As 2020 draws to an end, let’s review what makes your garage work well for you all year and what you can do in 2021 to make it even better.
Benefits of the Gray Wood Finish:
Aesthetically Pleasing: The gray wood finish adds a modern and stylish touch to your slatwall panels, effortlessly transforming your space into a visually appealing and inviting environment.
Versatile and Compatible: The gray wood finish complements a wide range of interior design styles, making it a versatile choice for any space. Whether you have a sleek and contemporary aesthetic or a more rustic and industrial vibe, the gray wood finish seamlessly fits in.
Easy to Clean and Maintain: Unlike real wood, the gray wood finish is low-maintenance and resistant to stains, scratches, and fading. Simply wipe down the panels to keep them looking pristine, saving you time and effort in maintenance.
Durable and Long-lasting: Procore Plus panels with the gray wood finish are built to withstand the demands of daily use. With its durable construction, you can trust that your slatwall panels will maintain their beautiful appearance for years to come.
Conclusion:
With Procore Plus and its newest addition, the gray wood finish, along with the hidden aluminum core, you can elevate the functionality, aesthetics, and strength of your slatwall panels. Whether you're looking to organize your garage, workspace, or any other area, Procore Plus offers a versatile and high-quality solution. Say goodbye to cluttered spaces and hello to stylish, strong, and efficient organization with Procore Plus and the stunning gray wood finish.
Bikes are a great way to stay active and explore the outdoors, but they can take up a lot of space in your home or garage. If you're tired of tripping over bikes or struggling to find a place to store them, Proslat has a variety of bike storage solutions that can help you maximize your space and keep your bikes organized. In this post, we'll explore three of Proslat's bike storage solutions: hanging bikes on slatwall, storing them under ProRack overhead racks, or using a motorized lift on your ceiling.
Hanging Bikes on Slatwall
One of the most popular bike storage solutions offered by Proslat is hanging bikes on slatwall. Slatwall panels are designed to be mounted on your garage walls, and they provide a versatile and customizable storage solution. Proslat offers a variety of slatwall panels in different sizes and colors. Their panels are made of high-quality PVC, which is durable and easy to clean. They are also designed to be compatible with a wide range of accessories, including bike hooks.
Proslat's bike hooks are designed to hold your bike securely in place, while also keeping it off the ground and out of the way. They are easy to install and can be moved around on the slatwall panel, so you can customize your bike storage solution to fit your specific needs. Proslat offer a variety of bike hook options depending on your preference.
Hanging your bikes on slatwall is a great way to keep them organized and out of the way, while also making them easily accessible. With Proslat's bike hooks, you can hang your bikes on the slatwall panel and free up valuable floor space in your garage.
Shop our Slatwall bike hooks:
Vertical Bike Hook - 2 Pack item # 13028 Click here to view product
Horizontal Bike Hook item # 10033 Click here to view product
Super Duty Hook - 2 Pack item #13012 Click here to view product
Storing Bikes Under ProRack Overhead Racks
Another bike storage solution offered by Proslat is storing bikes under ProRack overhead racks. ProRack overhead racks are designed to be mounted on your garage wall, and they provide a great storage solution for items that you don't need to access frequently, such as seasonal decorations or sports equipment.
ProRack overhead racks are made of high-quality steel and are designed to be durable and long-lasting. ProRack overhead racks are easy to install and can be mounted on your garage wall in just a few hours.
Proslat offers a variety of ProRack overhead racks, including models that are specifically designed for bike storage. These racks are designed to hold your bikes securely in place, while also keeping them out of the way. Storing your bikes under ProRack overhead racks is a great way to free up valuable floor space in your garage, while also keeping your bikes organized and easily accessible.
Using a Motorized Lift on Your Ceiling
If you're looking for a more high-tech bike storage solution, Proslat offers a motorized lift that can be installed on your garage ceiling. The motorized lift is designed to lift your bikes off the ground and store them on your garage ceiling, freeing up valuable floor space.
The motorized lift is easy to install and can be controlled with a remote. It is also designed to hold up to 220 pounds, so it can easily lift and store even the heaviest bikes. One of the added benefits of the motorized lift is that it takes the heavy lifting for you, making it a great option for those who may have difficulty lifting heavy bikes. The motorized lift is a great option for those who want a high-tech storage solution that is easy to use and provides easy access to their bikes.
