Garage Organization Tips for a Productive Space

Garages have a way of becoming the defacto drop-off spot for old and seldom used items. Here’s how to make the space more useable

The garage can easily become a dumping ground for storage of everything from seasonal items to sports equipment to tools and unused furniture. But that’s a big waste of an otherwise useable space. Organizing its contents will save you time and may even earn you a little extra cash from the inevitable garage sale.

Here are a few ways to find a home for those infrequently used items and reclaim your garage as a functional space.

Pegboard

A pegboard is a garage organizer’s best friend, and installing one in a convenient place like above a work bench or on a wall can help you organize the smaller items like tools and extension cords that can clutter up an area in a hurry. Hooks and shelves will also make your handy tools highly visible and more accessible than if they were stuffed in a drawer or tool box.

Baskets, Bins and Shelves

Baskets, bins and organizing shelves come in all shapes and sizes. Pre-made shelving kits can be found at most home supply stores like IRLY, Windsor Plywood, Rona or Home Hardware, and can be easily adapted to fit your garage or storage area. If you’re feeling really adventurous try building your own custom shelving unit out of 2x4s and laminated shelving pieces.

Hooks

Never underestimate the versatility of a hook. Aside from the hooks on your trusty pegboard, you can find a hook or holder for just about anything; cordless drill holders, helmet and hat organizers, clothes hangers and eyeglass holders. Using bike hooks to suspend your bikes from the ceiling will save room and keep them from falling over.

High Shelving

If you have a high garage ceiling it’s also a good idea to install some high shelving units for items you may use only once in awhile. Things like winter clothing, paint cans, and even toxic or hazardous chemicals should be stored in a higher, less accessible area that’s out of sight and reach of children.

Overhead storage can be anchored to your garage’s ceiling and have adjustable verticals, or can be hoisted up and down, thereby making it easier to load and unload your stored goods. Some storage solutions are simply hoists to keep things like bikes, ladders, and if you’re so inclined, boats off the ground and out of the way.

Floor Refinishing

Give your old concrete floor a facelift. Garage floor coatings create a more finished look and protect against stains and tire marks. One such product is the RustOleum Epoxy Coating Kit.

Garage Heating

If you plan to spend time in your garage during the winter months, make it more comfortable by installing a Convectair convection heating unit and insulating the garage door with Reflectix reflective foil insulation or using an insulated garage door.

Organizational Consultants

If you think your garage cleaning task is too much for you to handle on your own, there are many organizational consultants and companies that can help you effectively achieve your goals and turn your storage area into a workspace again. Maybe you can even find room to park the car!