Timber Garages for 4x4s and SUVs

Will a 4x4 or SUV Fit in a Standard Garage?

Sometimes, but not always. Many modern SUVs and 4x4s are taller, wider and longer than standard cars, so it's important to check the garage dimensions before you build.

A bespoke timber garage can be designed around your vehicle, leaving enough room for roof racks, wider doors, storage and comfortable access.

At a Glance

Before ordering a garage for a 4x4 or SUV:

• Check your vehicle's height, width and length
• Allow for roof racks or roof tents
• Make sure the doors open comfortably
• Consider the approach to the garage
• Check whether planning permission is required for taller buildings.

How much height and width does a 4x4 garage need?

Height is generally the biggest problem; some of the larger 4x4s are over two metres high before having anything added to the roof. Given the adventurous nature of these vehicles, there is sometimes extra space needed above and beyond the car height for a roof rack or even a rooftop tent. Secondly, a timber garage will offer a softer landing for a car door than a block-built garage, but it is still better to allow enough room to open the doors and remove the need to exit through the sunroof!

Don't Forget Roof Racks and Roof Tents

Many 4x4s and SUVs are fitted with roof racks, roof boxes or rooftop tents, all of which increase the vehicle's overall height. These accessories can make the difference between fitting comfortably inside your garage and not fitting at all.

Before ordering your garage, measure your vehicle exactly as you intend to use it, including any permanent accessories. If you plan to add a roof rack or rooftop tent in the future, it's worth allowing for the extra height now rather than discovering the garage is too small later.

Can a garage be designed around your vehicle?

Our design team are able to help with these issues. Firstly we will cross check your car specifications relating to height and then be able to advise on both the suitable entrance height and internal height. Secondly as every Olson timber garage is built to your requirements they can build in space for storage, a work bench and crucially alter the roof structure to make the garage tuned around your car. A timber garage can be quite simple to build without planning consent, however the bigger and taller the structure the more likely you are to need consent rather than being able to proceed without permitted development.

One thing we may suggest is you consider a carriage house, you can explore more details on this link.

At Olson, we always try to accommodate taller, wider cars with clever roof design and larger doors thanks to our bespoke approach, often suggesting ideas that may have been overlooked for a timber garage. For more planning information visit our planning page.

Do you need planning permission for a taller garage?

In many cases, garages can be built under permitted development, but the maximum permitted height depends on where the building sits on your property and whether you live in a designated area, such as a National Landscape or conservation area.

When designing a garage for a 4x4 or SUV, the overall ridge height is only part of the picture. The entrance height and internal roof structure are often just as important, so it's worth checking your vehicle's dimensions carefully before finalising the design.

Head to the Planning Portal to find out more.

What else should you check before ordering?

Before ordering, check:

• Vehicle height
• Roof racks or roof tent
• Door opening clearance
• Boot opening
• Towbar
• Driveway slope
• Future vehicle upgrades.

One detail that's easy to overlook is the approach to the garage.

Even if the garage floor is level, a sloping driveway can temporarily increase the height of your vehicle as it passes through the opening. This is rarely a problem for smaller cars but can catch out taller 4x4s and SUVs.

What else can a 4x4 garage be used for?

A timber garage is hugely versatile, as a workshop, home for your car and storage. We can add windows, doors and log-stores wherever required, and adjust the shape and roof to make the most of the space you have. Don’t panic about a National Landscape or tight spot, our team can work around your car, just let us know the make and model when you ask for a quote.

Many owners also use part of the garage as a workshop, bike store or secure storage for camping and off-road equipment. Designing this space from the outset often makes better use of the building than simply increasing the parking area.

Build a Garage Around Your Vehicle

Every Olson timber garage is made to order, so we can design the building around your vehicle rather than expecting your vehicle to fit a standard garage.

Whether you drive a large SUV, a pickup or a fully equipped 4x4 with roof storage, we'll help you choose the right dimensions, roof design and doors for practical everyday use.

Explore our range of timber garages, or get in touch to discuss your requirements.