Get the most out of storage

Turn to innovative storage solutions like these to optimize your available space:

MAKING A PLAN

Fully customized garage storage systems are available, but it’s not necessary to spend tons of money to have a more functional space. Consider exploring yard sales, classified ads or resale shops for thriftier garage storage alternatives. Those who are open to items with minor cosmetic imperfections can find quality storage solutions that are sturdy enough to support your belongings but also far more affordable.

WALL STORAGE

When floor space is at a premium, explore inventive ways to store items like bicycles, sports gear, and lawn equipment on the walls. Hooks are a common option. A modular wall-mounted slat storage system can also provide the flexibility to fit any specific need. You can enhance the slats with wire baskets or hooks to accommodate a wide range of items, from rakes to garden hoses. Transform the interior of your garage door into valuable storage space by attaching metal brackets to securely hold lightweight sports equipment like fishing rods in a horizontal position.

VERTICAL OPTIONS

Plastic storage bins help us all organize and separate things by season, sport or family member. But they can only be stacked so high – and that setup makes it very difficult to access anything but the top bin. Construct storage towers with plywood shelving so that individual bins can be removed and then returned after use. You can also store light-weight items in plastic storage bins up above by screwing T-shaped 2x2 pieces of wood into the ceiling and then sliding the bins in place. Take advantage of unused space in the garage by creating corner shelves in the existing studs.

SUSPENDED STORAGE

If you want to clear out space on the floor of your garage, you can also look up. Items that are infrequently used can be stored in elevated areas. If you have a ladder available, installing a fixed overhead storage shelf is an easy option. Bicycle storage systems now incorporate a rope and pulley mechanism with hooks, allowing you to securely store them overhead. A similar pulley system can be employed to lift a metal shelf for storing items in plastic bins.