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You’re in the right place!  We are a husband and wife team who LOVE this business and love doing good work for good people.  We’re believe in the face-to-face version of this business built and not the one that hides behind websites and fake five star reviews.

As a husband-and-wife team we’ve been in and around the home business for over thirty years.  And because of that, we can’t possibly convey all of that experience in a few mouse clicks.  Reach out.  Connect.  Come see us at one of the home shows.  We are quietly one of the fastest growing renovation companies in Calgary and look forward to hearing about your project large or small. Just FYI, EVERY contractors bread and butter are smaller projects so don’t hesitate to reach out.

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Heated Garage Builds in Calgary: What You Need to Know

Luxury Garage Builds

Heated Garages in Calgary: The Complete Guide

In a city where January mornings hit -30°C, a heated garage isn’t a luxury — it’s genuinely life-changing. Here’s everything you need to know.

Heating System Options

1. In-Floor Radiant Heating (Best Option)

PEX tubing embedded in the concrete slab, heated by a boiler or electric system.

  • Pros: Most comfortable, even heat, melts snow off vehicles, quiet
  • Cons: Highest upfront cost, slow to respond to temperature changes
  • Cost: $12,000 – $20,000 for a typical 2-car garage

2. Forced Air Heater

Natural gas unit heater mounted near the ceiling.

  • Pros: Heats quickly, moderate cost, proven technology
  • Cons: Noisy, heats air (not floor), uneven temperature
  • Cost: $3,000 – $6,000 installed

3. Radiant Tube Heater

Long overhead tube that radiates heat downward.

  • Pros: Efficient, good for workshops
  • Cons: Hot spots, overhead clearance required
  • Cost: $2,500 – $5,000

4. Electric Baseboard

Simple electric heaters along walls.

  • Pros: Low upfront cost, easy install
  • Cons: High operating cost, limited output
  • Cost: $800 – $2,000

Insulation Requirements

A heated garage needs proper insulation or you’re just heating the atmosphere:

  • Walls: R-20 minimum (spray foam or batt + vapour barrier)
  • Ceiling: R-40 minimum
  • Slab: R-10 under the slab for in-floor heat
  • Garage door: R-16 minimum insulated door with good seals

Total Cost: Heated vs Unheated Garage

Item Unheated Heated
Base garage structure $28,000 – $48,000 $28,000 – $48,000
Insulation (walls/ceiling) Minimal $6,000 – $12,000
Heating system $0 $3,000 – $20,000
Insulated overhead door Standard +$500 – $1,500
Drywall & finishing Optional $4,000 – $8,000
Total $28K – $48K $42K – $90K

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⚠ Estimate Disclaimer: These are only ROUGH estimates that can vary wildly. Do not take these numbers as gospel. Having a defined scope of work and exact selections will give you clarity.

Operating Costs

  • Forced air gas heater: $30–$80/month in winter
  • In-floor gas boiler: $40–$100/month in winter
  • Electric heating: $80–$200/month in winter

Why It’s Worth It

  • Vehicles start better, last longer
  • Comfortable space for hobbies year-round
  • Snow melts off vehicles (less salt damage)
  • Prevents freezing of stored items
  • Adds real resale value

Ready to Build a Heated Garage?

Contact Olympic City Renovations for a free consultation.

Olympic City Renovations serves Calgary, Priddis, Okotoks, and surrounding communities. We specialize in kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations, basement developments, and luxury garage builds.

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Planning your renovation? Start with our complete Calgary renovation guide.