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Categories
Garage Walls Power Tools

How to Set Up a Workshop Wall Storage System

How to Set Up a Workshop Wall Storage System — From Blank Wall to Finished

A tool wall changes how you work. Not just how the garage looks — how you actually work. When every tool is visible and accessible in one move, you stop wasting time searching. You stop using the wrong tool because you can’t find the right one. You get more done.

This guide walks through the full process — from choosing panels to loading the last hook — for anyone planning a garage or workshop storage wall for the first time.

Step 1 — Decide What You’re Storing Before You Buy Anything

The biggest mistake people make is buying panels first and figuring out accessories later. Do it the other way around. Start with a list of everything you want off the floor:

  • Power tools: drills, impact drivers, circular saw, jigsaw, angle grinder
  • Garden tools: leaf blower, hedge trimmer, string trimmer, shovel, rake, broom
  • Hand tools: screwdrivers, spanners, pliers, hex keys, files
  • Extension leads, hoses, cords
  • Ladders
  • Anything else that currently lives on the floor or a shelf

This list tells you how much wall you need and which accessories to include. A wall loaded with garden tools and ladders needs heavy-duty hooks and deep panels. A workbench-height hand tool zone needs a magnetic bar and small hooks. Knowing this upfront means you order everything once.

Step 2 — Choose Your Panel Type

StoreWALL offers two panel grades for residential garages:

  • Standard Duty (304.8mm H, 1.2m or 2.4m length): the right choice for the vast majority of home garages and workshops. Handles hooks rated to 56–100kg with InstallStrips. Seven colours. Available in both 1.2m and 2.4m lengths to minimise joins.
  • Heavy Duty (381mm H, 1.2m only): for setups storing very heavy equipment — kayaks, surfboards, ladders with serious loads, or commercial-grade tools. Fewer colour options, larger panel height means fewer rows needed to cover a full wall.

For most Australians setting up a home workshop: Standard Duty in Weathered Grey or Brite White, in a mix of 1.2m and 2.4m lengths to fit the wall cleanly.

Step 3 — Calculate How Many Panels and InstallStrips You Need

Panels are sold in cartons. Each 1.2m carton covers 1.48sqm (0.37sqm per panel, 4 panels per carton). Each 2.4m carton covers 2.96sqm.

Formula: wall width × desired panel height in metres = total sqm. Divide by carton coverage and round up.

Example: a 5.4m wide wall to a height of 2.1m = 11.34sqm. Divide by 1.48sqm (1.2m carton) = 7.7 cartons — order 8 cartons. Or mix with 2.4m cartons to reduce the number of joins.

InstallStrips: order 1 per 1.2m panel (i.e. 1 per panel in a 1.2m carton = 4 per carton), or 2 per 2.4m panel. Standard Duty InstallStrips for SD panels, Heavy Duty InstallStrips for HD panels — they are not interchangeable.

Step 4 — Installation: InstallStrips First, Panels Second

The installation sequence is: mark studs → fix InstallStrips to studs → click panels onto InstallStrips. This is what gives StoreWALL panels their rated load capacity and their clean, screw-free appearance.

Step What to do Products involved
1 Choose your panel type Standard Duty for most garages. Heavy Duty for more weight capacity.
2 Measure and order panels Width × height in metres ÷ 1.48 (per 1.2m carton) = cartons needed. Order 1 InstallStrip per 1.2m panel.
3 Install InstallStrips Mark studs. Fix InstallStrips to every stud using 7g × 40mm screws. Brick/concrete: use mushroom nail anchors.
4 Click panels onto strips Panels hook onto InstallStrip claws from the top. No visible screws. Start from the bottom row and work up.
5 Plan your accessory layout before mounting anything Group by tool type: power tools at eye level, garden tools beside the door, hand tools near the workbench. Lay accessories on the floor first to test spacing.
6 Mount accessories — start with the heaviest HD Tool Hook, HD Universal Hook, Vertical Tool Hook. Mount at comfortable reach height. CamLok: slot in, quarter-turn to lock.
7 Mount shelves and racks Power Tool Storage Rack — lip installation (no CamLok). Wire Shelves with cord holders — CamLok. Position below eye level so tools are easy to see and reach.
8 Add the Magnetic Bar and Slot Bins Magnetic Bar at workbench height for spanners, drill bits, hex keys. Slot Bins below for batteries and chargers.
9 Add trims to finish Wide Corner Trim on exposed ends — Velcro-fixed, no adhesive. Division Trim between panel joins.
10 Load your tools and adjust CamLok allows any hook or shelf to be moved at any time — no tools needed. Adjust layout after a week of use. The wall changes as your toolkit does.

InstallStrips fix to timber studs using 7g × 40mm screws. For brick or concrete walls, use mushroom nail anchors of the appropriate size. The panel hangs on the InstallStrip’s claws — no screws through the panel face, no visible fixings.

