Garage Ideas Archives - Page 3 of 7

Posted on January 5, 2024January 5, 2024 by Arthur K

PVC Slatwall Panels

The Benefits of PVC-Based Slatwall Panels

In the realm of modern storage and organization, PVC slatwall panels are becoming increasingly popular for their versatility, durability, and aesthetic appeal. These panels offer an ingenious solution to cluttered spaces, particularly in retail, workshops, and garages. This article explores the numerous benefits of PVC-based slatwall panels and why they are an excellent choice for both commercial and residential storage needs.

Durability and Longevity

Resistant to Wear and Tear: PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is known for its strength and durability. PVC slatwall panels can withstand significant wear and tear, making them ideal for high-traffic areas or spaces that require storing heavy items.

Moisture and Rot Resistant: Unlike traditional wood or MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) panels, PVC is impervious to moisture and humidity. This resistance to water ensures that the panels do not rot, warp, or swell, maintaining their structural integrity over time.

Versatility in Usage

Customizable Storage Solutions: PVC-based wall panels are equipped with horizontal grooves that can accommodate a variety of hooks, shelves, bins, and racks. This versatility allows users to customize their storage setup to fit their specific needs and can be easily reconfigured as those needs change.

Wide Range of Applications: From displaying products in retail stores to organizing tools in a garage, PVC slatwalls are adaptable to a multitude of environments and purposes.

Aesthetic Appeal

Sleek and Modern Look: PVC wall panels offer a clean and modern look that can enhance the aesthetic of any space. With a variety of colors available, they can be seamlessly integrated into any interior design scheme. Checkout our garage gallery for examples of Australian homes using StoreWALL’s garage wall panels.

Hide Clutter Effectively: By providing a designated space for each item, these panels help maintain an organized and clutter-free environment, which is visually pleasing and easier to navigate.

Space Efficiency

Maximizing Wall Space: PVC garage wall panels are an excellent way to utilize vertical space effectively, especially in areas where floor space is limited. By organizing items vertically, these panels free up valuable floor space. Think about ladders, bikes, tubs, and sports equipment. Off the floor and onto the wall makes good sense.

Easy Installation and Maintenance

Simple Set-Up: Installing PVC slatwall panels is relatively straightforward, making them a viable option for DIY enthusiasts. The panels can be cut to fit any space and are generally easy to mount.

Low Maintenance: PVC garage panels require minimal upkeep. They are easy to clean and do not need any special treatments or coatings to maintain their appearance and functionality.

Cost-Effective

Affordable Storage Solution: While offering a multitude of benefits, PVC slatwall panels are also cost-effective. Their durability means they can last a lifetime, and their flexibility reduces the need for additional storage furniture or systems.

PVC Slatwall Panels – Verdict

PVC-based slatwall panels present a compelling solution for efficient, durable, and aesthetically pleasing storage. Their adaptability to various environments, combined with the ease of installation and maintenance, makes them an ideal choice for both residential and commercial spaces. As storage needs continue to evolve, PVC slatwalls stand out as a practical, stylish, and economical option that meets the dynamic requirements of modern organization and display.

Posted on January 1, 2024January 1, 2024 by Arthur K

Best Garage Storage Solutions for 2024

As we approach 2024, homeowners are increasingly seeking innovative and efficient ways to organize their garages. The modern garage serves multiple purposes: it’s a place for cars, a workshop, a storage area for tools and outdoor equipment, and sometimes even a recreational space. Finding the best garage storage solution is key to maximizing this versatile space. This article delves into the best garage storage solutions for 2024, focusing on functionality, efficiency, and adaptability.

Smart Modular Storage Systems

What’s Trending: In 2024, smart modular storage systems are at the forefront. These systems are designed to be customizable and adaptable, catering to the ever-changing storage needs of a garage.

Key Features:

Customization: Configurable shelving units, cabinets, and wall-mounted panels.
Versatility: Suitable for storing everything from small tools to large equipment.
Integration with Technology: Some advanced systems include smart features like climate control sensors or inventory management apps.

Overhead Storage Solutions

Space Maximization: Overhead storage racks are a game-changer in 2024, especially for those with limited floor space. These systems utilize the ceiling area, perfect for storing seasonal items, sports equipment, or rarely used bulky items.

