How to Remodel a Carport Into a Mudroom

Even a small mudroom can make a big difference in the home's function.


A mudroom can be the home’s missing link to clean floors and a catchall for everything from coats to sporting gear to the cat-litter box. But a remodel is hardy a small project even when compared to a renovation. Typically, a carport only has a concrete floor and roof, so the project may involve building walls and incorporating electricity and flooring before accessorizing. You’ll likely need approval and permits -- check with your city’s planning department before starting.


How much of the carport you require for the mudroom depends on the design. If you just need a few hooks on the wall and somewhere to set shoes, a space roughly the size of a powder room -- about 5 feet by 5 feet -- would be sufficient. If you want a closet, bench and small console, for example, 50 square feet could do. But if you want something more luxurious with generous storage, use the entire carport; just understand that the bigger the project, the higher the cost.


Mudroom walls should be squarely framed and the exterior flanked with vapor barrier, sheathing and siding or a finishing material that matches the rest of the home. Install the exterior door, and allocate any wall-sconce lighting, overhead lights and/or electrical outlets. After you decide on heating alternatives, such as tying into the home's duct system, using a baseboard heater or fitted insulation between the studs, you can begin finishing. Indoors, drywall is a good choice for the ceiling and the walls. Use a drywall sealer and then a durable, washable latex paint such as one with an eggshell or satin sheen; the walls of an entryway -- especially a mudroom -- are prone to scuffs and smudges. If you're building a closet, frame it with an opening sized for standard closet doors, or incorporate a cubby-style system for backpacks, shoes, toys, sporting gear and such.


Even if you have a concrete floor that appears in good condition, you may still need to fill cracks or level it before laying down flooring. Your flooring should be durable and slip-resistant since this is where your family will enter after working in the yard, splashing in puddles or running through the sprinkler. Choose something neutral that works with your home’s decor. Slate is both neutral and practical for the entryway, but textured vinyl flooring is just as sensible. Vinyl is also a lower-cost alternative that comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Use floor-gripping, rubber-backed mats for added dirt control.


Arrange a mudroom with useful storage solutions to keep it organized and make the most of its typically limited space, suggests the Decoist website. Set sea-grass baskets in cubbies or on shelves, then label the bins with the contents like “Toys” or “Work gloves,” or attach a photo of each family member to their own basket. An umbrella stand, mirror, coat hooks for backpacks or pool towels -- low enough for the youngsters to reach, of course -- a storage bench, a shoe rack and a corkboard, chalkboard or white board for reminders and messages could come in handy.

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