The full installation guide with video is at storewall.com.au/installing-storewall — refer to it for wall-specific guidance (brick, concrete, metal stud, bare stud).

Step 5 — Layout Planning: Group by Tool Type

Before mounting a single hook, plan the layout on the floor. The most common mistake is placing hooks wherever they fit rather than where the tools will be used.

A functional layout groups tools by how they’re used and how often:

  • Power tools at eye level, near the workbench — you reach for these most often
  • Garden tools on the wall closest to the garage door — you grab them on the way out, return them coming in
  • Ladders on a side wall or end wall — they’re used infrequently, so they don’t need prime position
  • Hand tools and magnetic bar at workbench height — within easy reach while working
  • Slot bins and small shelves below the main hook zone — batteries, chargers, and small accessories at waist level

Leave gaps between tool groups — they get used together, not as a single mass of accessories on a wall. The magnetic bar typically works best at 1.2–1.5m from the floor. The Power Tool Rack works best at eye level where you can see which tool is which without crouching.

Step 6 — Install Accessories and Load Your Tools

CamLok installation: slot the hook’s L-shaped backplate into the panel groove, then rotate the CamLok dial a quarter-turn. That’s it — locked. To reposition, reverse. No tools, no screws, no holes left in the panel.

The Power Tool Storage Rack and the 812mm Metal Ledge Shelf use a lip rather than CamLok — they slide into the groove and rest there under the weight of the tool. Stable for moderate loads, but don’t load them beyond their rated capacity.

Start with the heavy items — ladders, garden tools, heavy hooks. Confirm positions and lock them with CamLok. Then add power tools, then hand tools, then the magnetic bar and small accessories. It’s easier to adjust once the heavy things are fixed.

What the Finished Wall Looks Like

A complete tool wall for a standard double garage might look like this, working left to right:

  • Left zone: garden tools — HD Tool Hook × 2, Vertical Tool Hook × 1, HD Universal Hook for hose and extension lead
  • Centre zone: power tools — Power Tool Storage Rack at eye level, Wire Shelves with Cord Holders below for circular saw and jigsaw, Power Tool Hook × 2 for spare drills
  • Right zone: hand tools — 609mm Magnetic Bar at workbench height, Tool Organiser × 1 for screwdrivers, Slot Bins × 2 for batteries and chargers
  • Side wall: ladder on 2 × HD Utility Hooks

The whole setup takes a weekend to install and typically costs less than a comparable set of tool cabinets — with the added benefit that every tool is visible and the layout changes whenever your toolkit does.

Ready to Plan Your Tool Wall?

Start with the Garage Tool Storage hub page — it has a quick-find table matching every tool type to the right accessory, with links to each product. For questions, call Arthur on 0411 280 646 or email [email protected].

Categories
Brick Walls Power Tools

Why You Need a Hammer Drill for Brick Walls

Drilling into brick or masonry is very different to drilling into timber, plasterboard, or steel. Many DIYers assume a standard power drill will do the job, only to find the bit overheating, the hole drifting off-centre, or progress grinding to a halt altogether. This is where a hammer drill becomes essential—and where the right masonry drill bit makes all the difference.

Why a Regular Drill Struggles with Brick

A standard power drill works by rotating the drill bit to cut through material. This method is effective for softer materials like wood or metal, but brick and masonry are dense and brittle, designed to resist wear and impact.

When using a regular drill on brick:

  • The bit relies purely on friction and cutting
  • Heat builds up quickly, dulling the bit
  • The drill can “polish” the surface instead of penetrating it
  • Holes often wander, making fixings less secure

The result is slower drilling, uneven holes, and a higher risk of damaging both the drill bit and the wall.

What a Hammer Drill Does Differently

A hammer drill combines rotational motion with a rapid hammering action. This hammering motion creates small, repeated impacts that help fracture the brick or masonry while the bit rotates and clears debris.

In simple terms:

  • The hammer action breaks up the brick
  • The rotation removes material efficiently
  • Less pressure is required from the user
  • Holes are drilled faster and more accurately

For tasks like mounting wall panels, shelves, or heavy-duty garage storage systems, a hammer drill ensures fixings are seated correctly and securely.

Why You Need a Hammer Drill for Brick WallsWhy 4-Cutter (4-Cross) Masonry Bits Are Better

Not all masonry drill bits are created equal. Traditional masonry bits typically feature a 2-cutter tip, which can cause vibration, chipping, and uneven holes—especially in harder brick or concrete.

4-cutter masonry bits (also known as 4-cross or quad-head bits) offer several advantages:

1. Cleaner, More Accurate Holes

The four cutting edges stay centred as the bit drills, reducing wobble and producing cleaner, rounder holes.

2. Less Vibration and Chipping

With cutting forces spread evenly across four edges, there’s less stress on the brick, helping prevent cracking or blow-out.

