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Essential Upgrades for Your Best Barns Garage: Doors, Windows, and Lofts
What Are the Essential Garage Kit Upgrades?
The most critical upgrades for any DIY garage kit focus on functionality, access, and airflow. While the standard kit provides a sturdy shell, essential garage kit options like windows, side entry doors, and proper flooring turn that shell into a usable workspace.
Most Best Barns kits do not include the main garage door or windows, so you must budget for these separately. We highly recommend installing a "man door" for easy daily access and choosing a concrete slab over a wood floor if you plan to park vehicles inside. Additionally, utilizing loft space in taller models like the Maker's Loft can double your storage capacity.
Finally, do not overlook ventilation; adding ridge vents or a cupola is vital to keep the interior cool and prevent moisture buildup. By planning these garage kit upgrades early, you ensure your new space is bright, accessible, and comfortable.
Key Takeaways
- Plan Windows Early: Nobody likes a dark garage; add windows for natural light but check your wall space and security needs first.
- Door Realities: Most Best Barns kits give you the framed opening, but you still need to buy the actual garage door from a local shop.
- The "Man Door": Seriously, add a side entry door so you don't have to lift the massive overhead door every time you need a rake.
- Loft Potential: Use that vertical space! Models like the Maker's Loft XL are perfect for hiding holiday decorations and keeping the floor clear.
- Concrete vs. Wood: If you park a car inside, go with concrete; road salt and dripping water will ruin a wood floor in no time.
Why Should You Add Windows to Your Garage Kit?
Standard garage kits often come with solid walls, which is great for security but terrible for working conditions. If you plan to use your new building as a workshop, a mechanic's bay, or even a potting shed, you are going to need light. Working in a dungeon is no fun.
Single-Hung Windows
The most popular upgrade is a standard 18x36 inch single-hung window. These let in light and give you great cross-ventilation.
Since Best Barns kits use standard stud framing, you can cut the opening anywhere you want between the studs. You have total control.
Gable Windows
Adding a small window high up on the gable end adds a nice touch of class.
More importantly, it lets light into the loft area which can otherwise be very dark and gloomy.
Shutters and Planters
If curb appeal matters to you (or your HOA), adding vinyl shutters and flower boxes instantly makes the garage look like a cute cottage rather than a utility shed.
What Door Upgrades Are Essential for Access?
Doors are the most used part of any building, so you want to get them right the first time.
The Main Garage Door Just a heads-up: most Best Barns kits provide the framed opening (usually 8x7 feet), but not the door itself. You will buy this from a local supplier.
- Upgrade Tip: Spend the extra cash on an insulated garage door. Even if you don't heat the garage, insulation keeps the interior way cooler in the summer and quieter when you are running power tools.
The Side Entry "Man Door" Do not skip this. A "man door" is just a standard entry door on the side of the building. Without one, the only way to enter is to lift the large overhead door. That is a huge hassle if you just need to grab a screwdriver or a battery charger.
- Installation: You can frame this into any side wall you choose. Most people pick a door with a glass window to add a little extra sunlight.
How Can You Maximize Vertical Space with Lofts?
The biggest advantage of wood kits like the Tailored Titan Tall or Maker’s Loft is that massive roof height. Don't let it go to waste.
Split Lofts
Many kits come with "split lofts" which are storage platforms on either end.
This leaves the center open for high clearance. This is perfect if you have a car lift or need to swing long 2x4s around.
Full Lofts
If you need maximum storage, you can often bridge the gap to create a full second floor. Just ensure the "live load" rating can handle what you plan to store.
Stairs vs. Ladders
If you grab the Maker’s Loft XL, it actually comes with a full staircase.
For smaller kits, you will likely use a ladder. If you do use a ladder, secure it to the wall so it doesn't slide out while you are carrying heavy boxes.
Should You Choose a Concrete Slab or Wood Floor?
You have a major decision to make regarding what you walk on.
- Concrete Slab (Best for Cars): If you are parking a daily driver, pour concrete. Wet tires, dripping oil, and road salt will destroy a wood floor in a few years. Concrete is permanent, fire-resistant, and easy to keep clean.
- Wood Floor Kit (Best for Workshops): Best Barns offers a "FortressFloor" option. This is sturdy and much easier to install than concrete. It is also softer on your feet if you stand at a workbench all day, but we do not recommend it for wet vehicles.
How Do You Keep Your Garage Ventilated?
A garage can get incredibly stuffy, especially in July. You need to let that hot air out.
- Ridge Vents: These are a must if you use shingles. They allow hot air to escape from the very peak of the roof.
- Cupolas: A cupola is that little "hat" on top of a barn. While it looks decorative, a functional cupola with louvers acts like a chimney. It pulls hot air out of the loft and keeps your garage significantly cooler.
Have any questions or would like to place an order? We'd love to help! Chat with our friendly customer service team by calling 1-844-945-3625, chatting in on our website or email us at customersupport@wildoaktrail.com. We look forward to hearing from you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a garage door opener in these kits?
Yes. However, some trusses act as collar ties, so you might need a "low headroom" kit or a jackshaft opener that mounts on the wall beside the door.
Are windows included in the kit?
Typically, no. Windows are usually sold as optional add-ons so you can choose exactly how many you want and where to put them.
Can I cut a door opening anywhere?
Mostly, yes. Since the walls use standard stud framing, you can place windows and doors almost anywhere as long as you double up the studs (header).
How much weight can the loft hold?
Most Best Barns lofts are rated for 40 PSF (pounds per square foot). This is standard for residential storage but not meant for heavy gym weights.
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