Innovation in Design: Modern overhead systems are incorporating advanced features like motorized lifts, allowing for easy access to stored items with a push of a button.

Wall-Mounted Slatwall Panels

Why It’s Popular: Wall-mounted slatwall panels offer a flexible approach to wall storage. They accommodate a variety of hooks, shelves, and bins, allowing homeowners to customize their storage based on their specific needs.

2024 Innovations:

Durable Materials: Newer materials are more resistant to moisture, wear, and weight.
Aesthetic Appeal: Available in various finishes to enhance the look of your garage.

High-Density Cabinet Systems

Efficient Storage: Cabinets provide a clean, organized way to store tools, gardening supplies, and automotive equipment. High-density cabinets in 2024 are designed to offer maximum storage with a minimal footprint.

Advanced Features:

Security: Enhanced locking systems for valuable tools.
Customizability: Adjustable shelves and modular designs.

Mobile Storage Solutions

Flexibility is Key: Mobile storage solutions, such as rolling tool chests and portable storage caddies, are increasingly popular for their versatility.

Benefits:

Portability: Easy to move around for various projects.
Space Efficiency: Compact designs that fit snugly in underutilized spaces.

Eco-Friendly Storage Options

Sustainability Matters: Eco-friendly storage solutions are gaining traction. These include recyclable materials and sustainably sourced wood products.

Integrated Workbenches

Multi-Functional Space: Workbenches with integrated storage are a must-have in 2024, offering a workspace combined with storage for tools and equipment.

2024 Trends:

Adjustable Designs: Height-adjustable surfaces for ergonomic comfort.
Built-In Power Supplies: Integrated power outlets and charging stations.

Maximizing space and flexibility

The best garage storage solutions for 2024 is one that maximizes space, offers flexibility, and caters to the specific needs of the homeowner. Smart modular systems, overhead storage, wall-mounted solutions, high-density cabinets, mobile units, eco-friendly options, and integrated workbenches are all leading the way in garage organization. As garages continue to evolve in their use and function, these storage solutions are adapting to meet the demands of modern homeowners, combining practicality with technological advancements.

Posted on December 23, 2023December 23, 2023 by Arthur K

Organised and clutter-free garage

In the quest for an organised and clutter-free garage, homeowners are turning to innovative storage solutions, and one of the most effective approaches is investing in garage wall storage systems. These systems not only optimize available space but also provide a sleek and efficient way to store tools, equipment, and other essentials. Let’s delve into the benefits and options for garage wall storage solutions.

Maximizing Vertical Space

Garage wall storage solutions capitalize on often underutilized vertical space. Slatwall panels, for instance, transform empty walls into versatile storage hubs. With panels constructed from durable materials like PVC Thermoplastic, they offer strength, durability, and the flexibility to accommodate various accessories.

Versatile Panel Options

Homeowners can choose from a range of panel options tailored to their specific needs and budgets. Basic Duty panels serve as an entry-level option, perfect for home applications, while Standard Duty and Heavy Duty panels cater to more robust storage requirements in garages and workshops. These panels are available in an array of colors, providing both functionality and aesthetics.

Customization and Flexibility

One of the key advantages of garage wall storage solutions is the ability to customize and rearrange accessories easily. Hooks, shelves, baskets, and bins can be effortlessly moved around on the slatwall panels, adapting to changing storage needs. This flexibility ensures that the storage system grows with the user and you maintain an organised and clutter-free garage.

Easy Installation

Installing garage wall storage solutions is a straightforward process. Most systems, like StoreWALL, offer simple DIY installations with the option to add InstallStrips for enhanced strength. These panels can be cut to size using basic tools, allowing for a tailored fit to any garage space.

Organizing with Accessories

To further enhance the storage capabilities of garage wall solutions, a variety of accessories are available. From heavy-duty hooks for tools to versatile shelves and baskets for miscellaneous items, these accessories provide a designated place for every tool or belonging, keeping the garage neat and accessible.

In conclusion, garage wall storage solutions offer an efficient and aesthetically pleasing way to conquer clutter and reclaim valuable floor space. Whether it’s a basic system for light home use or heavy-duty solutions for workshop needs, investing in garage wall storage is a strategic step towards an organized and functional space. Transform your garage into a well-ordered haven, where tools and equipment are not only stored but showcased in a systematic and accessible manner.

