The award-winning company has launched a new garage conversion division to help home owners find that extra bit of space without having to go through the borrow and build worries of an extension.

The initiative has been launched to hit the market during the early months of the year, traditionally a time when families get together to discuss their budgets and home requirements. This year, thanks to the credit crunch, household costs will be top of the review list.

Frank Saunders, EYG's Marketing Director, said: "We've introduced our garage conversion package largely in response to requests from customers for new ideas in space creation. Enquiries are already pouring in and we expect this to be a major part of our home improvement business throughout 2009.

"Families who need that extra space have previously either opted for a bricks and mortar extension, which can be very expensive, or a conservatory, which is often the most cost effective route.

"While conservatories remain a very popular choice, we're now seeing home owners make the most of their garage space by turning it into an integral part of their home for use as a study, office, playroom, dining room or an additional bedroom. In most cases, planning permission is not required."

He added: "Converting a garage is a very cost effective way of increasing a home's living space. It will almost certainly add value to the property. The only downside is the car gets to stay in the cold".

EYG is one of the country's leading independent glazing and home improvement specialists with a turnover in excess of £20m and employing more than 300 people, mostly at their Wiltshire Road, Hull, headquarters.

In addition to sales to the public - home improvements, conservatories and now garage conversions - the company is a major provider to a wide range of commercial projects.