3 tips for organizing your garage

Getting your garage organized like this one pictured from Wall Control can seem like a huge project. While it may take a little time, the benefits are well worth it. According to AllExperts, a well-organized and made-over garage can increase the value of a home by $2,000 to $10,000.

That being said, according to Hints for Homeowners , a recent Gladiator GarageWorks consumer survey found that nearly one-quarter (22 percent) of consumers characterize their garage as a "don't wan to go in there" space. While many said their garage is "clean cut and simple," the survey revealed that 32 percent of consumers today can't get their car into the garage.“Many garages are chaotic piles of seasonal tools, gadgets and equipment that are often left on the floor or force-fit into mismatched organizational solutions. In fact, company research shows that the top drivers for purchasing organizational products for the garage are wanting a more organized look and getting things off the floor. We feel creating the right plan and products to meet many lifestyles makes all the difference in addressing this need,” said garage organization expert Lou Ann Schafer.

So here are three tips shared by Gladiator GarageWorks.

1. One Size Does Not Fit All: Bins are not an organizational solution for everyone. Instead, identify your lifestyle needs and then embark on an organizational plan. Are you a golfer, gardener, bike rider? Specifically tailored storage solutions will help you manage these interests.
2. Identify Zones: The garage can serve many purposes. Lay the space out like you would a room inside your house. Is there room for the car? What storage solutions can be hung on the wall to free up floor space? A sample garage blueprint tool can be found on the Gladiator brand Web site.
3. The Garage Is For Everyone: Once considered the guy’s domain, the garage is increasingly becoming a shared family space. Take all parties’ interests and needs into consideration when organizing and get them involved. This can include the integration of specific solutions, such as ball caddies, bike hooks and mobile, modular cabinets.

Using these tips can turn that "don't want to go in there" space into a well-organized impressive place you won't mind showing off to the neighbors, that is, unless you are afraid they will just be coming over to borrow your tools!