3. Faster Drilling in Hard Masonry

4-cutter bits are designed to work efficiently with hammer drills, allowing the bit to break and clear material more effectively.

4. Longer Bit Life

Because the load is distributed across multiple cutting edges, wear is reduced, meaning the bit stays sharper for longer—especially important when drilling multiple holes.

The Right Combination for Safe, Secure Fixing

When drilling into brick walls—particularly for load-bearing installations like garage wall storage—the best results come from:

  • A hammer drill with the hammer function engaged
  • A high-quality 4-cutter masonry bit
  • Correct hole depth and appropriate wall fixings

This combination ensures fixings sit properly in the wall, reducing the risk of movement, loosening, or failure over time.

Hammer Drill Tips

  • Cordless vs. corded: Cordless drills offer greater flexibility and are ideal for most DIY jobs, but corded versions often give stronger sustained power for repetitive masonry drilling.

  • Brushless motors: These are more efficient, run cooler and deliver better battery life.

  • SDS or standard chuck: For frequent heavy masonry work, an SDS-plus rotary hammer like the Makita model handles tough brick and concrete more effectively.

  • You can find a great and broad range at your local hardware store. Check out Bunnings and Total Tools.

Final Thoughts

Using the wrong tool for masonry isn’t just inefficient—it can compromise the strength and safety of what you’re installing. A hammer drill paired with a 4-cutter masonry bit delivers faster drilling, cleaner holes, and more reliable fixings, making it the correct choice for brick walls every time.

Whether you’re installing shelving, wall panels, or heavy-duty storage systems, investing in the right drilling setup pays off in performance, durability, and peace of mind.

Categories
Garage Hooks Garage Ideas garage makeover Home Gym Power Tools Sports Equipment

New Ultra Duty Garage Hook Range: Strength, Versatility, and Durability

At StoreWALL, innovation never stops. We’re excited to introduce our latest offering — the Ultra Duty Garage Hook range. Built for unparalleled strength and versatility, these hooks and brackets are designed to tackle the heaviest storage needs in your home, garage, or commercial space. With the ability to support up to 80kgs per hook, this new range is the strongest yet from StoreWALL.

Here’s a closer look at the four new additions to the Ultra Duty lineup and how they can transform your garage storage solutions.

1. Ultra Duty Wide Hook

If you loved the classic StoreWALL Wide Hook, get ready to be impressed. The Ultra Duty Wide Hook is 2-3 times larger and significantly stronger. Its design allows it to hold bulky and oversized items that the standard hook just can’t handle.

Key Specifications

  • Dimensions: 304mm (H) x 330mm (W) x 254mm (D)
  • Weight Capacity: Up to 80 kg

This hook is ideal for holding larger tools, sports equipment, or heavy-duty power tools. Its wide design offers maximum surface contact, ensuring stability and reducing the risk of items falling.

ultra duty garage hook2. Ultra Duty Utility Hook

Say goodbye to storage limits with the Ultra Duty Utility Hook. Modelled after the HD Universal Hook, this new version is much larger, making it perfect for items that require deeper, more secure support.

Key Specifications

  • Dimensions: 304mm (H) x 152mm (W) x 381mm (D)
  • Weight Capacity: Up to 80 kg

This hook is perfect for securing large gardening tools, electrical cords, hoses, or even sports equipment. Its generous depth (381mm) gives you the flexibility to hang long, oversized items safely and securely.

ultra duty garage hook3. Ultra Duty 635mm Surf & Paddle Board Bracket

Water sports enthusiasts will love the new 635mm Surf & Paddle Board Bracket. Specifically designed to make it easier to lift and store paddle boards, surfboards, and even canoes, this bracket allows for simple access.

Key Specifications

  • Dimensions: 203mm (H) x 152mm (W) x 635mm (D)
  • Weight Capacity: Up to 90 kg (200 lbs)

Unlike previous board brackets, this new design sits flush against the wall, which means no awkward lifting or tilting is required. Simply slide your board in and out with ease.

StoreWALL Ultra Duty Paddle Board Bracket4. Ultra Duty 381mm Surf & Paddle Board Bracket

For those with smaller surfboards or paddleboards, the 381mm version of the Surf & Paddle Board Bracket is a perfect fit. It’s a more compact option for people who have limited wall space but still want the same easy access.

Key Specifications

  • Dimensions: 203mm (H) x 152mm (W) x 381mm (D)
  • Weight Capacity: Up to 90 kg (200 lbs)

This version works well in tighter garage spaces or for those with smaller boards. It offers the same flush-to-wall design as its larger sibling but with a shorter depth, making it an ideal choice for compact spaces.

ultra duty garage hookWhat Makes the Ultra Duty Garage Hook Range Unique?

