In the modern quest for maximizing living spaces, transforming your garage into a home office stands out as a brilliant and practical solution. As more people embrace remote work, the need for a dedicated workspace has become paramount. This guide offers insightful advice on converting your garage into an efficient, comfortable, and stylish home office.
Assessing Your Space
Start With a Plan: Before diving into the transformation, assess the size and layout of your garage. Consider the amount of natural light, the garage door’s location, and the availability of electrical outlets. A detailed plan will help you visualise the office space and identify potential challenges.
Permits and Regulations: Check with local authorities for any permits required to convert your garage into a living space. Compliance with building codes and regulations ensures safety and avoids legal complications.
Designing Your Home Office
Insulation and Climate Control: Garages are not typically designed for comfort, so adding insulation is crucial. Insulate walls, ceilings, and the garage door to maintain a comfortable temperature year-round. Consider installing a heating and cooling system to ensure your office is conducive to productivity.
Lighting: Optimize natural light by installing windows or skylights. Supplement with artificial lighting solutions like LED desk lamps and overhead lights to create a bright and inviting workspace.
Flooring: Upgrade the garage floor for warmth and comfort. Epoxy coatings, interlocking tiles, or laminate flooring can transform the space and add a professional touch to your home office.
Furniture and Storage: Select ergonomic furniture to enhance productivity and comfort. Incorporate storage solutions such as shelving units and cabinets to organize office supplies, documents, and equipment, keeping the space clutter-free.
Technology and Connectivity
Electrical Upgrades: Ensure your garage has adequate electrical outlets to support computers, printers, and other office equipment. Hiring a professional electrician to upgrade your electrical system is advisable for safety and efficiency.
Internet Connectivity: Strong Wi-Fi is essential for a home office. If your garage has weak signal strength, consider using Wi-Fi extenders or a dedicated internet line for reliable connectivity.
Personalizing Your Space
Decor: Personalize your home office with decor that inspires creativity and productivity. Add plants, artwork, and personal items to make the space welcoming and uniquely yours.
Noise Reduction: Soundproofing your garage can help minimize distractions from outside noise. Use acoustic panels, weather stripping, and door seals to create a quiet work environment.
Final Thoughts
Converting your garage into a home office is a smart way to utilize unused space and enhance your work-from-home experience. By carefully planning and designing your office, you can create a functional and comfortable workspace that boosts productivity and creativity. Remember, a well-thought-out home office not only benefits your work life but also adds value to your home.
In Australia, the garage has traditionally been a multifunctional space, serving not just as a shelter for cars but also as a storage area for a myriad of household items, tools, and occasionally, even as a workspace or recreational area. However, a common observation across many Australian homes is that garages tend to be particularly cluttered and messy. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors, ranging from changing lifestyle patterns to architectural design and consumer behavior. This article delves into the reasons behind the messiness of Australian garages, shedding light on the underlying causes and potential solutions. It also introduces a range of solutions that can assist you to reclaim your garage.
Shifting Lifestyle Patterns
One of the primary reasons for cluttered garages is the evolving lifestyle of Australians. As people acquire more possessions, from sports equipment to seasonal decorations, the garage often becomes the go-to storage space. The rise of hobbies and home improvement projects has also contributed to the accumulation of tools and materials, often stored in the garage for convenience.
Lack of Adequate Storage Solutions
Many Australian homes, especially older ones, were not designed with sufficient built-in storage. As a result, garages become the overflow space for items that do not fit inside the house. Without proper organization systems such as shelving, cabinets, or racks, these items can quickly accumulate, creating clutter and disorganization.
The Consumer Culture
The surge in consumerism, driven by the ease of online shopping and the allure of sales, has led to an increase in household belongings. Many Australians find themselves purchasing items on impulse or in bulk, which, due to lack of immediate use or space inside the home, end up in the garage. This consumer habit exacerbates the issue of clutter, making garages appear messier than ever.
Multipurpose Use of Garage Space
Garages in Australia are increasingly being used for purposes other than parking cars. They serve as workshops, home gyms, and even entertainment areas. This multipurpose use, while beneficial, contributes to the clutter, as it introduces a variety of items into the space that are not always neatly organized or stored.