Posted on December 21, 2023December 21, 2023 by Arthur K

Summer Cleaning: Transform Your Garage Into an Organised Oasis

As the warmer months emerge and we start to spend more time outdoors, it’s the perfect time to tackle that long-neglected space – the garage. Over the colder months, garages often become a dumping ground for all things seasonal, leaving us with a cluttered and chaotic space. This spring/summer, let’s embark on a journey to reclaim our garages and transform them into organised oases of functionality. Follow these steps to efficiently clean out and transform your garage.

Set a Clear Goal

Before diving headfirst into the cleaning process, set a clear goal for your garage. Determine how you want the space to function and what items are essential to keep. Whether it’s creating a workshop, a storage area, or a home gym, having a vision will guide your decisions throughout the cleaning process.

Empty Everything Out

To effectively clean and organize your garage, start by removing everything from the space. This allows you to see the extent of your possessions and provides a clean slate for reorganization. As you empty the garage, sort items into categories – keep, donate, sell, or discard. Be ruthless in your decision-making to prevent unnecessary items from finding their way back into your newly organized space.

Deep Clean

With the garage emptied, take the opportunity to give it a thorough cleaning. Sweep the floors, dust surfaces, and consider pressure washing if needed. Check for any signs of pest infestations or water damage that may have occurred during the winter months. Addressing these issues early on will contribute to a clean and healthy environment.

Evaluate Storage Solutions

Assess your storage needs based on the categories you’ve established. Invest in shelves, cabinets, and storage bins to keep items off the floor and neatly organized. Utilise vertical space to maximize storage capacity and create a designated area for each category of items. Clear storage bins are particularly useful, allowing you to see the contents without having to open each one.

Organise and Label

As you begin to reintroduce items into the garage, organise them based on frequency of use and functionality. Create zones for specific activities or types of items, such as gardening tools, sports equipment, and seasonal decorations. Labeling bins and shelves will make it easier to locate items when needed and maintain the organization over time.

Create a Maintenance Plan

To ensure your newly organised garage remains clutter-free, establish a maintenance plan. Schedule regular cleanouts and decluttering sessions to prevent items from piling up. Encourage family members to adhere to the organisation system and designate specific places for frequently used items to be returned after use.

Donate, Sell, or Dispose

Dispose of unwanted items responsibly. Donate usable items to local charities, sell items online or at a garage sale, and dispose of non-recyclable or non-donatable items properly. Recycling centers and waste management facilities often have specific guidelines for different materials.

Embarking on a spring/summer cleaning journey for your garage may seem like a daunting task, but the rewards of an organised and functional space are well worth the effort. With a clear vision, strategic planning, and a commitment to maintaining order, you can transform your garage into an oasis of efficiency and accessibility. This spring/summer, reclaim your space and enjoy the benefits of a tidy and well-organised garage.

Posted on November 29, 2023November 30, 2023 by Arthur K

Securing Your Slatwall Panels

StoreWALL’s garage wall panels are designed to be installed with Installstrips. Installstrips are what we use to effectively secure your slatwall panels.

I was told earlier this week, that another local supplier of PVC slatwall panels (no affiliation with StorewALL) recommends that they be secured to the wall using Liquid Nails or a similar professional adhesive. Maybe I had misunderstood. I hope so.

Securing Your Slatwalls with Adhesive

Let’s assume it is correct, what is wrong with this approach?

If all I was hanging on my slatwall panels were lightweight screwdrivers, paper rolls, and maybe some clothing, it would probably be OK. However, you must consider what you are securing your Slatwall panels to. If your wall is plastered which most are, then the adhesive is secured to the paper face of the plaster, nothing more. You might add a few screws here and there but all you still have is the paper holding onto the PVC slatwall panel. Not good.

What about securing your slatwall panels using adhesive to a brick wall? This is better, but still not great. At least the brick wall surface is the actual brick wall, not an outer layer that can peel away.

What about the holding capacity of the slatwall panel? The adhesive might hold the panel to the wall but does it do anything to help hold the weight, 12 months from now, 3 years from now?

I would also add that any specifications listed by the supplier for wall panel strength and storage capacity needs to be retested for this novel installation method.