The Ultra Duty Garage Hook range isn’t just bigger and stronger — it’s smarter too. These hooks feature:

  • Two CamLoks for extra security: Unlike standard hooks with a single CamLok, the Ultra Duty hooks have two. This dual lock system provides increased grip, ensuring the hook stays firmly in place even under maximum load.
  • Larger backplates for stability: The wider backplate spreads the weight more evenly, reducing pressure on any single point of the wall panel.
  • Compatible with StoreWALL Heavy Duty Wall Panels: While these hooks work with standard StoreWALL panels, we recommend pairing them with Heavy Duty Wall Panels and HD InstallStrips if you plan to load them to their full capacity of 80 kg.
Categories
Bike Storage Home Gym Power Tools Shelving Sports Equipment Workbench

Garage Wall Storage Can Be a Space Maker for Your Home

Clutter in the garage is a universal challenge. Between tools, sports equipment, gardening supplies, seasonal décor, and household overflow, the garage can quickly transform from a useful storage area into a chaotic catch-all.

The good news? Systems like StoreWall and other garage wall storage solutions can reclaim that lost square footage, turning your garage into a streamlined, organized, and highly functional extension of your home.

The Problem with Floor Storage
Most garages are overwhelmed because everything ends up on the floor. Bikes lean against walls, bins are stacked precariously, and power tools are buried under holiday decorations. This not only creates frustration but also wastes valuable space that could be put to better use.

The secret lies in looking up and making use of the vertical space that often goes untouched. By shifting storage to the walls, you clear the floor for cars, workbenches, or open space, instantly making the garage feel larger and more usable.

What Makes StoreWall Different
StoreWall is a premium wall-mounted storage system that uses heavy-duty slatwall panels combined with interchangeable accessories—hooks, baskets, shelves, and bins. Unlike pegboards or basic shelves, StoreWall panels are:

  • Durable and load-bearing – Built to support heavy tools, sports gear, and bulky items.
  • Customizable – Hooks and shelves lock in place and can be moved easily without tools.
  • Moisture- and stain-resistant – Ideal for garages, which are exposed to fluctuating temperatures and occasional spills.
  • Attractive – Available in finishes that blend with your garage or home workspace, elevating the aesthetic instead of looking purely functional.

How Wall Storage Creates Space
By getting bikes, tools, and bins off the ground, you create the room needed to comfortably park your car without squeezing around obstacles.

  • Defined Zones – Wall systems make it easier to dedicate space for specific categories—gardening on one wall, sports equipment on another, and tools by the workbench. This organization reduces wasted time searching for things and prevents duplicate purchases.
  • Seasonal Rotation Made Simple – StoreWall accessories allow you to swap items in and out as seasons change. For example, hang snow shovels and sleds in winter, then easily switch to gardening tools and hoses in spring.
  • Maximizing Vertical Real Estate – Most garages have tall ceilings, and StoreWall panels can run from floor to ceiling, multiplying usable space without expanding the footprint of your garage.
  • A Safer, Cleaner Space – Getting gear off the floor eliminates tripping hazards, keeps items away from moisture, and makes sweeping or hosing down the garage far easier.
  • Beyond the Garage – Although StoreWall and similar systems are often marketed for garages, their applications extend into the laundry room, basement, craft room, or even a home gym. Anywhere clutter tends to pile up, wall storage can transform chaos into order.
  • A Smart Investment in Space and Value – Garage wall storage isn’t just about convenience; it can also add value to your home. A clean, well-organized garage is appealing to future buyers, signaling that the property is well cared for. More importantly, it gives you the freedom to truly use your garage as intended—whether that’s for vehicles, hobbies, or a workshop.

Final Thoughts
StoreWall and other garage wall storage systems aren’t just about tidying up; they’re about making space where none seemed to exist. By moving clutter from the floor to the wall, you gain room, safety, and efficiency. It’s a simple upgrade with a transformative impact on how you use and enjoy your home.

If your garage has become more of a storage unit than a functional space, it might be time to look at your walls—not your floor—for the solution.

Categories
Bike Storage Garage Hooks Garage Ideas garage makeover garage wall panel colours Garage Walls Gladiator Plastic Containers Power Tools

Compare Garage Storage Solutions from Gladiator, StoreWALL, and StorEase

In the realm of garage organization, three major brands stand out: Gladiator, StoreWALL, and StorEase. Each offers unique features and benefits, catering to various needs and preferences. In this article, we compare garage storage solutions focusing on these 3 brands and basing our evaluation on ease of installation, durability, customization options, and cost-effectiveness.

The article below is based on the video I prepared a few years ago in which I compare garage storage solutions from Gladiator, StoreWALL, and StorEase. Note that the Gladiator solution has very limited availability in Australia as the distributor closed their business. You can however find some Gladiator accessories on eBay, Amazon and via this online store. The availability of StoreWALL and StorEase has not changed.

Garage Storage Review

Ease of Installation

Gladiator:

  • Installation Process: Gladiator offers a straightforward installation with its GearTrack and GearWall systems. Panels can be mounted on studs for drywall installations. They can also be mounted onto brick walls.
  • User-Friendly: Comes with easy-to-follow instructions and requires basic tools.

