For most UK garage conversions, ODC Glass UK manufactured floor-to-ceiling slim-frame sliding doors with U values as low as 0.82 W/m²K, paired with a low-pitch glass roof, give the best balance of daylight, insulation and planning-permission success.
Glazing your garage conversion: how to transform your space
The right glazing for your garage conversion will make all the difference to its success and appeal. Sliding doors, bifold doors, glass corner openings, fixed glass roofs and opening rooflights are all exciting options to consider. Choose an architectural glazing designer to help you find glazing to suit your space, lifestyle and budget.
Who to talk to about glazing a garage conversion?
If you talk to a specialist glazing designer right at the start of your planning process, you’ll get inspiring examples, expert advice and adventurous design solutions you didn’t think possible!
It’s never too early to visit a showroom and explore your options, but below the ODC Design team takes you through some examples and projects. All guidance follows current UK Building Regulations.
A garage conversion with the wow factor: doubled in size, full height sliding doors plus an outdoor kitchen!
Are large slimline sliding doors suitable for garage conversions?
Sliding patio doors, possibly combined with additional fixed glass panels, create fabulous glass walls for a garage conversion. So, if your newly converted space has views over a great slice of the garden, we suggest you look at the ODC SL700 sliding system.
The ODC SL700 will give you floor-to-ceiling glass, dramatically altering a gloomy interior. Its minimal aluminium frames open effortlessly and can be specified with individual glass panels up to four metres wide and four metres high! If you want a new space with a wow factor, this bespoke sliding system will deliver.
Conversion and transformation of a redundant building with fixed glass walls 
Is corner glazing suitable for a garage conversion?
If your garage conversion has two adjoining outward-facing walls, corner glazing is an exciting option to consider. By installing two sets of sliding glass doors at 90 degrees, you’ll gain a fabulous wrap-around glass room.
Your architect will collaborate with an architectural glazing designer to calculate the load transfer from your garage wall to the steel beams and reinforced concrete frame required, and ensure that the design meets the energy efficiency standards set by UK Building Regulations Part L.
Corner glazing is more costly per metre², but it’s a glazing design guaranteed to create spectacular, wall-free, open access to the outside.
Complete property refurbishment includes detached garage conversion into a quiet breakaway space
Why are bifold doors best for some converted garages?
ODC high-performance bifold doors have been designed with UK lifestyles and homes in mind. From extra tall aluminium bifolds for that bit more light, to composite timber and aluminium for a warm, natural finish, there are five models in our range, all available with bespoke widths and openings to suit your project.
Getting hands-on at a showroom and talking to a glazing designer will help you appreciate the benefits of a bi- folding system for your converted garage. Folding doors might be the best glazing option, especially if the original garage has early C20 dimensions.
Bifold doors will give you the maximum opening width, which makes them a popular option for bringing light to a narrow attached garage with very limited opportunity for glazing. Bifolds have traffic doors and flush floor fittings too, making them a practical and versatile option for quick, easy patio and garden access.
How bifold doors could create a versatile glass wall for your converted space
Can a garage conversion have a complete glass roof?
A bespoke glass roof system is a great solution for glazing a garage conversion if privacy or the building’s aspect requires you to limit the number of glazed doors or windows. It’s a very secure option for a home office or business and will transform any garage conversion design.
Glass roof structures for converted garages can be designed with standard glass panels up to 4000mm x 2000mm, but even larger bespoke sizes are possible! Their slim contemporary aluminium frames can span the entire width of your garage.
Rooflines can be pitched or sloping to escape that low-ceiling feeling. Invisible horizon installations with glass-to-glass joints will add drama to your design.
Integral rooflights with automated opening mechanisms control ventilation extremely efficiently and are custom-built for the purpose.
Glass structure with solar control glass roof suitable for lean-to garage conversion
What glazing meets UK Part L for garage conversions?”
If you’re wondering if glass walls or floor-to-ceiling glazing will make your converted space chilly and difficult to heat, be assured that high-performance architectural glazing has the highest thermal insulation, safety and security standards, as well as great aesthetics.
ODC systems meet UK Part L standards and are typically specified by architects for homes in exposed and coastal locations, so you can be confident your garage conversion will stay cosy and snug, whatever the weather.
A pitched glass roof structure, rooflights and bi-folding doors will deliver light and comfort all year round.
Do I need planning permission to convert my garage?
Converting an integral garage is usually allowed within Permitted Development and does not require planning permission. Detached garages might require an application to establish a change of use. The Federation of Master Builders strongly recommends acquiring a lawful development certificate to demonstrate your garage conversion meets all planning requirements.
Do I need an architect for a garage conversion?
Larger projects, where load-bearing walls are being replaced by glass walling or roofs with glass structures, require the services of an architect. Their previous experience, professional design skills and their in-depth knowledge of building regulations will ensure your project is the best it can be.
Another benefit of engaging an architect for your garage conversion is that they will have experience working with good contractors and trades. They will have relationships with architectural glazing manufacturers and installers they trust and can recommend.
Two Very Different Garage Conversions
Project One: Bold extension includes converted garage
This project combines a rear extension with an ambitious linked garage conversion – a space designed for family entertainment and relaxation. We love the inspired addition of a garden kitchen and the fixed picture window ensuring the best views.
Project Two: Total property renovation includes detached garage conversion
This is a total home refurbishment which included the conversion of the original dark, unused garage behind the property. Corner glazing, full height sliding doors and it’s now a go-to space that alters the quality of life for this family. Bespoke aluminium windows ensure matched glazing throughout.
Did you know high-quality glazing for garage conversions, glass garden rooms and extensions is manufactured to exacting industry standards – you can read more about Acceptable Glass Standards in our Knowledge Hub.
If you’d like any guidance on glazing for your garage conversion project, please give us a call on 03300 586 792 or complete our contact form today. We’re happy to help.
Find out more about ODC modular glass extension design featuring fixed glass panels, glass roofs or roof lights, and sliding or bifold door systems