4 Bike Lift item #68224K Click here to view product
8 Bike Lift item # 68221 Click here to view product
Conclusion
Bike storage can be a challenge, but with Proslat's bike storage solutions, it doesn't have to be. Hanging bikes on slatwall, storing them under ProRack overhead racks, or using a motorized lift on your ceiling are all great ways to maximize your space and keep your bikes organized. Proslat offers a wide range of bike storage solutions that are designed to fit your specific needs, whether you have one bike or multiple bikes. With Proslat's bike storage solutions, you can free up valuable floor space in your garage and keep your bikes easily accessible and organized.
Why is it important to have a functional garage?
A functional garage is important for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it allows you to park your car inside, which can protect it from the elements and potential theft. Additionally, a functional garage can help you stay organized and save time. When your belongings are stored in an organized manner, you can easily find what you need without having to dig through piles of clutter. This can save you time and reduce stress. Finally, a functional garage can increase the value of your home. According to a report by Remodeling Magazine, a garage renovation can provide a return on investment of up to 85%.
The Importance of Storage Solutions
The key to transforming your garage into a functional space is to invest in storage solutions. There are a variety of storage solutions available, but the most effective ones are those that are designed specifically for garages. These solutions can help you maximize your storage space and keep your belongings organized.
Slatwall Panels
One of the most popular garage storage solutions is slatwall panels. Slatwall panels are designed to be mounted on your garage walls, and they provide a versatile and customizable storage solution. At Proslat, we offer a variety of slatwall panels in different sizes and colors. Our panels are made of high-quality PVC, which is durable and easy to clean. They are also designed to be compatible with a wide range of accessories, including shelves, hooks, and baskets. This means that you can customize your storage solution to fit your specific needs.
Cabinets
Cabinets are another popular garage storage solution. Cabinets are perfect for storing items that you want to keep out of sight, such as tools, cleaning supplies, and other household items. At Proslat, we offer a variety of cabinets in different sizes and styles. Our cabinets are made of high-quality materials, including steel and wood, and they are designed to be durable and long-lasting.
Hooks and Baskets
Hooks and baskets are great for storing items that are too bulky to fit in cabinets or on shelves. At Proslat, we offer a variety of hooks and baskets in different sizes and styles. Our hooks are designed to be compatible with our slatwall panels, so you can easily hang them wherever you need them. Our baskets are perfect for storing sports equipment, gardening tools, and other bulky items.
Tips for Organizing Your Garage
Once you have invested in storage solutions for your garage, it's important to keep it organized. Here are some tips for organizing your garage:
Regularly de-clutter: Go through your garage regularly and get rid of items that you no longer need.
Conclusion
Transforming your messy garage into a functional storage space can seem like a daunting task, but with the right storage solutions and organization tips, it can be done. At Proslat, we offer a wide range of garage storage solutions that can help you maximize your storage space and keep your belongings organized. With a little effort and investment, you can turn your cluttered garage into a functional space that will make your life easier and more organized.
]]>As 2020 draws to an end, let’s review what makes your garage work well for you all year and what you can do in 2021 to make it even better.
The garage is many things to many people. What does your garage do for you? Is it your workshop, your gym, your rainy day patio, your storage shed, or your sanctuary. Whatever it means to you and whatever you use it for, there are a few things that we have found are common across all garages.
As premium suppliers in the garage organization business, we are constantly watching market trends. We are ready to pivot when needed while keeping new product development top of mind. Despite that, we have found that there a several “must-haves” that remain constant. They fall into two main categories. The first we call “construction related” and seem so simple you will be forgiven for looking for more.
The second category is Organization and this means different things to different people. There are price points for every budget. So, whether you start small or go all in, consider this. We believe your garage will service you better when it includes 5 key components.
Does your garage need any of these key components to make it work better for you in 2021? We are here to help.
As the year draws to a close and the holidays get closer, we’d like to take a moment to say thanks to our followers. Thank you for your support and for taking the time to read through our blogs this year. We love it when you visit. Here is a code you may use up to the end of year for a 15% discount on any Proslat purchase. *This discount does not include cabinets, installation services, and promotional items.
Happy Holidays everyone and please stay safe.
15% discount code: Holiday Cheer
AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT!
Place your order just as soon as you decide what you need. The rate that Proslat products fly off the shelves right now, means that we are experiencing inventory issues. Some items are taking longer to reach you right now so the earlier your order is in, the better.
We received some feedback from a Facebook follower recently which prompted an interesting conversation at Proslat. Matthew told us that when he finished his own garage reno and found he had a little slatwall left over, he gave it to his dad. “Dad” quickly put it up in his own garage and Matthew was surprised to see the level of pleasure his dad got from organizing some of his own things. He took the time to send us a message to says thanks for our “great product” and went on to say that the pandemic was a good time for people to tidy up their lives and the garage was a good place to start.
