Space utilization is an important function of any efficient home, and often the garage can be the forgotten stepchild of gaining more space. In fact, if left unchecked, the garage can even turn into one of those dirty, dark, cluttered and scary places like something straight out of a horror movie. It’s time to take initiative and find ways to downsize your clutter and get a handle on your space outside.
Below is a list of six ambitious do-it-yourself projects you can accomplish in the next year.
Fold-Down Workbench
Most every working garage needs a solid workbench; the problem is they are notorious space eaters. With a little out of the box thinking, turn a common bench into a fold-down bench. Simply remove the four legs of your current bench, attach fencing hinges to the underside of the bench top, and a two-by-four securely attached along the studs of your garage wall. You can use threaded pipe for the outside legs that can be removed and placed alongside the studs of the wall when not in use.
Steel Pegboard System
Traditional pegboards can crack and warp over time, but is a great storage option. Consider an upgrade to this classic with the installation of a steel pegboard along the walls of the garage. Not only will a variety of storage systems be available, but the steel finish will provide a modern look to your garage.
Mud Room
Mud rooms are a great way to take preventative action towards muddy shoes and wet coats sullying your home. If you get tired of mopping up every time the kids come in from playing, or someone visits, consider this simple but effective addition to the garage. A good mud room will consist of wall hangers for coats and a shelving system for shoes. Go to a Machinery Access for used caterpillar equipment so you can do half the work yourself. You can build on, and even add onto your house for more garage and storage space here. For added effectiveness, try locating the mud room as close to the garage door leading into the house as possible.
Home Gym
If your garage is sitting empty or used minimally for storage, consider turning it into a usable space with the creation of a personal gym. Most garages are ideal spaces for the addition of gym equipment. Adding in a fitness center, treadmill, or bar bells is a great idea for reclaiming unused space. It can be a great place to get the fresh air you wouldn’t in a traditional gym.
Shelves, Hangers, Ties (Oh My..)
They key to a working garage is being able to walk in it to get what you need. To accomplish that, you can never have enough shelves, hangers, and ties. Consider that the top 18 inches of space on any wall is the most unused space in a house, run shelves along this area for seasonal storage bins. Hangers along studs can be used for bicycles, wheel barrels, and even golf bags while storage ties can hold unused power tools. The options are literally limitless.
Ceiling Storage Racks
If you have high ceilings in your garage, chances are you have space wasting away that is full of potential. With the addition of a few hangers and bin racks you have the option to store plastic bins (think Christmas ornaments), ladders, or even scrap lumber that is often covering the garage floor.
Contrary to popular belief, the garage area does not have to be reduced to a catch-all for everything that doesn’t have a place. With just a little bit of time and effort, it can be turned into a fully usable space for any residence. Whether it is extra storage space, a fresh set of paint and design, or even making a completely new room, the garage has plenty of potential.
Wow! That photo with the ceiling storage is impressive. You’re right that it is ambitious, but imagine how much more space you would have in your garage! That’s a summer-long project well worth the effort.