Procrastination and Lack of Time
The task of cleaning and organizing a garage can be daunting, especially when the clutter has been accumulating over time. Many individuals postpone this task due to its overwhelming nature or due to a busy lifestyle. This procrastination, combined with a lack of dedicated time to tackle the mess, results in garages remaining cluttered for extended periods.
Architectural Design and Planning
The design of some Australian homes does not prioritize garage storage efficiency. Garages are often designed to meet minimum size requirements for vehicles, with little consideration for storage or organization. This lack of foresight in design contributes to the challenge of keeping garages tidy and well-organized.
Seasonal and Infrequently Used Items
Garages often house seasonal items such as holiday decorations, winter clothing, and sports equipment, which are not used year-round. These items take up valuable space and contribute to the clutter, especially when not stored properly.
Reclaim Your Garage – Solutions and Strategies
Addressing the messiness of garages requires a multifaceted approach. You can adopt various strategies to mitigate this issue so you can reclaim your garage:
Implementing Efficient Storage Solutions: Installing shelving, cabinets, and overhead storage can maximize space and reduce clutter.
Utilise your walls: Wall storage solutions allow you to maximise the height and width of your walls as storage areas. Garage wall storage solutions enable the use of hooks, baskets, and shelves to safely store everything from sporting goods to power tools and even work boots.
Regular Decluttering: Setting aside time to sort through items and dispose of or donate those that are no longer needed can significantly reduce clutter.
Designating Spaces: Assigning specific areas within the garage for different types of items can help maintain organization.
Investing in Multipurpose Furniture: For garages used as multipurpose spaces, furniture that offers storage can be particularly useful.
Embracing Minimalism: Adopting a more minimalist approach to possessions can prevent the garage from becoming a catch-all storage space.
In conclusion, the cluttered state of Australian garages is a multifaceted issue influenced by lifestyle changes, architectural design, and consumer habits, among other factors. By acknowledging these causes and implementing practical solutions, you can reclaim your garage, transforming it into an organised, and functional space.
The concept of a spare kitchen has traditionally been associated with luxury homes, but as residential living spaces become more multifunctional, the trend of installing a secondary kitchen in the garage is gaining traction among homeowners seeking to maximize their space. This article delves into the practicalities and benefits of creating a fully functional spare kitchen in the garage, a trend that’s reshaping how we think about home efficiency and entertaining.
Understanding the Spare Kitchen Concept
A spare kitchen in the garage is more than just an overflow area; it’s a complete setup that replicates the functionality of a primary kitchen. This auxiliary space often includes essential appliances, ample countertop space, and storage solutions, making it an ideal spot for meal prep during large gatherings, canning, brewing, or as a dedicated space for cooking pungent foods that could otherwise permeate the entire house.
Benefits of a Garage Kitchen
1. Entertainment Hub: A garage kitchen serves as the perfect entertainment hub, especially when the garage doubles as a social space for hosting parties, family get-togethers, or sporting events. It keeps the main house free of traffic and mess during large events.
2. Home Value Addition: A well-designed and constructed spare kitchen can add significant value to a property, appealing to potential buyers looking for versatile and functional spaces.
3. Versatility for Hobbies: For those who indulge in culinary hobbies like home brewing, wine making, or preserving, a garage kitchen provides a dedicated area to enjoy these activities without cluttering the main kitchen.
Planning Your Garage Kitchen
1. Space Assessment: Evaluate the available space in your garage to accommodate a kitchen setup. Consider the layout that best suits your needs and available square footage.
2. Appliance Selection: Choose appliances that fit the scale of your garage kitchen. Compact or multi-use appliances can save space while still providing necessary functionality.
3. Storage Solutions: Efficient cabinetry and shelving are vital to keeping your garage kitchen organized. Opt for durable materials that can withstand temperature fluctuations commonly found in garages.
4. Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial, especially in a confined space like a garage. Investing in a good range hood and ensuring adequate airflow will maintain a comfortable environment.