What makes installstrips better?

Installstrips are made from steel. Each one holds a minimum of 12 screw holes. You screw through the installstrip and onto the stud behind the plasterboard. Or you screw into the actual brickwork. Therefore not only do you have the strength of the installstrip supporting the slatwall panel, you also have the fastener and its grip on the wooden stud or brick.

Removing Your Slatwalls

Should you ever need to remove your slatwall panels, installstrips allow you to do this with very little effort. You don’t even need a screwdriver. When installed with Installstrips, the panels hang on the installstrips, so they can be lifted and removed. You won’t damage the panels and they can be returned when your work is done.

Let’s assume you used adhesive to secure your slatwall panels, and at some stage you needed to remove one panel? If that panel was at the bottom, the whole wall would need to be ripped off the plasterboard or brickwork. A disaster!

Check Before You Buy

A garage renovation just like any enhancement to your home requires an investment. Before you order your slatwall panels or agree to have a company install them for you, check how they will be installing them.

If the supplier doesn’t use Installstrips, then ensure that they will still fasten the slatwalls to your wall using screws or brick fasteners.

Posted on January 29, 2023June 10, 2023 by Arthur K

Storing Tools Over a Bench

Slatwall is the ideal garage system if you are looking at storing tools over a bench in your garage or storage area.

Cleaning out your garage and introducing a garage system to organise your items is a popular project for many Australian families during the summer. Spending more time outdoors sends us into our garages more often and the need to organise becomes more apparent.

Over the past few weeks, I have helped several customers with a small storage solution to sit over an existing or new bench they are building.

This is a very simple tool storage system with just a few panels for a small area. In most cases, it will simply be used for smaller lightweight tools that are regularly accessed.

Storing Tools Over a Bench – Garage System

When I was growing up, my father used to have hundreds of tools. Unfortunately, he stored them in drawers and buckets. It was a compact solution but never helped him when he was actually looking for the ones he needed. Over time he graduated to hang the most popular and useful tools on his wall or on a smaller plate on his bench. It kept them close at hand when he needed them.

Tool Shelf Ideas — Brite White over bench

If you have a small bench space in your garage then the last thing you want to do is to fill the bench with tools. The freer you can keep the bench, the more useful it will be for you. Using the wall space adjacent to your bench is the ideal space for those more popular smaller hand tools.

SlatWalls for Storing Tools

StoreWALL’s slatwalls are ideal for small and large projects and the best garage system for that over-bench area in your garage. Why? Rather than just having 1 rack of tools, or screwing tools holders into your wall, why not have the wall lined with a garage system which allows you to hang your tools anywhere on that wall area. Slatwall will line your wall with grooves which can then be fitted with hooks or shelving so you can store your items.

Designing Your Bench Space

A customer I spoke to this week, was designing a new cupboard and bench area in her garage. It was being made by a kitchen cabinet company. The length of her bench was 1.8m and the proposed wall area above the bench 500mm. I offered her two options for using StoreWALL. We could hang two panels one on top of the other giving her a height of 610mm (305.8mmx2). She could either cut the top panel down to make her 500mm height or raise her wall area to 610mm to fit the full panels. Given it was only in the design stages, she was leaning towards raising the height of her wall area.

Another gentleman based in Perth used 4 Heady Duty 1219mm panels for his over-bench area. He requested 2 of the 4 panels be cut in half so that he could join them to make 1.8m in length. The height using the Heavy Duty panels reached was 762mm.

StoreWALL panels are super customisable when it comes to size and shape. They can be joined to make the length you need. They can also be stacked to make the height you need. You can then cut them both vertically and horizontally to fit the exact space you need. Furthermore, if your wall has powerpoints or other items pocking out, StoreWALL panels can be cut to fit them and provide a clean finish to your wall.

Posted on August 21, 2022June 10, 2023 by Arthur K

Easy Garage Storage

Cleaning up your garage with a garage wall storage solution doesn’t necessarily mean you need to renovate your entire garage lining each wall from top to bottom with wall panels. Easy garage storage can be as simple as 2 Slatwall panels on your wall taking care of a handful of annoying items that are lying around.

