What was built to fit two cars but cannot fit two cars? Canadian garages!
Garages these days are used for a lot more than just storing our cars. As much as homeowners value space, garages often end up being dumping grounds for both useful items and junk.
Often they are the place that all that extra “stuff'” that isn’t inside your home goes like seasonal products, tools, athletic gear and so much more. Yet, truth be told, even with all its functions a garage is often one of the most neglected areas in the home when it comes to organization and functionality. It also tends to be an eye sore in many cases so we just try to keep those doors closed…
The good news is that with a bit of planning your garage can become an area that is not only good looking but well laid out and easy to navigate. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
1. Clean and Toss – The most cost effective and valuable first step in making your garage work is to get in there, sort through the current clutter and get rid of all the things you don’t need anymore. Take those items to the dump or donate them to local charity if applicable. Sweep the floor and pat yourself on the back for a job well done.
2. Categorize – Take a look at what is left and start thinking about categorizing items. Examples may be sporting goods, seasonal items, power cords, outdoor tools, etc. Similar items should be stored together for practicality so think about how many different areas you need and what items you need to get to the most for easy access.
3. Make a Plan – Take a look around and do a mental inventory in your garage for storage areas. Thing about hooks, shelving storage units, wall space, corners and cabinetry. Where may handy items like these go, what sizing would you need to accommodate the items you have?
Items like a loop hook are perfect to store things like extension cords…
Or what about a J Hook for those garden tools? Off the floor and easy access…
Storage cabinets for the garage like these below designed with bar pull handles on tall and upper cabinetry also allow ample storage above. Accessories and a valance over the workbench add light and a clutter free work space (plus look great)…
4. Seasonal Considerations
Think about what you need and when. Biking season is pretty much over, so why not put those wheels up and out of the way? A bike storage rack not only gives you more floor space, but it protects your bike for next year.
Same goes for skis! With this easy set up, you’ll never be looking for that one pole again when you’re trying to hit the slopes…
5. Consider Clear Bins
Vertical space can be a good place to hang items off season and cabinets for cleaning supplies or athletic equipment are helpful but you may also want some bins. Try clear bins though so you can easily see what is inside.
How about this sports bin? Stores balls, bats and gloves in one convenient location for all the athletes in your family!
6. Consider some help
As you can see, there are so many ways you can get the biggest bang for your buck from your garage space with a little elbow grease and some organization.
Maybe you have considered re-working your garage in the past, but the task seems a bit too daunting. If that’s the case perhaps it’s time to consider some professional advice.
That’s where local companies like Closets By Design Niagara come in who will not only come to your place free of charge for a garage design consultation, but will be able to discuss what you need and all the available products that are out there to make it happen!
As an incentive right now, Closets By Design Niagara is offering 40% off all their products plus free home installation. To get the ball rolling with no obligation fill out the form HERE.
Bottom Line: Organizing a garage isn’t a one-size-fits-all project . Every household has different needs and tastes. But, once you do it you will never look back (and hey, you may even fit a car in)!
About Closets By Design Niagara
Closets By Design Niagara is located in Niagara-on-the-Lake and has brought organization solutions to thousands of customers in the Niagara Region and beyond. Specializing in custom closets and home offices, Closets By Design Niagara can design an attractive storage space for any area of your home that needs organizing, from the pantry to the garage and everywhere in between.
p: 905-468-4611
11 Henegan Rd.
Unit 1 (PO Box 332)
Virgil, ONT L0S 1T0
www.niagara.closetsbydesign.com
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