StoreWALL:

  • Installation Process: The video focuses on StoreWALL Basic Duty wall panel which is equivalent to Gladiator and StorEase. StoreWALL however also offers Standard Duty (its most popular range) and Heavy Duty, a premium range of garage wall panels. StoreWALL’s accessories feature a CamLok system, simplifying the attachment of accessories and panels.
  • User-Friendly: The installation is intuitive, with a focus on secure and robust mounting.

StorEase:

  • Installation Process: StorEase provides a simple rail system that is easy to mount and configure.
  • User-Friendly: Designed for DIY enthusiasts, making it accessible for home users with minimal tools.
compare garage storage solutions

Durability

Gladiator:

  • Materials: Accessories are made from high-strength steel. Panels are made from heavy-duty plastic, offering excellent durability.
  • Weather Resistance: Wall panels are resistant to moisture, rust, and corrosion, suitable for various environments.

StoreWALL:

  • Materials: Its full range of wall panels are constructed from industrial-grade PVC, providing exceptional durability and impact resistance. All accessories are made from heavy steel making them super strong and durable for all light and heavy uses in the garage.
  • Weather Resistance: All wall panels are waterproof and resistant to mold and mildew, making them ideal for all conditions.

StorEase:

  • Materials: Made from light aluminum which is strong and durable. Accessories are robust and also made from metal.
  • Weather Resistance: Made from metal, the panels and accessories are weather resistant but not as hard wearing s the heavier PVC panels offered by StoreWALL and Gladiator.

Customization Options

Gladiator:

  • Flexibility: Offers a wide range of hooks, baskets, shelves, and cabinets, allowing for extensive customization.
  • Aesthetics: Available in various finishes and styles to match different garage decors.

StoreWALL:

  • Flexibility: Highly customizable with an array of accessories, including shelves, bins, hooks, and baskets.
  • Aesthetics: Available in multiple colors and textures, providing a polished and professional look.

StorEase:

  • Flexibility: Offers basic customization options with a focus on essential accessories like hooks and shelves.
  • Aesthetics: Functional design with fewer aesthetic choices compared to Gladiator and StoreWALL.

Cost-Effectiveness

Gladiator:

  • Price Range: Mid to high range, reflecting its robust build quality and extensive accessory options.
  • Value for Money: Good balance of cost and quality, making it a solid investment for long-term use.

StoreWALL:

  • Price Range: Higher price point due to premium materials and durability.
  • Value for Money: Offers excellent longevity and resilience, justifying the higher initial cost.

StorEase:

  • Price Range: More affordable compared to Gladiator and StoreWALL.
  • Value for Money: Cost-effective solution for basic storage needs, though with limited customization and durability.

Conclusion – Compare Garage Storage Solutions

Choosing the right garage storage system depends on individual needs and preferences. Availability and budget are key considerations as is the aesthetic look of your garage and the customisation offered by the accessories.

  • Gladiator: Ideal for those seeking a balance of durability, customization, and ease of installation at a moderate price point.
  • StoreWALL: Perfect for users prioritizing high durability, weather resistance, and a polished aesthetic, despite a higher cost.
  • StorEase: Suitable for budget-conscious users looking for straightforward, functional storage solutions with basic customization options.

Each brand offers distinct advantages, making them suitable for different applications and user requirements. By evaluating your specific needs, you can select the most appropriate system to enhance your garage organization.

Categories
garage makeover Man Cave Power Tools Slatwall StoreWALL

The Allure of the Australian Man Cave

Understanding the Popularity of Personal Sanctuaries

In recent years, the man cave has evolved from a trend into a staple of the modern home. These personal sanctuaries offer men a retreat from the pressures of daily life, a space to unwind, engage in hobbies, or socialize. This article explores the multifaceted reasons behind the rise in popularity of the Australian man cave and its significance in contemporary culture.

Origins of the Man Cave

The concept of a man cave is not entirely new. Historical precedents include the study or library of a Victorian home, where the man of the house retreated to ponder important matters or indulge in reading. Today’s man caves, however, have expanded beyond these early iterations into fully realized personal spaces that serve multiple purposes.

The Psychological Appeal

Identity and Self-Expression: Man caves provide a canvas for personal expression. In a world where individuality can often be compromised, these spaces offer men the chance to showcase their interests, collections, and tastes without compromise or judgment.

Stress Relief and Relaxation: They serve as a sanctuary for rest and rejuvenation. The therapeutic nature of a space where one can detach from the stressors of work and family life is invaluable for mental health and overall well-being.

Autonomy and Control: Within the household, decision-making is often a shared responsibility. A man cave gives its owner complete autonomy over one defined area, fulfilling a desire for control and independence.