5. Utility Access: Ensure that your garage has the necessary plumbing, electrical, and gas lines to support a kitchen. This may require professional installation and adherence to local building codes.
6. Décor and Comfort: A garage kitchen doesn’t have to be purely utilitarian. Adding personal touches with décor, lighting, and comfortable seating can create an inviting atmosphere.
Legal and Safety Considerations
Before embarking on the construction of a garage kitchen, it’s essential to check local zoning laws and building codes. Safety is paramount, so all installations should comply with regulations, and the use of fire-resistant materials is recommended. It’s also wise to consult with an insurance agent to understand how a garage kitchen may affect your home insurance policy.
Conclusion
The addition of a spare kitchen in the garage is a smart solution for homeowners looking to enhance their living space. It offers the convenience of extra cooking space, acts as an alternative gathering spot, and can be tailored to suit various hobbies and activities. With proper planning, design considerations, and adherence to safety standards, a garage kitchen can become one of the most valuable and enjoyed spaces in your home.
PVC slatwall storage systems are revolutionizing carport organisation, offering a blend of durability, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal. As carports increasingly serve as multi-functional spaces in homes, PVC slatwall storage provides an efficient way to manage and utilize these areas.
What is PVC Slatwall Storage?
PVC slatwall systems are made from high-strength polyvinyl chloride and feature adaptable grooves for various storage accessories. This customizable solution is perfect for diverse storage needs, from tools to sports equipment.
Advantages of PVC Slatwall in Carports:
Durability: PVC is known for its resilience and ability to withstand various weather conditions, making it ideal for carports that are typically semi-open spaces. Unlike wood or metal, PVC doesn’t rot, rust, or corrode.
Space Efficiency: By utilizing wall space, PVC slatwall systems free up floor space in your carport, making room for your vehicle and reducing clutter.
Customization: The modular nature of slatwall panels allows for customization. You can design the layout according to the specific storage requirements of your carport.
Aesthetic Appeal: PVC slatwalls come in various colors and finishes, enabling them to blend seamlessly with the existing design of your home and carport.
Ease of Installation: These systems are relatively easy to install, and the panels can be cut to fit any wall size, making them suitable for carports of all dimensions.
Carport Organisation with PVC Slatwall:
Versatile Tool Storage: Organize gardening and maintenance tools efficiently.
Seasonal Item Organization: Perfect for storing holiday decorations and winter gear.
Workbench Enhancement: Ideal for setting up an organized workspace in your carport.
Sporting Gear Storage: Efficiently store bikes, golf clubs, and more with dedicated racks and hooks.
Installation Tips for PVC Slatwall Systems:
Assess Wall Strength: Ensure walls can support the storage system.
Installation Options: DIY installation is possible, but professional assistance ensures safety and stability.
Select Appropriate Accessories: Choose accessories based on the weight and size of items to be stored.
Transform Your Carport with PVC Slatwall Storage:
PVC slatwall storage systems offer a practical and stylish way to enhance the organization and functionality of your carport. By opting for this storage solution, you not only gain a clutter-free space but also add value to your home through an organized and accessible storage system. Whether you’re storing tools, outdoor gear, or seasonal items, PVC slatwalls provide the flexibility and durability needed to keep your carport orderly and efficient.
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.
Over the weekend we completed our latest installation of White Garage Wall Storage Panels. After several months of discussion with Stephen in Chelsea, we organised the installation of StoreWALL Brite White Wall panels across the back wall of his double garage.
The back wall of Stephen’s garage was 8m wide (which included a door) and 2.4m high. It was a plastered wall backing onto a rear Hebel wall (most likely formed part of his backyard.
White Garage Wall Storage Panels – Garage Wall Design
Based on pictures sent through by Stephen, we designed a StoreWALL installation with 3 Brite White panels across the length of the wall to cover the 7000mm plastered area. With a 2.4m total height, we used 7 Standard Duty panels to reach a height of 2150mm.
Finding the Studs
I use two different battery-powered Stud Finders. They both deliver different results. They are both wrong a lot of the time. It is always easier to drill a few holes and then use 450mm or 600mm spacing to test if the next stud is where you expect it. You usually need to drill a few more holes to ensure you find the actual outer edges of the studs.
