(Paola, Louisburg, Olathe, Miami & Franklin County, KS Guide)
TL;DR
- Most homeowners go too small—and regret it later
- A good rule: plan for your current needs + future growth
- Typical sizes:
- 2-car garage: 22’–26’ wide
- 3-car garage: 30’–36’ wide
- Shops: 30×40 or larger for flexibility
If you’re building in Kansas, talk with a trusted local custom home builder or contractor near you to size it right the first time
Why Garage & Shop Size Matters In Kansas
If you live in Paola, Louisburg, or anywhere in Miami or Franklin County, your garage or shop isn’t just for parking—it’s often used for:
- Trucks, SUVs, and daily drivers
- Boats and pontoons
- Trailers and RVs
- Tools, lawn equipment, and storage
- Hobby space or a full workshop
That’s why working with an experienced local builder or company is key—they understand how people actually use these spaces in Kansas.
Common Garage Sizes (And What They’re Good For)
2-Car Garage
Typical Size: 22’–26’ wide x 20’–24’ deep
Best For:
- 2 standard vehicles
- Minimal storage
Tight fit if you have trucks or want workspace
3-Car Garage
Typical Size: 30’–36’ wide x 22’–26’ deep
Best For:
- 2 vehicles + storage
- Extra room for tools or toys
- Small workshop area
This is one of the most popular options recommended by custom home builders in Olathe and the surrounding areas.
Detached Garage or Shop Designs
Typical Sizes:
- 24×30 (basic shop)
- 30×40 (very common)
- 40×60+ (serious workspace)
Best For:
- Boats, trailers, RVs
- Full workshop setups
- Business or hobby use
Many homeowners in Paola and Louisburg work with a local contractor near them to build a shop that fits their land and lifestyle.
How to Decide the Right Size
1. What Are You Storing?
Think beyond just vehicles:
- Do you own a boat or pontoon?
- Do you plan to buy an RV or trailer?
- Need space for tools or equipment?
A local builder with experience will help you plan for all of this upfront.
2. Do You Want a Workspace?
If you plan to:
- Work on vehicles
- Build projects
- Run a small business
You’ll want extra depth and width, not just parking space.
3. Think About the Future
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make: Building for today only
Instead, plan for:
- Growing families
- More vehicles
- New hobbies
- Equipment upgrades
A trusted custom home builder near Paola or Olathe will always recommend going slightly bigger.
4. Ceiling Height Matters Too
Don’t forget vertical space:
- Standard: 8–9 ft
- Better: 10–12 ft
- Ideal for RVs/lifts: 12–16+ ft
Higher ceilings = more flexibility (storage racks, lifts, larger doors)
5. Property & Local Regulations
Depending on where you are in Miami or Franklin County, you may have:
- Setback requirements
- Size limits
- HOA restrictions (especially near Olathe)
A local contractor or building company will help navigate this.
Popular Garage & Shop Combos in Kansas
Many homeowners are choosing:
- Attached 2–3 car garage + detached shop
- Garage with extended bay for boats or trailers
- Shop with living quarters (barndominium style)
These setups are especially common in Louisburg, Paola, and rural Franklin County.
Cost vs Size (What to Expect)
- Bigger = more upfront cost
- But also:
- More functionality
- Higher property value
- Less need to upgrade later
In most cases, going bigger upfront is cheaper than adding on later.
Common Questions About Building a Shop or Garage
What size garage do I need for a truck?
At least 24’ deep and wider than standard. Trucks need more space than cars—especially full-size pickups.
Is a 30×40 shop big enough?
Yes—for most homeowners, a 30×40 shop is a great balance of space and cost. It fits vehicles, storage, and workspace comfortably.
Should I build attached or detached?
- Attached: Convenient, cheaper
- Detached: More space, flexibility, better for shops
Many people in Paola and Louisburg choose both.
How tall should my garage door be?
- Standard: 7–8 ft
- Trucks: 8–10 ft
- RVs: 12–14 ft
How do I find the right builder near me?
Look for a local, trusted custom home builder or contractor with:
- Experience in Kansas builds
- Strong reviews
- Portfolio of garages/shops
- Knowledge of local codes
When it comes to garages and shops, the biggest mistake is building too small.
If you’re in Paola, Louisburg, Spring Hill, Olathe, Ottawa, Miami County, Johnson County and Franklin County, your space needs to handle:
- Vehicles
- Boats & trailers
- Tools & storage
- Future growth
The best move is working with an experienced, local custom home builder or contractor near you who can design a space that fits your life—not just your lot.
CAL Construction, Your Local Builder for a Custom Home Build
When it comes to building the home of your dreams, choosing the right partner makes all the difference. CAL Construction is a trusted custom home builder in Miami County and Franklin County, Kansas, dedicated to bringing your vision to life with quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Whether you’re starting fresh on a new build or customizing every detail of your forever home, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact CAL Construction today to discuss your project and take the first step toward creating the home you’ve always imagined.