The Idiot's Guide to Building the Perfect Garage

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The Idiot's Guide to Building the Perfect Garage

Building an ideal garage is one of the biggest challenges to someone who's doing it for the first time. There is no official checklist for which items to buy or not buy. Everyone has different needs to tend to in this part of the house. So, review this beginner's guide to building the best possible garage.

Shelves and Cabinets

Most garages have pre-built wall shelves that support various items and weights. There are also many garages pre built with pegboards, or many enthusiasts install them on their own. Pegboards can be highly customizable and incredibly convenient, so they tend to be the most popular. Some builders prefer to install work shelves themselves. There is another option to use standalone bookshelves or storage cabinets that keep all of the things organized without having one stacked on top of the other.

Work Table

Many garage owners are interested in woodworking or fixing up cars. At the basic level, there are shelves to place a collection of tools for repairs, manufacturing or maintenance. Then, there is a workbench to help keep your tools organized and have easy access to supplies. Also, use the bench to support manual labor tasks like cleaning, drilling or saw cutting.

Ventilation System

Ventilation is necessary to remove air pollution and reduce humidity indoors. This is essential in a garage with running cars and appliances that increase the temperature. You may need a space that allows you to run one or more vehicles for long periods of time. Add an exhaust ventilation system to prevent the toxic fumes from building up as you work.

Flooring

Use good flooring in your garage. It isn't good to have any slipping hazards in the garage, especially if you are trying to do some precision work on your car. Use flooring that is easy to clean and that you can mark with work zones to keep things organized.  

Pest Control

Common pests like rodents or cockroaches are known to allow themselves into homes through garages. Even with the door closed, they get in through cracks that may or may not be visible. Prevent their entry by filling in openings along the door or walls. For additional protection, have a professional check for hidden parts of the house that can be sealed.

Activity Areas

The garage provides enough space to do more than one activity at the same time. Divide this space into separate sections for cleaning supplies, laundry, automotive work and supplies or the storage of miscellaneous items. This organization prevents you or anyone else from struggling to find items in a large garage.

The garage is not just a place for keeping the car until you plan to use it later. Garage owners also need this space for storage; however, it's easy for things to pile up and get lost underneath the piles. It's important for first-time garage owners to stay organized and make the best uses of their resources.

If you’re looking to stock your automotive supplies and need cleaners, wax, sealant, polish and more, make sure to check out our store. We have loads of products for every inch of your car. Start your garage off right with the right supplies.


Resources:

Organize with Pegboard | Family Handyman

Tool Workbenches | Dragon Fire Tools

Choosing a Work Table | Woodcraft

Garage Ventilation | Do It Yourself

Keep Pests Out | This Old House

Garage Flooring | NEAT Storage Designs