With Stephens garage, the studs were 550 or so apart but there were some different spacings as well.
Garage Wall Vertical Spacing
Stephen’s garage was about 2.4m in height. The wall had a 150mm skirting board. This left us a total wall height of about 250mm. We split this allowing about 125mm at the top and the same above the skirting board. This is where we started our first Installstrip.
With just over 7000mm in length we marked out where each wall panel would start and end, ie 0, 2438, 2439, 4876, 4877, 7000mm. The first and second panel landed in between two installstrips so they didn’t require any additional support. The third (last panel) started a little too far from its closest Installstrip. In this case, we added an additional installstrip using metal screw-in fasteners.
Stacked Wall Panel Formation
For most Installations I have completed for customers, I have opted for the brickwork design. I have always thought it looked the nicest. It does however come with some challenges when joining wall panels. The issue is that the joins show. Some just have a thin line, others have a heavier one. This can come from the cut that was made to the panel (factory or manual). It can also be due to an uneven wall.
For Stephen’s installation, I opted to try the Stacked Wall formation. We used a Wide Trim at either end of the wall and a smaller joining trim along the wall at the two points where the panels would join.
I can say that using the stacked wall formation is easier than making the brick pattern and the look is just as good. I think having the joining trims on either side of each panel also gives them a little more support.
The joining trim we used was about 3m in thickness. We allowed for this when laying out our panels.
Power Outlets
Stephen’s wall had two power outlets. One was a power switch beside the door, at the beginning of the first panel. The second was a 4-gang PowerPoint at the beginning of the 3rd and final panel along the wall.
You can manage power outlets in 2 ways.
You can screw the outlet over the panel. To do this, you can cut a hole in the panel at the location of the outlet. The hole needs to be large enough to pass the power outlet through it. Once you pass it through the hole, you can use longer screws to screw it back into its original bracket in the wall.
You can cut around the power outlet. Using a multi-tool or a jigsaw, you can cut a hole large enough so that it fits around the power outlet. This means you don’t need to unscrew it. You might want to use the joining trims to create a border around it.
For Stephen’s wall, we cut around the power outlet and added trim on the top and bottom of the hole we cut so that it framed it.
Labour Effort
In total, we installed 21 panels for this wall. It took two of us (myself and 15y/o child) about 7-8 hrs to complete the wall. We installed over 32 installstrip, each with 12 screws.
Garage slatwall systems are becoming more and more popular in Australia. This is because storage decisions for homes (even new ones) are often underestimated. This article is about your “garage slatwall installation” and how much of your garage wall(s) you should consider covering with slatwall.
We receive calls every week from customers who have landed on our website and like the idea of a wall-panel garage storage system. It makes good use of walls that otherwise may only hold some hooks and maybe shelves. It looks great and is mould proof and provides many options regarding the types of accessories that can used, from baskets to hooks, brackets, bins, and bags.
The question many people have, however, is how much of my wall(s) should I cover with slatwall panels?
Measuring your wall area
The first step is to determine how much wall space you have. From this measurement, you can then start to work on how much wall space you want to apply slatwall panels to. This will be determined by how much you have to store and your budget.
Measuring your walls is as easy as width x height. Just use a measuring tape on all available wall areas. Consider the two side walls and the back wall.
How much slatwall area do I need?
If you are storing adult-sized bikes, ladders, large gardening tools, and water sports equipment like surfboards and canoes/kayaks, you will require one or even two walls.
Consider that adult bikes whether stored horizontally or perpendicular to a wall are about 2m in length and 60cm in width (handlebar width). Multiply this by the number of bikes you are storing, and you might quickly fill an entire wall with bikes.
Kayaks are long and need to be stored up high and out of the way.
Do I panel a full wall or part wall?
This is a decorating/design question rather than one about storage. Some people like the fact that their entire wall looks the same, ie it has the same look/texture from top to bottom. In this case, they will panel it all from the top of the skirting board to below the cornice.