Garage Gallery

If you look through our Garage Gallery you will notice the breadth of StoreWALL installations we have in Australia. Most of these have been sent in directly by our customers and are rather large with at least one main wall covered.

You will also see a handful of Easy Garage Storage installations that only contain 1 or even 2 panels on a garage wall. Some of them are focused on gardening gear, others on gym equipment.

Easy Garage Storage

Installing a couple of panels is super easy. At StoreWALL, we sell our 1219mm panels in small bundled packages which include the panels and some basic accessories. We also sell them as single individual panels so that you can design your own easy garage storage solution.

Take as an example the below picture which was sent in over the weekend. Cynthia in Balmain NSW purchased:

2 x Standard 1219mm Brite White panels
2 x Standard Duty Installstrips
1 pack of screws (plastered wall)

The installation of this pack would have taken her less than an hour. Installstrips were added on either end of each panel and one in the middle. 24 screws in total would have been used.

Easy Garage Storage – Accessories

The accessories selected by Cynthia included:

White Ledge Shelf
Two small bungee hooks – one is holding the ironing board, the second the gardening lopper.
Two Heavy Duty tool Hooks – holding about 6 gardening tools from forks to spades.
Vertical Tool Hook – holding the vacuum cleaner.

Easy Garage Storage – Single Panel

The second example is from Perth where the client used several single panels each installed separately on sections of his brick wall.

In the above example, the client in Perth used 2 Heavy Duty Cradle Hooks to hold his two Whipper Snippers. He also had a Heavy Duty Utility Hook to hold is blower and several foldable chairs.

Easy Garage Storage – Gym

Our final example is also from Sydney. This client used two 1219mm Brite White panels to store his gym equipment. This included 2 shelves to hold a range of mats. Alongside this he had several hooks to hold handheld weights and a Heavy Duty Utility hook to hold a medicine ball.

Posted on June 29, 2021June 10, 2023 by Arthur K

Garage Clean Up

I recently went through a house move and as many have written before, the exercise was long and tedious. Cleaning out the home was part 1, the garage clean up was part 2.

An important part of this clean out was identifying what was to be taken with us and what could be either thrown out, given away or sold.

Once we had done this, we also had to put a value on each item we thought could be sold and work out how and where to sell it. This was not easy.

Facebook Marketplace

Of the few things I have sold in the past, they have all been via Ebay. I have generally found the sales process very long with very few bites. In all honesty, Ebay is such a huge marketplace and if your item isn’t from an in-demand category, getting attention is difficult.

A friend of mine who also went through the same home and garage clean up process, told me that he had used Facebook Marketplace and that it worked quickly and easily.

I gave it a go and listed bookshelves, bedheads, wooden shelving, plates, a fridge, statues, gym equipment, lights and even the kitchen. Over a 3 month period I have sold pretty much all of it. The same items were also listed on Ebay and Gumtree. The Kitchen was the only item I successfully sold via Ebay. Everything else went via Facebook Marketplace. Most of the interest was via Facebook.

Giving Things Away

I generally found that if you want to give things away, it worked a treat. I gave our 20 year old fridge away within 24hrs. With everything else, you need to work on a price that has flexibility. People will ask you to half it, so ensuring you factor some of this in allows you to reach a reasonable price that also moves it on.

Another thing to look out for is that you will get plenty of enquiries. Some of these people will not be serious and will waste your time. I had one guy promise to pickup a bookshelf in 2 days and never arrived. When I tried to contact him, his Messenger was off and I couldn’t. In that time I had several others asking to collect it and I had told them it was sold. Very frustrating.

From what I understand, unlike Ebay they also don’t take a commission on these items which helps a little.

Large Furniture

The fridge I mentioned earlier was from our garage. I also managed to give away some old work out equipment and an old bed head that was in our garage. It all went within a few days of it being listed.

One of the challenges with larger furniture is how it is collected. In one case, the person paid me an extra $50 to deliver the book case them.

Council Drop Off

Monash Council offers an ability to drop off items such as used paint cans, car batteries and even empty gas bottles free of charge. You can also leave mattresses (for a small fee). I plan to take advantage of this to finish off my garage clean up.

So with a little research and preparation the home and garage clean up process can be made much a lot easier and successful.

