How much does it cost to add a heated double garage to a bungalow in Rocky View County?

Adding a heated double garage to a bungalow in Rocky View County typically costs $35,000 - $65,000, depending on the foundation type, heating system, electrical requirements, and finish level.

The foundation choice significantly impacts your total cost. A concrete slab-on-grade foundation runs $8,000 - $12,000, while a full basement foundation under the garage adds $15,000 - $25,000 but provides valuable storage space. Given Rocky View County's expansive clay soils and 4+ foot frost line, proper excavation and foundation work are critical to prevent future settling and cracking.

Structure and exterior costs include framing ($8,000 - $12,000), roofing to match your existing home ($4,000 - $7,000), and siding ($3,000 - $6,000). The garage doors themselves range from $1,800 for basic insulated steel doors to $4,500+ for premium insulated doors with smart openers. Most homeowners choose 16' x 24' (384 sq ft) for a comfortable double garage, though 20' x 24' provides more storage space.

Heating and electrical systems add substantial cost but are essential for Calgary's harsh winters. A 220V electrical service to the garage costs $2,500 - $4,000, including a sub-panel and outlets. For heating, you have several options: extending your home's forced-air system ($3,000 - $5,000), installing a separate gas unit heater ($2,500 - $4,000), or adding in-floor radiant heating in the concrete slab ($4,000 - $7,000). In-floor heating is popular because it provides even heat and prevents freeze-thaw damage to the concrete.

Rocky View County permits and inspections are required and typically cost $800 - $1,500 total. You'll need a development permit (if changing the building footprint significantly) and building permits for the structure, electrical, gas (if heated), and potentially plumbing if adding a utility sink. All work must be inspected by accredited Safety Codes Officers under Alberta's Safety Codes Council system. The county is generally supportive of garage additions that comply with setback requirements (typically 3' from side property lines, 6' from rear).

Factors affecting your final cost include site access and soil conditions. If your lot has challenging access for concrete trucks or requires significant excavation through clay or rock, expect additional costs. Winter construction (November through March) adds 10-20% due to heated enclosures needed for concrete work and material protection. Many contractors prefer to excavate and pour foundations in fall, then complete framing and finishing through winter.

Professional guidance is essential for this project. The structural connection to your existing home, proper vapor barriers, insulation details, and heating system integration require experienced contractors. Find verified garage builders and general contractors in our Calgary directory who understand Rocky View County's requirements and Alberta's extreme climate conditions.

Next steps: Get quotes from at least three contractors, apply for permits early (6-8 week processing time), and plan construction timing around weather. Spring start allows foundation work in good conditions with completion before winter.