From a storage perspective, it is not necessary to slatwall your entire wall. The area 1m from the skirting board (ie your floor) and say 30cm from your ceiling can be left as is. This is because you are unlikely to hang or store items that low or high. If budget is a consideration, this is a great way to reduce total panels and therefore material and labor costs.
There are some exceptions. Whilst I write this, I can also reflect on some homes we have installed StoreWALL in, which have paneled their entire wall and used much of it. In those high areas close to the ceiling, customers have installed shelving and stored items that are irregularly used. For those lower areas close to the floor, they have hung bags and baskets.
Working out your costs
Most people starting their slatwall journey are just after a simple quote that will give them some guidance as to how much the project will cost them. Knowing your wall’s dimensions helps. This information can then be used with our Panel Estimator to calculate the potential cost. Alternatively, you can also email us @ info@storewall.com.au these dimensions and we can quote you.
Below is an example of such an email:
Hi
I am interested in your product to instal on my garage’s wall in order to organise my tools including power tools (domestic not professional):
The following are the relevant measurements:
wall number 1 the right section on the photo:height: 180 cmwidth: 117 cm wall number 2 the left section on the photo:height: 139.5 cmwidth: 149 cm
Regards
M
This is what the customer received from us:
StoreWALL Quote Example
Garage Slatwall Installation
Below are examples of full and part garage slatwall installations. Some of these have been completed by us here in Melbourne and some by customers in other states. Both approaches work and have given customers with enough wall space to manage their storage needs.
Full Wall InstallationsPart Wall Installations
In summary, your garage slatwall installation is down to your personal design preferences and your budget. We can help guide you with both of these so that you make the best choice for your storage needs.
A local Victorian town house builder was telling me this week the Victorian Building Association is requiring him to include bike storage in a new set of two town houses he is building. It seems the Victorian Building Association is ensuring some form of garage organization enter all new Victorian homes.
Garage Organization
If the average Australian family home owns two vehicles, then new homes should be built with three car garages not two. Two spaces for the vehicles and one for storage. Walk past most new homes today and you will see one car parked in the garage taking up half the space. The other half will be filled with storage items laying on the floor and up against the walls.
Too Much Stuff
The problem for young families is that between all of the furniture that you are expected to buy and all of the toys you accumulate there is just not enough room to store it. Effectively storing everything is a lose lose predicament.
Get rid of it
Having 3 young children of my own, I have experienced the buying, using and storing that we all go through. I still have a kid’s bed in my garage that turns into a couch/bench which my partner expects to one day use in a bigger home we may own. It isn’t easy to move stuff on. Throwing it out is painful, giving to someone for a small price or free is much easier. Atleast you know it might get a second or third use. Gumtree, eBay and Facebook’s marketplace are ideal for this. You will be surprised how quickly some stuff goes particularly if you have looked after it.
Storing what is left
My work with StoreWALL has allowed me to share time with hundreds of customers who have purchased or considered purchasing StoreWALL. The key to effective garage organization is prioritising space for the things you use regularly. This is a task no one can really help you with.
If your family enjoys bike riding then, this is a priority. Same applies to ball sports or kraft activities. It may also include tools for your work around the home or garden or even your car(s). Prioritising also includes considering the actual cost of some of your “stuff” and looking after it. Keeping a $300 drill in bucket or just lying on a bench/table is not safe nor a great way to protect your investment.
Garage Organization – Height
Consider using the full height of your garage space. If you have a 2.4m height, then look to make the most of this. Look at storage options that allow you to store the least used items in locations that you may only need to access once a year. Shelving is ideal for this. So is overhead storage.
Garage slatwall panels can make this easy by allowing you to panel the height of your wall and then offer versatility in how you use it. Add brackets to your slatwalls and create your own shelving. These shelves can then be moved lower as your needs change.
Overhead storage is also very popular today and can be placed in most locations on the roof of your garage. Once installed they can be difficult to move, so you need to get the location right.
Garage Organization – Walls
Garage organization ideas
I mentioned garage slatwalls above and this is obviously our specialty. Wall panels are great because they give you options. Once the wall is panelled it can be used for Hooks, Baskets, Shelving, Bins and Bags. Best of all, you can move it around over time as your needs change.