Australian Man Cave: Whilst the Australian man cave shares all characteristics of the universal man cave, it does have some unique features including a collection of sporting memorabilia, a pool table, a weights or gym area, a collection of water sports equipment, and a fascination with power tools.

australian man cave
Source: slate.com

Social and Cultural Influences

Evolving Gender Roles: As gender roles continue to evolve, the man cave has become a space that respects the need for personal time and space, reflecting a modern understanding of balance in relationships and family dynamics.

Entertainment and Hospitality: Man caves are often equipped for entertainment, with large-screen TVs, gaming consoles, and bars. They serve as an informal setting for social gatherings, sports viewing parties, and a relaxed atmosphere for camaraderie.

Rise of Hobbyist Culture: With the growing popularity of hobbies such as gaming, homebrewing, and collecting, man caves offer the necessary space to engage in these activities without encroaching on communal living areas.

Economic and Real Estate Factors

Home Value Addition: A well-constructed man cave can increase the appeal and value of a property. It is seen as an attractive feature that adds functional living space to a home.

Cost-Effective Leisure: With the rising costs of leisure activities outside the home, man caves offer a cost-effective alternative where one can enjoy similar experiences without recurring expenses.

The Way Forward

Man caves are no longer just a fad but a reflection of the modern man’s desire for a space that caters to relaxation, hobbies, and social interactions. They represent the importance of personal space in today’s fast-paced world and underscore the need for environments that support individual pursuits and mental well-being.

As society continues to recognize the importance of personal space and time, the man cave will likely remain a popular and enduring feature of the contemporary home, evolving with the changing tastes and technologies that define personal leisure and entertainment.

Categories
Garage Hooks Pegboard Power Tools Slatwall

Using low-cost Pegboards in Garage Organization

Garage organization is crucial for homeowners looking to maximize space and maintain order. One common solution for tool storage and organization is the use of pegboards. Pegboards can be purchased from all major hardware stores. However, while cheap pegboards may seem like an economical choice, they come with several weaknesses that can compromise their effectiveness and durability. This article explores the drawbacks of using low-cost pegboards in your garage.

Compromised Durability

Low-cost pegboards are often made from lower-quality materials like thin-pressed wood, metal, or low-grade plastic. These materials are prone to warping, cracking, and breaking, especially under the weight of heavier tools. This fragility limits the type and amount of equipment you can safely store. Over time, the wear and tear from regular use can render these boards unusable, leading to the need for frequent replacements.

If a lot of cases, where MDF is used and has been painted. Regular use can cause chips and scratches that are difficult to repair.

Limited Weight Capacity

One of the most significant drawbacks of inexpensive pegboards is their limited weight capacity. They are often unable to support heavier tools and equipment, which is a critical consideration in a garage setting. This limitation not only restricts what you can store but also poses a safety hazard if the board or hooks give way under too much weight.

Poor Aesthetic and Fit

Low-cost pegboards usually offer limited options in terms of size, color, and design. This lack of variety can make it challenging to find a board that fits well with the aesthetics of your garage or home. Additionally, cut-rate boards might not fit properly against the wall, leaving gaps that reduce stability and visual appeal.

Lack of Customization

Higher-quality garage wall storage systems often come with a range of accessories and customization options, allowing you to create a storage solution tailored to your specific needs. Cheap pegboards lack this versatility, offering only basic hooks and limited arrangement options. This restriction can lead to inefficient use of space and difficulty accessing frequently used tools.

Combined with a limited range of accessories, cheap pegboards can quickly turn into a throw-away solution.

Environmental Impact

Lower-quality materials often have a higher environmental impact, both in terms of manufacturing processes and the need for frequent replacements. Investing in a more durable garage wall storage system made from sustainable materials can reduce your environmental footprint while providing better long-term value.

Better Garage Storage Options

While the initial low cost of cheap pegboards can be appealing, their weaknesses in durability, weight capacity, aesthetics, customization, and environmental impact make them a less desirable choice for effective garage organization. Homeowners are better served in the long run by investing in higher-quality, more durable storage solutions that can reliably hold their tools and withstand the demands of a garage environment.

Categories
Garage Hooks garage makeover Power Tools Shelving Slatwall

Best Slatwall Accessories

Maximize Your MDF Slatwall with StoreWALL’s High-Quality Accessories

Explore the Best Slatwall Accessories for Your Home Garage

Recently, we’ve noticed a surge in enquiries from homeowners looking for superior slatwall accessories to enhance their MDF Slatwall Wall Panels. Common in retail settings, MDF slatwalls, characterized by 100mm spaced grooves and metal trim, are now finding their way into household garages.

Understanding MDF Slatwalls:

Design: MDF slatwalls are budget-friendly and popular in retail stores. However, their accessory range is primarily retail-focused and may not suit home garage needs.

Slatwall Accessory Options:

Online Availability: A search on platforms like eBay for ‘Slatwall Accessories’ reveals various hooks, shelves, and baskets. While adequate for light items like dustpans, they may lack versatility for diverse storage needs.