We received some feedback from a Facebook follower recently which prompted an interesting conversation at Proslat. Matthew told us that when he finished his own garage reno and found he had a little slatwall left over, he gave it to his dad. “Dad” quickly put it up in his own garage and Matthew was surprised to see the level of pleasure his dad got from organizing some of his own things. He took the time to send us a message to says thanks for our “great product” and went on to say that the pandemic was a good time for people to tidy up their lives and the garage was a good place to start.
His final comment created a conversation about the whole declutter/get organized phenomena that continues to sweep over us and why it matters in the garage. In the past, you didn’t spend a great deal of time in the garage but today, with all the hobbies and sports that the average family juggles, the garage has become an integral part of the home. A fact that becomes important when you learn that several studies found that more than half the homeowners surveyed listed the garage as the most cluttered space in their homes. The research is fairly clear that clutter increases stress and anxiety by negatively affecting people’s ability to focus. And the experts tell us that disorganization, not lack of space, causes 80% of household clutter.
His final comment created a conversation about the whole declutter/get organized phenomena that continues to sweep over us and why it matters in the garage. In the past, you didn’t spend a great deal of time in the garage but today, with all the hobbies and sports that the average family juggles, the garage has become an integral part of the home. A fact that becomes important when you learn that several studies found that more than half the homeowners surveyed listed the garage as the most cluttered space in their homes. The research is fairly clear that clutter increases stress and anxiety by negatively affecting people’s ability to focus. And the experts tell us that disorganization, not lack of space, causes 80% of household clutter.
So, if clutter doesn’t allow you to feel relaxed and on top of things, wouldn’t you be better off to start in the house? Apparently not. Better, more organized storage is seen as a big part of the solution and most of us are not installing storage systems in our bedrooms. So it makes sense that the work begins in the garage, particularly if you are among the 50% of homeowners who use the garage as their house’s main entryway.
So, if clutter doesn’t allow you to feel relaxed and on top of things, wouldn’t you be better off to start in the house? Apparently not. Better, more organized storage is seen as a big part of the solution and most of us are not installing storage systems in our bedrooms. So it makes sense that the work begins in the garage, particularly if you are among the 50% of homeowners who use the garage as their house’s main entryway.
If you are using the garage as a gateway between work and home, is this what you want to see when you come home?
If you are using the garage as a gateway between work and home, is this what you want to see when you come home?
The storage solution begins with slatwall. Once you have sorted what’s worth keeping and arranged your things into like categories, you can take a look at how best to store it. Is it easily hung from a hook (rakes, shovels, hoses) or a basket (balls, cleaning supplies)? Is it better lifted up out of the way (off season sporting equipment, tires)? Or is it hazardous material best kept behind lock and key in a durable cabinet?
Whether you go “all in” on a complete garage reno or start with wall sections, Proslat can help you create a clutter-free space. We have been delivering quality, innovative designs and unbeatable prices to consumers for over a decade and we can help you choose the perfect storage system for your needs.
The storage solution begins with slatwall. Once you have sorted what’s worth keeping and arranged your things into like categories, you can take a look at how best to store it. Is it easily hung from a hook (rakes, shovels, hoses) or a basket (balls, cleaning supplies)? Is it better lifted up out of the way (off season sporting equipment, tires)? Or is it hazardous material best kept behind lock and key in a durable cabinet?
Whether you go “all in” on a complete garage reno or start with wall sections, Proslat can help you create a clutter-free space. We have been delivering quality, innovative designs and unbeatable prices to consumers for over a decade and we can help you choose the perfect storage system for your needs.
If you have decided the time has come to either relocate, upsize or downsize, take a hard look around you before hanging out the For Sale sign. And don’t overlook the garage, experts agree that when selling a home your garage is just as important as any other room in the house.
An Impulse Research survey found, “When purchasing a home, 80% of buyers factor in the garage when making their decision, ” while 82% of the respondents said that a disorganized garage had a negative impact on the first impression of anyone looking for a new home. No wonder realtors have concluded that maintaining an organized garage reflects on owner’s pride in their home. What does your garage say about you? When your garage door goes up, will your garage make a good first impression?
If you plan to sell your home, chances are you don’t want to invest a lot of money in upgrades that won’t increase the value of your house. Your remodeling budget is best reserved for those projects that improve the appearance, but also help you stand apart from the others. Most sellers will invest in fresh paint, decluttering and perhaps updating some fixtures – so how do you make your home stand out from the crowd? Offering a garage storage system can be the edge you need. A Braun Research Survey of realtors revealed that garages ranked higher as desirable storage space for homebuyers than basements or attics and yet many people use them as a dumping ground for all the things they don’t want in the house.