Using your walls is also great because it allows you to use the length and height for those odd, shaped items like ladders.
Compared to just buying a shelfing unit from your local hardware store, garage wall panels might seem expensive. Over time you will come to appreciate the flexibility your choice offers you that a basic shelf will never deliver.
Here is an example of what I mean. If bike storage is a priority for you, slatwall panels allow you to add a bike hook anywhere on your wall. You will then be able to easily access your bike as well as your car. If your priorities change over time and you no longer need the bike, you could remove the bike hook and replace it with a Tote Bag for sporting balls or some shelving. If you ever needed that bike hook again, you could easily move the shelving higher (making it bigger or smaller) on that wall or in another location and re-introduce the bike hook.
Garage slatwall panels need to be seen as an investment not just a garage storage option. If you eventually decide to sell your home, they will add to its value and will give your prospective owners a new ready to use garage. Alternatively, they can also be taken with you to your next home.
Garage Organization – Depth
I don’t want to underscore the value of shelving units because not only are they affordable they also give you depth. If you garage space is long and narrow, you can add a shelving unit at the back of it allowing you to maximise the space between your vehicle and the back wall. Depending on the height of your garage, shelving units can also allow you to use the full height of your garage.
The one challenge with a deep shelf is accessing everything stored on it. This is where some forward thinking of what you need occasionally and what you need regularly comes into play. Ideally you don’t want to have to sort through stuff each time you want to use the vacuum cleaner.
Fixed shelving units can be found at most hardware stores plus many online retailers.
Cabinets
Source Just Pro Tools
Cabinets are another very useful option if you have the space. A lockable cabinet can be a great way to secure those expensive tools or that equipment which you don’t want others looking at each time they enter the garage. Cabinets come in lots of shapes and sizes and combinations including bench space and drawers.
Benches
Bench space is important if you have the real-estate. You can accomplish this with a moveable bench (on wheels) or something that is fixed to your wall. It can also be something that you build yourself (YouTube is great for this).
First things first
Clean out your garage and get rid of the stuff you know someone else may be able to get more use from.
A few months ago, I received the below email from Andrew who lives in Sydney “Looking at the StoreWALL system, and am wondering if you’ve come across a Sydney based installer who can install on a rendered brick garage wall? It looks more complex than a standard install, so would rather go to someone who has previously done this”. Shortly after I received a call from him as well and we chatted in more detail about his project.
New Home New Garage
Andrew had done quite a bit of work to his home and he had now turned his attention to his garage. His garage was quite big in terms of height. Both side walls where made from brick and rendered. He also had pillars between sections. Andrew wanted a garage storage system which allowed him to make use of his new garage walls.
After researching storage wall panels, he came across StoreWALL and discussed the installation process with his carpenter. His carpenter recommended installing battens to the walls first and then installing the StoreWALL InstallStrips to these battens. There was a fear that some screws may not hit mortar and not brick and so the installation would not be as secure as it could be.
His Carpenter had a valid point, however StoreWALL’s InstallStrips (one 900mm pieces with 3 sections) have 12 screw holes each. Therefore, it was unlikely that if they used all 12 screw holes that they would not secure the wall well enough.
Rendered Brick Garage Wall
Following our phone call, I sent Andrew an email with some photos of a previous installation we had done which was also on a rendered brick garage wall. To assist him I also provided Andrew with contact details of a carpenter I knew in the Sydney area who had installed StoreWALL in the past.
“Thanks for the chat Andrew. This is a picture of what the Installstrips look like on a brick wall. I know this carpenter has done installations on brick walls before, however I am not sure on his rates.
As I explained I don’t think you need the battens.
Please send through your measurements and I can quote the materials for you.”
InstallStrips on a rendered brick garage wall
Andrew replied with detailed pictures of how he envisaged his wall looking and the size of panels he would require.
“I have a couple of rows of large shelves going up above (600mm deep), therefore I’m going to use a height of 1830 for StoreWALL which I based on 6 panels.
I’m thinking if I get the 2.4m panels, I can fit some of the leftover cuts in the smaller space under the window that you can see.”
