If your garage is more of a dumping ground than a place to park your car, it might be time for an upgrade. A few simple changes can transform your garage from a cluttered catch-all to a functional and organized space. Here are some upgrades to consider:
Get organized with shelving and storage solutions
If you can’t find what you’re looking for in your garage, it’s time to get organized. Shelves, cabinets, and overhead storage solutions will help you get items off the floor and out of the way. Plus, when everything has a designated place, it’s easier to keep things tidy. You’ll be able to find what you need when you need it, and your garage will look neater, too.
When choosing shelves for your garage, consider the weight of the items you’ll be storing. Heavier items should be on shelves that are made to hold more weight. If you’re unsure what weight capacity to choose, check with the manufacturer or retailer.
You also want to ensure that the shelves you choose are the right size for your garage. They should be wide enough to fit the items you plan to store, but not too wide that they take up too much space. And, if you have a lot of items to store, it might be worth investing in some taller shelves.
Finally, ensure the shelves you choose are easy to install and fit your budget. Many retailers offer free installation when you purchase a set of shelves, and there are various affordable options available online and in stores.
Motorize your garage door
If you’re still opening and closing your garage door by hand, it’s time for an upgrade. A motorized garage door opener is a worthwhile investment. It will make your life easier, and it will also increase the security of your home. When your garage door is connected to a motor, it’s more difficult for burglars to break in.
Additionally, many new garage door openers have features like smartphone compatibility and automatic lights. So not only will your garage be more secure, but it will also be more convenient. This fixture can be used for any purpose, and it’s a great way to save space on your garage ceiling.
Invest in flooring that can handle the wear and tear
Your garage floor takes a beating from foot traffic, cars, and dropped tools. Over time, all that wear and tear can take its toll on even the most durable flooring materials. That’s why you should choose flooring that can stand up to the elements and abuse.
When choosing flooring materials for your garage, it’s essential to consider the type of traffic it will see. Heavier items, like cars and tools, can cause damage to softer materials like carpet and vinyl. So choose a flooring material that can handle wear and tear.
Some popular flooring choices for garages are epoxy coatings, concrete, and tile. Epoxy coatings are tough and easy to clean, making them a good choice for busy garages. Concrete is also durable and easy to maintain, but it can be cold in the winter. Tile is another option that’s durable and looks great in any garage. It’s also easy to clean and resistant to staining and fading.
You should also consider your budget and the type of abuse the floor will see. Planning the budget for your garage flooring is essential to avoid overspending. Talk to a flooring expert to know which material is right for your space.
Add some light fixtures
Most garages have little or no natural light, which can make them feel dark and cramped. Adding some light fixtures will brighten things up and make it easier to see what you’re doing when you’re working on projects. Motion-sensor lights are a good option because they’ll turn on automatically when you need them and turn off when you don’t. And if you want to save energy, look for fixtures that are ENERGY STAR® certified.
When choosing light fixtures for your garage, consider the type of activity you’ll be doing in there. If you’ll use the space for projects, you’ll need a bright light that can provide ample illumination. Standard ceiling light or track light is a good option for this activity.
If you’ll use the garage for storage, you’ll need a light that provides ambient lighting. A lamp or recessed light is a good choice for this application. You should also consider the wattage of the light fixture to make sure it’s adequate for your needs.
These are just a few tips to help you get started on your garage makeover. With a little planning and some elbow grease, you can transform your garage into a space you’re proud of. So get to it and enjoy your new garage!