Posted on May 23, 2021June 10, 2023 by Arthur K

21 Gardening Tools

Today’s post is about Dale and his 21 gardening tools which he managed to squeeze on one 1.2m x 1.8m wall. I think its quite an achievement and worthy of an article.

Email Exchange

I received this email from Dale about a month ago

Hi Sales,
Do you have a display centre or likes in Melbourne where your products can be looked at? We want to refurbish our garage storage however would really like to view what you offer before ordering.

I replied with

Hi Dale and thanks for your email. We primarily sell via our online store but I do welcome customers to visit me directly (my home) and I can show them the wall panels and accessories as well as answer questions.
You are more than welcome to do the same. I am home most days so can be flexible with times.
We are located in Ashwood (near Chadstone).
I can also help you with a quote of our solution once you have measurements of the wall area you want to cover.
My contact details are below if you would like to call me.

After a few more emails over a couple of weeks, we managed to organise a time for Dale to visit. Whilst he had the Brite White panels in mind, he wanted to ensure that the panel colour was not overly white.

The dimensions of his wall are 1.2m x 1.8m. Six of the 1219mm Brite White panels would be just perfect. Given the wall was a rendered brick wall, he also needed the mushroom nails for installation plus 6 Installstrips.

In terms of accessories, he started with a couple of hooks and then returned a few days later to buy some more. In fact he actually brought some of the tools with him so that we could test them out across a range of StoreWALL accessories.

21 Gardening Tools

This is how we matched them:

Rakes and Spades – Heavy Duty Tool Hook
Brushcutter – Vertical Tool Hook
Blower – Vertical Tool Hook
Brooms – Heavy Duty Tool Hook
Large Hammers – Heavy Duty Tool Hook
Branch Lopper – 300mm Power Tool Bracket
Axe and Picks – Heavy Duty Utility Hook
Power Cord – Cradle Hook

In total Dale was able to fit 21 Gardening tools on his small wall. I think this is quite an achievement. Most importantly it also meant that every gardening tool which was previously on the ground, was now up on the wall and out of the way.

Sherbrooke’s review can be found here.

Posted on May 11, 2021June 10, 2023 by Arthur K

Whitewood Wall Panels

The latest coloured wall panel to become super popular in the US is Whitewood. Whitewood Wall Panels by StoreWALL were introduced close to two years ago and have become super popular for garages all over the US.

StoreWALL Australia introduced the Whitewood colour about 12 months ago. When we first saw it we thought it would really appeal to people looking to build a new home office in their garage or a workshop.

The Whitewood colour is a very light in colour, similar to the BriteWhite. It also has a light grey wooden grain look running through it which makes it look as through it has a textured finish. The Whitewood Wall Panels are in fact smooth and come with all of the advantages enjoyed by wall StoreWALL PVC Slatwalls.

Whitewood Panel Features

Our Whitewood Standard Duty Panels are:

Made from hardened PVC.
100% Waterproof.
Can we washed down.
16.7mm in thickness.
Manufactured with the Whitewood colouring right through the thickness of the panel. If you dent the panel, you will see this colour.
Easily cut with a circular saw and drilled through.

Whitewood was introduced at the same time as the Barnwood Grey Wall Panel colour. Barnwood Grey is similar to the Whitewood but the wooden grain effect is a darker grey and which makes the wall a little darker and greyer.

Whitewood on the other hand is closer to the BriteWhite colour with a lighter grey wood grain running through it. It breaks the Whiteness of the wall but doesn’t darken it because the wooden effect is a light grey not a heavy grey like the Barnwood Grey panel.

How popular has it been?

It started off a little slow to be honest, but in no time we had sold out of the small supply we introduced to test the market. Our latest shipment included more stock and again this is now nearly finished.

In the US they offer it in both the Standard Duty and the Heavy Duty. At this stage we have opted only for the Standard Duty. However special orders can be placed in you are keen on the Heavy Duty version of the Whitewood Wall Panel.

Whitewood in Action

Below is a picture from a home on the Peninsula in Melbourne. This is in fact the second customer in the area which has purchased this garage wall panel colour. The homeowner installed it himself and gladly shared some photos. The garage walls are painted in White. He didn’t want more White and thought the lighter grey offered by the Whitewood was a nice contrast. I think the overall effect is great. It has not darkened the room at all.