Sydney Brick Wall Installation
Brick walls are challenging for most home owners. This is because screwing into the walls seems harder and most people think that a brick wall gives them less storage options. To be perfectly clear, brackets with shelving is what most people focus on.
My recommendation to Andrew was the following:
Garage Storage Solution Design
Garage Wall 1
6 pieces cut to 1680mm (comes in 10mm on each side)
This will leave you with 6 x 758mm left over. (These can be used under the window).
In terms of Installstrips I would have 4 columns (each 2 installstrips high). Total of 8 Installstrips.
Panels cut to size. No charge.
Garage Wall 2
6 pieces cut to 1730mm (comes in 10mm on each side).
In terms of Installstrips I would have 4 columns (each 2 installstrips high). Total of 8 Installstrips.
You will need to also cut around the power outlet on the left. This needs to be done on site.
You will have 6 x 708mm pieces left over. These can be used elsewhere in your garage.
Panels cut to size. No charge.
Garage Wall 3 (under window)
You can use 4 x 758mm leftovers for this. 4 Panels will give you a height of 1219mm.
You will need 1 column of InstallStrips on either side (4 sections high). Total of 3 InstallStrips.
StoreWALL Required Materials
In total you need 12 x 2438 pieces (3 cartons). You also need a minimum of 19 Installstrips. You will still have left over panels and depending on what you do with these you may require additional InstallStrips.
It turns out that Andrew had an additional wall area which could also be covered with the remaining off-cut panels. In the end there was no waste at all and Andrew had covered as much of his wall as was possible.
StoreWALL on Rendered Brick Garage Wall
Once the order was received I got started cutting the panels and packaging them all up for Andrew. They were couriered to Sydney within a few days along with a small accessories list.
If you check out the end result, you will see he also had the shelving installed above the panels which enabled his to make great use of the height of the garage wall. I don’t have the exact measurements, but Andrew’s garage is super tall.
Garage Storage Accessories
In terms of accessories, Andrew started with a small quantity to manage some key items in his garage and once this was ready would re-evaluate.
He had some foldout chairs he wanted hung, some bikes and a ladder. To start with the accessories list looked like this:
2020 is a year many of us will never forget. COVID-19 has locked a lot of us in our homes with plenty of time on our hands to look around and want to mend. The organised garage is something that has been talked about in many households when I consider the amount of enquiries we have received since the lockdown began.
We have covered how to organise your garage in several previous articles on our website, but I thought a top 10 (or 11) list of how to start and what to do would be useful.
The Organised Garage
Whilst there are plenty of extreme garage photos out there, your typical garage will have some order about it. However, what then tends to happen is larger items start to take up space, the shelves you purchased fill up or don’t fit larger items (anymore) and things start to accumulate on the floor. Before you know it, you start to use the floor more and more until it’s impossible to move around and find anything quickly or safely.
Step 1 – Empty it out
The best way to start re-organising your garage is to clean it all out. Everything off the walls, the floor and the ceiling needs to come out. Start in the morning so you have the day ahead of you and begin the clean-out.
Step 2 – Group it
When its all out on the garden lawn or driveway, start to group it. One of the keys to attaining the organised garage is the organising bit.
When I look at what is inside my garage I have the following categories:
Tools
Sports Gear
Bikes
Food (cans/packets and excess food I store)
Xmas tree and decorations
Beach gear (boogie boards)
Party gear (decorations, plastic cups and plates)
Old kids furniture
Bins of books
Old clothes
Keep sake items
Step 3 – Sweep it out
Give your garage a good clean out. This includes sweeping and even hosing it down. Get all of the dust and dirt that has accumulated in the corners out. You will need to remove all the furniture to do this.
You should also look at the walls and ceiling and wipe it all down. Either by hand or with a broom. Get all of the cob webs down.
Step 4 – Keep, Dump, Not Sure
Once your sorting is done, you need to go through everything and decide to either keep it because you will use it or it has some sentimental value. Dump it because you will never use it and you know someone else will get better value from it. Or, put it into the “Not sure” list to be decided upon over the coming days.
