Often considered simply a place to park a car, with a bit of creativity and imagination, a garage can become your home’s best asset for storage or an extra bedroom. When it comes to getting the most out of your garage space, many questions may come up. Here are a few answers:
1. How can I organize my garage?
One of the most popular solutions for organizing a garage is the addition of built-in storage. Built-in storage allows you to easily organize, find and store your items. Built-in storage consists of elements such as wall-mounted cabinets, a work table that can also be used for counter space, as well as hooks for tools that won’t fit in a standard tool box (brooms, shovels, hoes and other large tools). A locking tool box will allow you to store your more valuable tools. Think about adding brackets to the walls and ceiling for larger items such as bicycles or other items you use less frequently.
2. How else can I use my garage?
An idea that is becoming more popular is to convert a garage into a “man cave.” An additional space perfect for a TV, the man cave can be a fun, relaxing space that you can decorate using a sports, beer or hunting theme. Add a pool table, a comfortable sofa, a hammock or a lounge chair and the garage becomes the perfect place to unwind after a long day. In the summer, you can add a sliding screen door the same size as the garage door to take advantage of the summer breeze while keeping the bugs at bay. If you are thinking of getting a new fridge for the kitchen, put the old one in the garage to store refreshments such as bottled water, soft drinks and beer. Whether it’s for a man cave, a workout room, a game room or a home office, your garage has unlimited potential as an extra room.
3. Is it possible to add more space?
If the garage doesn’t provide sufficient space for storage or a conversion, you might want to think about adding an extension. Depending on where you live, you might need a permit for the construction of an additional structure. However, a permit is not usually needed when building an addition to an existing structure, as opposed to building a separate structure. Building an extension involves adding a pressure-treated platform, followed by the addition of walls and a roof. Costs vary according to the type of materials chosen. You can find a step-by-step guide here: http://www.familyhandyman.com/garage/storage/get-more-garage-storage-with-a-bump-out-addition/step-by-step. Rather than considering a garage as a place for the car only, think of it as your home’s untapped resource. No matter which option you choose to take advantage of your garage’s full potential, all you need is a bit of imagination and you’ll be sure to be pleased with your result.
