A car garage is a structure that has walls and a roof and stores vehicles.
The word garage derives from the French garer, meaning shelter. It was introduced to the English language in 1902, alongside the initial installation of garages.
It is usually attached to the home but can also be a separate outbuilding. Moreover, some people use their garage to store other belongings besides from or as well as their car.
Hence, they can be multifunctional and act as workshops, storage or entertainment. Moreover, some people convert their garage into another room of the home – like a gym, studio, office or bedroom.
Carports are sometimes confused for garages. The difference lies with carports not being enclosed but being more of a cover.
Early History Of Garages
Garages came about in the 20th century and were known as motor houses. Pre-1914, they were pre-fabricated, and their style was in keeping with the house and the neighbourhood to which they belonged.
Back then, the car garage was made of timber. Very few of these have made it to the modern day. By the 1910s, the use of corrugated iron and asbestos became popular instead.
In the early days of the car, garages were vital in protecting it from the elements. Cars tended to rust, and engines would fail to start in adverse weather.
Modern-Day Garages
The British garage is usually single or double these days. It can be built into the home or detached, or sometimes even in the communal area.
Furthermore, garages benefit from metal doors nowadays that roll up and over. Some are electric too.
The need for such a structure now comes down to aesthetics and security. Cars are hidden away to make the home and its land look neat. Moreover, garages offer an extra protective barrier from robbery or damage.
