If you work on your car regularly, it’s worth the time and effort to transform your garage into a clean and efficient workspace to ensure optimum functionality, organization and safety.
With some resourcefulness and a little ingenuity you can create a great workspace in any garage, and it doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. The huge air compressor and fancy new welder can come later!
Here are six tips to achieve the best DIY workspace in your garage.
- Clean it up and Clear Out
The first thing you should do when turning your garage into the ideal workshop is give it a good cleaning. Sweep, dust and consider pressure washing the floor to create a clean environment.
If there’s excessive clutter, now is the time to sort through your belongings and remove all unnecessary items to create space. There are certainly things you can’t get rid of like the lawnmower, but perhaps you don’t need six Christmas tree stands.
Consolidating the items you need into one area of the garage will make your space easier to navigate and tidier.
- Create an Efficient Layout
The best workspaces don’t make you move far between the work and your tools, so take some time and plan your layout to maximize space and efficiency. An L-shaped configuration between the toolbox and bench works well, but what’s best really depends on your space. Just be sure to arrange your workstations and your must-have tools so they’re easily accessible.
Make sure you have electrical outlets nearby and invest in a wall-mounted extension cord reel. Not needing to roll and store extension cords saves time and space, and most cord reels now include a multi-tap outlet so you can plug in multiple devices.
- Storage Solutions
Organized storage for tools and materials is a must. Building shelves and cabinets yourself is more expensive than it once was, so buying used storage solutions may be your best option. Shop online marketplaces, auctions and garage sales for bargains.
For stuff you don’t use often, maximize the storage space over your head. Just don’t overcrowd the ceiling or your garage will feel cave-like. Most people find that unused vertical space above your garage door rails is the best place for longer term storage.
To fill your new shelving, put like items together inside bins or boxes and label them. A label maker is a luxury that makes your space look pro, but you can do the same thing with masking tape and a marker.
- Fire Safety is Critical
To protect your property, yourself and your family, store all flammable liquids like gasoline, solvents and paint thinners in tightly sealed, approved containers. Also, ensure good ventilation to disperse fumes that may accumulate from these materials.
Keep at least two multipurpose fire extinguishers rated for Class A, B and C fires in an easily accessible location. Learn how to use them properly. And lastly, install smoke alarms inside the garage that are interconnected with those inside your home for early detection of smoke or fire.
- Plan the Perfect Workbench
Invest in a durable workbench with ample workspace and storage underneath. Ensure it provides enough room for your projects without feeling cramped. Generally, workbenches are around 34-36 inches tall.
A stable workbench is a usable workbench. For most people that means attaching it to the wall or floor. But a stable rolling bench is possible with some creativity, just make sure it has locking casters to ensure stability. In a larger space consider a peninsula-style bench that allows access from both sides.
When buying or building your ideal workbench also think about these key factors:
- Weight Capacity: Determine the maximum weight the workbench can support, especially if you work with heavy tools or materials.
- Modular Features: Choose a design that allows for attachments such as vices, clamps or additional tool storage such as drawers and peg boards.
- Durability: If your garage is not climate-controlled, choose materials that can withstand temperature fluctuations and moisture.
- Easy to Clean: Select materials that are easy to wipe down and maintain.
- Light It Up
It’s important to illuminate your workspace effectively. If you can’t see, you can’t do anything safely or well.
LED shop lighting is increasingly affordable so there’s little reason to bother with fragile, low output fluorescent lights. Evenly light the entire garage with overhead LED lights positioned to minimize shadows or glare. Where focused light is needed, add task lights directed at workbenches, tool storage areas and specific project zones. Use adjustable fixtures or lamps that can be angled or moved to direct light precisely.
Also optimize light color and temperature:
- Color Rendering Index (CRI): Choose lights with a high CRI (ideally 80 or above) to accurately render colors, which is important for tasks like painting or wiring.
- Light Temperature:Opt for lights with a color temperature around 4000-5000 Kelvin (cool white to daylight) for a bright, energizing workspace. Warmer temperatures (2700-3000 Kelvin) can create a more relaxed atmosphere but may not be as suitable for detailed work.
By following these steps, you can create a well-organized, safe and efficient DIY workspace in your garage, tailored to your specific interests, projects and budget.
Still have questions? Speak to one of our Tinker Experts today!
