The garage may seem like a place where you park your car for the night. But that is not putting it to its full use. If you want to get the most out of your garage, you need to make a few changes that can make the place more functional than a place for your car. Here are some things that you can do to make your garage the best place for your vehicle and your family.
Use Better Lighting
Most garages use minimal lighting. This is understandable for garages that people use only for storage and sheltering their vehicles. But if you want to work in the place, then installing brighter lights is a good move. For example, when you are trying to fix the head gasket on your Subaru, you want to be able to see the interior. You could have someone hold a light for you, but it is better to have your full attention on your work. As for what light to choose, bright LED lights are the best in duplicating natural light. With several LED lights overhead, everything should look pretty clear to you.
Install Larger Doors
One major mistake that many people make with their garage is to settle for the standard seven-foot size. But it is better to go up another foot and reach for eight feet. This will mean that you will have to make walls that are nine feet tall to accommodate them. The higher walls are a good choice since this will allow you to bring bigger things into your garage. If you are making a garage workshop, comfortable material unloading can be a big blessing and easier for you. It also allows you to strap things to the roof of your car or truck with no worries. Smaller doors can mean accidental damage if you forget about what is on your roof.
Increase The Storage Space
Your garage may already be a place for you to put all of your spare belongings. But you likely leave them laying down on the floor. Don’t let this happen and improve your storage options. There are several things you can do to make sure your garage will have good storage areas. These ensure that the place looks better and has zero clutter. For one, you can have proper shelving. Shelves should be around your planned work area. They are the best place to store your necessary tools and materials. You can also invest in a large table so that you can leave your projects on it while you are working on them.
Besides the shelves, a simple tool rack can do a lot for your workspace. Additionally, you should consider getting some storage cabinets. These are great for long-term storage since they add a layer of protection for any item you put into them. Consider placing something that you only use once or twice a year. If your garage has a roof area, you can invest in some roof trusses so that the garage has an attic. It will serve the same purpose as the attic in your main house.
Proper Heating
Your garage is going to need some good heating. This is for those late nights of repairs you are doing. Most garages are already fine with ventilation and keeping cool. All you need to do is open the door, and you have enough wind coming in. But the problem is when it is raining hard, or it is winter. The open ventilation of your garage is a disadvantage then. Make sure your garage is comfortable by adding heated floors and additional heating options. Warm floors are pretty simple. Radiant in-floor heating has hot water passes through pipes installed in the floor to keep it nice and toasty. Buying a space heater is also a good option. Finally, simple insulation in your garage walls and doors can help greatly in ensuring that your garage stays warm.
Get a Security System
Garages may be a great place to store your car, but it can also be very vulnerable. Most homeowners only secure their main house so thieves could get into the garage. They can then easily drive away from the car or any other expensive tools that you store there. Investing in a good security system is a great way to protect your property. Basic motion sensor lights can frighten away thieves, while an alarm can warn you of a break-in. Placing cameras around your garage door and adding locks to it can be a great way to discourage potential thieves.
Your garage can be a great place to work on a variety of projects. These upgrades can allow you to maximize your garage usage.
