Neighborhood homes typically feature garages that should provide amplebrspace for the two-vehicle family as well as bikes, kids' sports equipment andbrthe requisite workbench/paint-can shelf. But over time, the paraphernaliabrbegins to encroach on the Escalade and, before he knows it, Dad is parking inbrthe driveway. It's time to reclaim the garage and return the space to itsbrintended purposes. And, in the process, discover how cool and efficient yourbrhome's storage space can actually be.
FIRST THINGS FIRST
Before tackling an update or renovation of your garage, determine yourbrbudget. From there you can prioritize your goals for the best method to corralbryour messy mess. Then a day of organization is in order. Toss the trash, banishbrthe broken sports equipment and donate toys and treasures your household nobrlonger uses. All of it!
After the dust has settled (and the tears dried over the scooter someonebrcan't believe you gave away), you arebrready for action. Make a list of your goals. Do you want to create better storage?brGet the bikes up and out of the way? Do you need an organization system forbrsports gear? Would you like an assembly that can be added onto as your budgetbrallows? Do you have the time and patience for a DIY project or does abrprofessional install seem the only way to go?
FIND A PRO
Like many home improvement projects that seem like an easy weekend job,brinstalling an efficient garage storage system can be quite a chore. Companiesbrthat specialize in garage renovations, like GarageExperts in North Fort Worth,brcan design and customize products to best suit your needs, saving you time andbrsuccessive trips to the home improvement store. Plus, garage pros can bestbraddress your design questions and even refinish your floor to the envy ofbreveryone on the block.
Expect to explore a variety of storage options—from open shelving tobrcustom cabinets. When it comes to hard-to-corral items such as garden tools andbrunwieldy sporting equipment, a slat-wall system with relocatable hooks, hangers,brbaskets and bins should get the job done. Also be sure to address your fifthbrwall: the ceiling. It's the perfect place to install a storage system forbrseldom-used items such as Christmas décor and ladders.
Once you've transformed the garage into a space that's clean and well-organized,brdon't forget about safety. Get your garage door inspected by a pro; ensure sensorsbrwork properly and your spring is in good shape. A fire extinguisher should bebrwithin easy reach (which you know how to use) plus smoke and carbon dioxidebrdetectors installed. You might also update lighting and place sensors to letbryou know when you've pulled your vehicle in far enough.
Finally, consider covering stained or cracked concrete floor with anbrepoxy finish. Not only will your garage look like a dealership showroom, but thebrsurface will also be durable and easy to clean. And the next time your blockbrparty gets rained out, move the festivities into your garage without thinkingbrtwice.