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The garage is usually the most underutilized room in the home when it comes to storage. When a person decides to commit to getting their garage organized it can create the biggest “Wow” moment once the project is done.
The options are endless. You must first decide how you are going to use the space. There are many questions to ask:
1) How many cars do you want to park in the garage?
2) How much storage do you need?
3) Do you want a workbench?
4) Do you want to use it for any other purpose?
5) Do you want a color scheme?
6) Do you want to finish the floor?
After you determine how you want to use the space, follow these steps.
First, determine what you are going to keep. This is the perfect opportunity to get rid of anything you don’t want. Donate items that are useable, trash things that are broken, and organize like items together. Ideally, you remove everything from the space so that you can plan the space. Some clients order temporary space such as a POD to store everything while the project is getting done.
This client removed many of his personal items to get ready for the next stage of his project. It does show a good view of an empty garage that is not that attractive.
Remove any cabinets or shelves that you want to replace. Make any necessary repairs to the walls. If your garage is bare studs, consider adding drywall. This will make the space feel finished. If the walls are already there, take the time to paint. Freshly painted walls will make a huge difference to your finished project.
If you are proficient at wiring take time to add plugs and adequate lighting. If this is not your forte, hire someone to do the electrical work and finish the walls. Of course, you are in charge of selecting the paint color.
All garages have cement floors. Thoroughly clean the floor with a pressure washer. There are also options that can be done to make the floor more appealing than plain cement. Epoxy floors or hard durable tiles (pictured here) can be installed quickly.
This garage shows the durable tiles installed by Closet Factory. The tiles can be all one color or in several colors in any configuration. Each tile is 12” x 12” and looks amazing when completed.
Most garages require shelving for storage. There are many options: metal racks, open wood shelves, or custom cabinets. For some people planning storage can be daunting. Get the advice from an expert in this area. There are many things to consider such as how to get access to the shelves when the cars are in the garage, what is the best configuration for the workbench, and what is the best use of space.
It is important to work around electrical and the other numerous obstructions found in most garages. Consider what to do with the walls with no cabinets. There are many options of specialty racks, slatwall and other accessories that are specifically designed for the garage. They help to make every part of the garage useful.
No matter what type of cabinets or shelving selected, the installation is the step that brings the design to life. Make sure they are secured properly to walls.
If you do it yourself or hire a professional company, the end result will be a great organized space. Make sure to clean the cabinets thoroughly so they are ready to be filled.
Once the cabinets are in place, move everything back into the garage. Store like items together. Use plastic storage tubs for items like holiday decorations. Label each tub so everything is easy to find when needed. Some hard work now will pay off with saving time in the long run. What is more important is that your garage will now be useable, neat, organized and a space you will love to go.
The best part of the project is when it is complete and everything is finally moved in. The space that was once the most underutilized will be transformed. Be careful because the garage may become the most favorite room in the home.
