($500–$1,500), and garage modifications ($1,000–$5,000) if ceiling height or flooring needs adjustments. In total, expect to spend anywhere from $3,000 to over $20,000, depending on your lift choice and installation complexity.

Yes, you can install a car lift in a standard garage, but it depends on ceiling height, floor strength, and available space. Most residential garages have ceilings between 8 to 10 feet, and while some scissor lifts or low-rise two-post lifts can fit in an 8-foot garage, a 10-foot ceiling is ideal for a full-size two-post or four-post lift. The concrete floor should be at least 4 inches thick with 3,000 PSI strength to support the lift. Additionally, ensure there’s enough clearance for both the lift and the vehicle. If space is tight, a portable or scissor lift might be a better option.