Ebay.com.au

Why Choose StoreWALL’s Accessories:

  • Robust Construction: Our accessories are crafted from steel and finished with powder coating, ensuring durability and longevity. They also feature rubber tips for item protection.
  • Extensive Range: Offering over 35 hook types, 15+ metal shelves, 8 basket styles, 4 bracket sizes, 15+ bins in various colors, and 4 Tote Bags, our range caters to a broad spectrum of storage needs.
  • Global Recognition: StoreWALL’s accessories are recognized as some of the best in Australia and internationally.
slatwall accessories

Adapting StoreWALL Accessories for MDF Slatwalls:

  • CamLok Removal: To fit our accessories onto MDF Slatwalls, we simply remove the CamLok. This modification allows the “L” shaped lip to fit into your MDF wall, supporting various items.
  • Result: While CamLok’s extra security is absent, our range offers greater depth and versatility. Exercise caution when handling stored items.
best slatwall accessories

Elevate Your Storage Game:

Transform your MDF Slatwall with StoreWALL’s wide array of accessories. Whether you’re storing garden tools, sports equipment, or household items, our solutions offer unmatched functionality and style for your home garage.

Categories
Power Tools

Power Tool Storage Rack

This month we added yet another new Shelf to our catalogue, the Power Tool Storage Rack. This new shelf is specifically designed to store multiple power tools and be used on your StoreWALL wall panels. It can also be used with many other slatwall and garage wall panel systems.

Power Tool Storage Rack

WALL MOUNTED POWER TOOL RACK

This Power Tool Storage Rack was originally designed to be screwed onto your wall. However, we have converted it into a versatile Rack for your slatwall installation allowing you to attach it to most slatwall systems available in Australia. Load your power tools onto the rack and have them easily accessible on your wall when you need them.

SUPPORTS UP TO FOUR POWER DRILLS

This new Rack has been designed to hold up to four power tools. Use it to store your driver drills, hammer drills, impact drills, and any other drill type you may own.

FREE YOUR WORKBENCH

StoreWALL is everything about making better use of your wall space. Our new rack is designed to utilise the unused space on your wall, freeing up your workbench and work area. Keep your expensive power tools free from kid’s hands by hanging them on your wall.

SUPER DURABLE STEEL

Our new Storage Rack is made super durable from powder-coated steel, which will resist rusting and last for years.

Power Tool Storage Rack

DESIGNED FOR SLATWALLS

Designed to work with your StoreWALL Panels. Simply slip it into your StoreWALL groove. Move it around your wall as you need to. No need to drill messy holes in your walls. Let your slatwall system do the work for you. Our Storage Rack will work with most slatwall systems on the market, including the StorEase system sold by Bunnings.

Note this shelf is not fitted with StoreWALL’s CamLok but like several of our other shelves, has a lip allowing it to be easily and securely fitted into the slatwall groove.

StoreWALL's Power Tool Storage Solutions

Power Tool Storage Rack Dimensions

  • 457mm (width) x 229mm (depth) x 6.4mm (height)

Power Tool Storage Ideas

Our Power Tool Storage Rack is one of many accessories StoreWALL offers for your power tools. Also check out our Power Tool Hook, Vertical Tool Hook, and our Tool Organiser. These accessories are also designed specifically to help you with your Power Tool Storage ideas.

Categories
Garage Hooks Power Tools

Organizing tools in garage

You learn a lot from your customers. This week I was met with several requests via our online chat service with the message “organizing tools in garage, can you help?”. Then came a long list of tools and items. It quickly dawned on me that sending them to the Hook section of our online store was not great service.

When you visit your local hardware store and you are after a hook to hold a ladder upright, you are usually guided to an aisle with 20+ alternative hooks. For some this can the ideal solution, for others its like “so now what, which do I choose”.

Unfortunately, online stores whilst giving customers control of their journey can also be daunting when customers are discovering what it is they want and need form you. Most don’t ask questions like they would in a store, if they can’t work it out, they move on.

Organizing tools in garage

In one instance this week, the customer sent me a long list of what is stored on their garage floor at the moment and said this is what they needed help with. Please recommend the appropriate way to store these items.