What you decide to get rid of could go to a Salvation Army store for them to sell (and make a few dollars from). It could also be sold on Ebay or Gumtree if you have the patience. Alternatively, you could give it away to a friend/family. Finally, when hard rubbish comes around you could throw it out then.
The items that you are not sure about, should be put to the side to be looked at over the coming weeks and decided upon. Don’t add them to the Keep list unless you are certain that is where they belong.
Step 5 – Floor Plan
The floor plan is really important because it offers a way to design your layout and use of the space you have. Consider the furniture you have, its size and potential use.
Think about how you use your garage. Is it just for storage or do you do work in there. As an example, I exercise in my garage, so a certain area needs to be dedicated to my training equipment.
What about your car? Do you need to park your car in the garage? If you have bikes, think about where they can be parked or hung.
If you use the space as a workshop, consider what you will use as your bench or table.
You don’t need special software for this, a few pieces of paper will do it. However spend time thinking about the space, the objects and how you want to use it all. Think about your doorways and how you access the garage (main garage door, side door, back door).
Consider the location of the items you will keep but only use a year and those that you want to access regularly. If you have little ones accessing bikes or sporting gear, think about how they can safely move in and out of the garage.
Step 5 – Group it (part 2)
The second part of grouping relates to organising your items in tune with the garage floor plan you have designed. If you read through the many blogs on organising and watch the videos, there are tons of tips on the best approach.
With any space you are working on within your home you need to prioritise based on what you want to use the space for. If part of the space is for working, then making enough room to work is key, so is using the right furniture like a desk or bench.
Bikes, if you are regularly in and out of the garage to get a bike(s), then having these placed in an easy access area even when the car is in the garage is important. You don’t want to have to move the car to get the bikes each time.
Tools, if you are using tools or a regular basis then having your tools visible and accessible is key. This can include your smaller hand tools and all types of power tools.
Items which are regularly used should be easy to access. For you and the rest of your family members. Items which are used once a year (xmas tree) should be out of the way. These items can be stored high and in a harder place to access.
Remember that this step is not a once-off. Organising and re-organising happens all of the time within the house. It should be the same in the garage. The organised garage is not born overnight.
Step 6 – Using Walls
Whether your garage space is small or large using your wall space is important. Most people confuse shelving with maximising use of walls space. Sticking a few shelves on the wall is a start, it’s not the end.
Having open spare wall space in a garage is wasted space. Solutions like StoreWALL give you the ability to use your wall and change its use as needs change. Unlike a shelf which is large and can’t be easily moved around, Garage Wall Storage can change a wall from shelving to holding power tools in a matter of minutes. Accessories are unlocked and moved around as needed.
Use wall storage around shelving, cupboards and other furniture.
Step 7 – Use the height of your room
Use the height of your space to store larger items that you seldom use. It gets them out of the way and the lower easy to access areas are used for more frequent use items. Wall storage allows you to create shelving across the top of your wall.
However there are other garage storage options which create shelving across the ceiling of your garage.
Step 8 – Re-use old furniture
If you have furniture that can be re-used for storage, it makes sense to give it a second life. Why buy another piece of furniture if you can change its look with some paint and move it into the garage. This isn’t always practical but it can work. An old desk in the study can become a useful workbench in the garage.
Step 9 – Labelled Bins & Tubs
We all have them, coloured or clear plastic tubs with lots of stuff in them. They should be organised and clearly labelled. Some clear information on the outside of the tub will save a lot of time sifting through them all looking for that old book.
Ensure your tubs have lids and they are shut tight so that contents don’t collect dust.
Step 10 – By the Door
Keep your frequently used items by the garage door. This is the main garage door you use.
In my garage, the frequently used items are my tools, food and my gym equipment. They are all by the back door to the garage.
Step 11 – It’s not a once off
Just like any other room in your garage, it may take you a few goes to get it right. Over this time you will likely throw more stuff out and learn more about how you want to use the space you have.
Your version of “the organised garage” doesn’t need to look like what is in some of pretty staged pictures of garages. It needs to work for you, your stuff and the room you have.
If in 6 mths your needs or items may change, so should your garage.
