Your garage can do so much more than you can think. It can be a functional, organized and even stylish component of your home with a couple of specific DIY upgrades.
Whether it’s your workspace, storage place, or where the car goes, there’s always room for improvement. Trying some do-it-yourself projects can not just make it more functional, but it can also add value to the property and make your daily living more convenient.
Your Storage Space
What’s the most common issue for garage areas? Clutter. Garages inevitably become the default dump spot throughout the years for tools, sports gear, seasonal displays and everything else under the sun. One of the best ways to reclaim your space is to go vertical with storage.
Install shelving and heavy-duty hooks on the walls to raise items off the floor. Pegboards are best for storing hand tools and keeping them visible and accessible. Ceiling-mounted racks or pulley systems can clear up valuable floor space for items like bicycles or ladders.
You won’t have to be a seasoned woodworker to construct a storage wall or shelving customized for your space. Home improvement stores offer pre-cut lumber and free how-to sheets. Along with some brackets, a level and a power drill, a full wall can be refinished within the course of a single afternoon.
Maintaining or Upgrading Your Garage Doors
The garage door is the largest moving part inside your home and one of the most significant contributors to curb appeal and energy efficiency. If yours is old, noisy, or drafty, it’s time for a new one.
There are new garage doors made from materials like insulated steel, composite faux wood and aluminum. If you’re located within the Aurora, CO area and are thinking about a professional service, many homeowners rely on Don’s Garage Doors in Aurora, CO for installation and maintenance. You can also replace your door for enhanced home security and reduced heating or air conditioning bills if the attached garage.
Consider getting a smart garage door opener that connects to your phone. In addition to the capability for remote entry, it can be programmed to notify you if the door is left open. It’s a small cost for the added peace of mind and convenience.
A Workbench That’s Just Right for You
A good workbench is the center of a productive garage. You’re a weekend repairperson or a serious do-it-yourselfer; a serious work surface makes a big difference. It’s a matter of tailoring your bench to the manner you work.
Begin with a location that offers favorable lighting and convenient electrical outlets. Then decide if you want a fixed bench or a rolling bench with locking casters. You can include a pegboard back for tool storage or drawers on the bottom for storage.
You can reuse old kitchen countertops, use 2×4 lumber for framing, or even buy a pre-cut kit and take it easy on yourself. No matter what your skill level is, there’s a solution that’s within your budget and ability.
Lighting and Electrical Outlets
Most garages have inadequate, outdated lighting. Upgrading outdated bulbs with LED shop lights can immediately brighten the area, increase safety and make it a more pleasant room to work in. Use daylight-balanced LEDs if you want a more natural worklight for project or detail work.
If you currently have a single or double outlet configuration, it may be the perfect time to add some extra outlets. You can always benefit from multiple power sources for hassle-free, untangled extension cords and added convenience when powering tools, chargers, or appliances. Be sure to follow electrical safety codes or consult an electrician if you’re unsure about wiring. Even small improvements here can dramatically increase your garage’s functionality and comfort.
Install Flooring or Exercise Mats
Bare concrete isn’t always the best flooring for a high-traffic garage. It’s prone to stains, dust and wear and tear if you’re on it for long periods. The good thing is that some do-it-yourself-friendly flooring improvements can really have a big impact.
Interlocking rubber or vinyl tiles are a favorite choice and are available in numerous colors and patterns. Easy to install, comfortable and long-lasting too, interlocking tiles are a good option for the basement or bathroom floor. For a smoother, high-gloss finish, you can opt for epoxy coating, which won’t let the oil stains penetrate and can be infused with color flakes for a stone-like finish. Even a pair of well-placed anti-fatigue mats in front of your workbench or where you wash clothes can improve your experience within the garage without a total redo.
Small Projects With Big Impact
You can upgrade your garage without the need for a total reconstruction or a huge budget. Some carefully chosen DIY home improvements can transform the wasted space into a clean, organized and even enjoyable space. From innovative storage and energy-wise upgrades to a tailored workspace and up-to-date looks, your garage practically cries out for potential just waiting to be unleashed. Start with a single project and take it from there and before long, you’ll have a garage that works as hard as you do.