The list looked like this:

  • Something to hang 8 fishing rods together vertically
  • Hooks for Maxitrax hung horizontally
  • Something for fishing gear
  • Need to hang 1 skateboard
  • We have a wakeboard (think skinny boogie board)
  • There is a surfboard
  • Something to hang 4 x tennis racquets and clear plastic small tray for balls
  • Hooks for 2 electrical cords
  • Hooks for 2 hoses
  • There are 2 flat folded chairs
  • Hooks for 3 fabric foldable chairs in bags
  • Fitting for 2 shovels
  • Fitting for 1 pitchfork
  • There is a medium sized step ladder
  • We have a fan rake
  • Fitting for 2 brooms
  • There are 2 long garden shears/loppers
  • 2 saws
  • Multi hook on a rail thing for small garden tools
  • Fitting for bike pump
  • We need something for 2 wheelie shopping carts (the granny style soft fabric pull along ones)
  • There are 4 umbrellas (straight not curved ends)
  • Fitting to hang earmuffs and safety glasses
  • We have a sledgehammer and 2 axe/tomahawks
  • There is a spirit level
  • Basket type shelves for boots
  • Hook for dustpan/broom

Later on the same day, I received another enquiry and this time, the list was similar although focused on power related garden equipment:

“Want shed wall Rack for my Gardening Tools Brushcutters, Blower, Hedgers, Chainsaw, Rakes, Shovels”

These are all really great questions and probably represent 80% of what our customers are thinking about when they visit our online store and spend a few minutes browsing around.

So I invested a couple of hours preparing a quote for the first client and an email response for the 2nd. In that time, I reviewed all of the pictures we had on our site demonstrating how our accessories work. I also tested several scenarios in our workshop to ensure I was comfortable with what I was going to recommend.

In doing all of this I realised that we needed to be more helpful and given our store is online, this meant providing more information where you are likely to find it quickly.

StoreWALL Hook Options

Below is how I answered the “organizing tools in garage” question. Mind you, this took a few goes and the client helped with plenty of feedback.

This was my response:

  • Fishing Rods – I thought the best solution would be the S Hook as it would hold the rod up off the ground. The client in the end preferred the Pole Hook with the rod sitting on the ground.
  • Maxtracks hung horizontally – I preferred the HD Universal Hooks for this but the client went with the a 63mm Single Hook
  • Storage of Fishing Gear – I had recommended a basket for this but the client determined that they could an existing plastic bin hung on the wall with 2 x 254mm brackets.
  • For the skateboard, wakeboard and surfboard – I had recommended 2 x 254mm Angle Brackets with each item stacked side by side. These brackets extend 430mm off the wall. I had also provided the option of the Angled Pole Hook which the client preferred.
  • Tennis racquets – I had provided the option of the Wide Hook but the client went with a 190mm Single Hook.
  • The tray for balls – best option was one of our Large Bins
  • Electrical cords – Utility Hook
  • Hoses – Utility Hook
  • Flat fold chairs – Heavy Duty Universal Hook
  • Fabric foldable chairs in bags = I assumed they had a cord to be hung with and went with the Heavy Duty Universal Hook
  • Shovels and Pitchfork – Tool Hook
  • Step ladder – Heavy Duty Cradle Hook
  • Fan rake & Brooms – Tool Hook
  • Long garden shears/loppers – Box Hook
  • Hook for 2 saws – Heavy Duty Universal will carry them.
  • Multi hook  – Six Prong Hook
  • Bike pump – S Hook
  • Wheelie shopping carts – Cradle Hook
  • Umbrellas (straight not curved ends) – I tested and have added some photos below. The S Hook was the best option.
  • Earmuffs and safety glasses – 190mm Single Hook
  • Sledgehammer – Heavy Duty Universal Hook (depth is 228mm, may also be able to hold both the axe/tomahawk (below) on the same hook)
  • Fitting for 2 x axe/tomahawk – Heavy Duty Universal Hook
  • Spirit level – 63mm Single Hook
  • 1 shelves – 812mm Shelf + 2 x 254mm Brackets
  • Dustpan/broom – 63mm Single Hook
  • Shelf for boots – Angle shelf

StoreWALL Hook Matrix

Having done all of this work, I have now added a matrix on our Hooks page so that you can see the recommended Hook for common items. Hopefully this is easy to view and read and customers find it useful when working through our store.

Below I have some photos of the umbrellas that were mentioned above. These are your regular umbrellas with a straight handle. At the start, the Angled Pole hook seemed like the appropriate choice but the S Hook proved to be the best choice and I think is a great option for most items that are long.

Organizing tools in garage

Organizing tools in garage – S Hook in Action

The S Hook has two arms that wrap around the item, one at the back and one at the front. These arms can be moved up and down but on an angle. Due to this angle, they grip the pole really nicely. You can even move the pole up and down the wall and the grip remains.

Organizing tools in garage

If you are wondering about the second “Organizing tools in garage” request that came through, I provided the following response.

  • Brushcutters – Heavy Duty Cradle Hook, Vertical Tool Hook or the Wide Hook
  • Blower – Utility Hook or Heavy Duty Cradle Hook (depending on the size)
  • Hedgers – Heavy Duty Cradle Hook, Vertical Tool Hook or the Wide Hook
  • Chainsaw – 300mm Power Tool Bracket x 2
  • Rakes/Shovels – Tool Hook
Bruchcutter hook

Note that the Vertical Tool Hook is on its way to Australia. Hoping to have it available in early September.