If you’re like most people, your garage is a cluttered mess. You’ve got boxes of holiday decorations taking up half the space, bikes and tools crowding the other half, and who knows what’s hiding in the back corner. But it doesn’t have to be that way! With a bit of organization, you can maximize every square inch of your garage.
Here are some tips and tricks to get you started:
Get rid of anything you don’t use.
The first and most crucial step to organizing your garage is to get rid of anything you don’t need. That includes old paint cans, boxes of junk, and anything else that’s just taking up space. If you’re not sure whether you need something, ask yourself when the last time you used it was. If it’s been more than a year, chances are you can live without it.
You can either sell or donate these items or toss them in the trash if they’re beyond salvage. But getting rid of the clutter is key to making the most of your space. You can also rent a storage unit if you’re not quite ready to get rid of everything.
Nonetheless, what matters is that you create more space to park your car in the garage.
Invest in some storage solutions
Once you’ve cleared out the clutter, it’s time to invest in some storage solutions. It could be anything from shelves and bins to hooks and racks. There are many great options available, so take your time and find something that will work for you.
Think about what kind of things you need to store and how often you’ll need to access them. For example, if you have a lot of sports equipment, you might want to invest in a storage system that keeps everything within easy reach. On the other hand, if you only need to store things like holiday decorations, you can put them up high where they’ll be out of the way.
Many hardware and home improvement stores have a wide selection of storage solutions. You can also find some great options online. Compare prices and reviews to find the best deal.
Incorporate ceiling treatments
Don’t forget about the ceiling if you’re looking to maximize your space. Incorporating treatments like overhead racks and hanging storage can help you use this often-forgotten area.
Hanging storage is excellent for holiday decorations, seasonal clothing, and even bikes. And overhead racks are perfect for storing boxes, totes, and other oversized items. Some even use the garage ceiling to store their RV or boat.
Choosing among the various ceiling treatments can be confusing, so take your time to find something that will work for you. But once you’ve installed them, you’ll be amazed at how much extra space you have.
Update the floors
Another great way to maximize your garage space is to update the floors. If your garage has old, cracked concrete, consider resurfacing it with epoxy. This project will make the area look nicer while also making it easier to keep clean.
Resurfacing your garage floor is a significant undertaking, so you might want to hire a professional to do it. But if you’re handy and up for a challenge, you can do it yourself.
However, ensure that you do your research before taking on this project. You’ll need to know what type of epoxy to use and how to apply it correctly. Otherwise, you could end up with a disaster on your hands.
Weatherproof the garage
Like the rest of your home, you need to weatherproof the garage. Doing so will help keep your belongings safe and dry, even when it’s raining or snowing outside.
Start by sealing any cracks in the foundation and walls. Then, add some insulation to keep the temperature inside the garage consistent. You can also buy a weatherstripping kit to seal the door and windows.
Since most garage spaces are nearby gutters and downspouts, a residential gutter cleaning might also be necessary. Clogged drains can cause water to seep into your garage, damaging the floors and walls. So, it’s essential to keep them clean and free of debris. You can also try diverting the water, reducing the chances of flooding and leaks.
Finally, consider investing in a dehumidifier. It will help control the moisture level in the air and prevent mold and mildew from forming. This way, your belongings will stay in good condition, and you won’t have to worry about them getting damaged.
Garage organization can seem daunting, but you can create more space to park your car and store your belongings with some planning and effort. You can start by getting rid of anything you don’t need. Then, invest in some storage solutions and update the floors. Finally, weatherproof the garage to keep your belongings in good condition. Once you’ve done all of this, you’ll be amazed at how much room you have.