The good news is, you don’t have to spend a fortune to make a difference. For a modest investment of two or three boxes of Proslat slatwall and some carefully chosen accessories, you can create a simple organized garage that not only looks good but offers potential buyers a functional storage system. The slatwall can be installed quickly with an extra pair of hands and half a dozen tools and then you will be ready to transform the space. Tires could sit in a rack out of the way, hoses, garden and workshop tools stored neatly on the walls along with any sports gear that generally sits on the floor. And just like that you have an clutter-free garage and your potential buyer can visualize hanging his own gear from those sleek and attractive walls.
Let your simple garage storage system be the good impression you need to move your home onto the buyers’ wish list.
When the autopsy is completed on Covid-19, the results will identify the businesses that succumbed to the pandemic. However, it should also reveal that a surprising number of businesses not only thrived, but found new areas of growth. A case in point is the home improvement sector. Some of us were fortunate to have stable employment throughout the lock down and once the novelty of being home with the family wore off, we found the urge to spread out or to create a personal space.
During this uncertain time, many of us found ourselves parked in front of a computer screen shopping online. A ladder from Costco because we have time now to clean out the eavestroughs; garden tools from Amazon to plant flowers in all those new planters ordered from Wayfair; a new BBQ for the family dinners we cooked on the deck and, of course, a tranquil water fountain ordered to help us relax during this stressful pandemic. We even ordered new bikes for everyone because we discovered we enjoyed spending time outdoors as a family.
One evening, however, we notice the days are getting shorter and the air decidedly cooler. Summer is drawing to a close and in many places, autumn is upon us. Which highlights a new problem – where is all this new stuff going to be stored until we need it again? The new bikes need to go somewhere and the lawn chairs and garden accessories have to be squeezed into the already full garage. Many of us are coming to the realization that we have one more major project to complete. And this one might turn out to be the most important of all.
We have to make sure our garage storage is up to the task of safely housing all our new equipment until the seasons roll around again. If floor space is at a premium, do we need ceiling storage to lift the bikes? Will a platform lift help with some of the bulkier items? How many of our new tools and toys can be hung from the walls? Will we still be able to park our vehicle inside or will that luxury be yet another victim in 2020?
Slatwall is often the solution to this storage dilemma. Since our needs vary with the season we need a storage solution that changes with the weather – bike lifts and kayaks must share wall space with ski boots and hockey nets so a static garage storage system may not always be the practical choice. And if budget considerations are a factor then we need to carefully research the cost of the various storage options. With a little research and careful planning we can absorb the increased storage load and be ready for whatever 2021 brings us.
Things are not always as they seem.
Imagine yourself standing in a store looking at an array of new printers. They run the gamut in price and you find two of them with the features you need and in a price range you want. One costs less and looks like the better choice … but wait! Find out the cost of and life expectancy of the ink – and then do the same thing for the higher priced model. If that second model has ink at half the price and lasts twice as long … who has spent more money at the end of a year?
This scenario applies to many of the products we use today. Take for example, slatwall and trackwall systems. On the surface, the box of slatwall is more expensive than trackwall so the choice seems obvious. The temptation is to go with the lower cost – after all, they both do the same thing don’t they? If you need to store items on your walls does it matter if they hang from a slatwall panel or a track? Not really. But what might matter is how much you want to hang. If you compare what that box of slatwall will cover with what the trackwall will cover, you will generally end up with 20 times the storage space if you go with slatwall. You will also want to know what’s included in each choice – are screws and endcaps included or do you need to purchase them separately? If you calculate how much of track you will need to cover the same amount of wall, you may find that the track system is actually costing you more than that box of slatwall. So, once again, who has spent more money now?
When we see what appears to be a generous offer, we want to believe. Our rational brain says “hold on a minute” but our emotional brain says “I want it and look at that price!” If we could train ourselves to take a step back and consider the situation, we might remember that manufacturers are not really in the business of saving us money. They need to maintain their profit margins, so it’s in there somewhere – hiding and hoping no one comes looking. At this point, you need to tell yourself, if it seems too good to be true – dig deeper. Read the fine print, ask for all the details. Are you paying over time? If so, what are the monthly payments? Then do the math and you will come up with what that deal is really going to cost you.
Human nature being what it is, we often opt for the short term gain. It is generally the easier path to take and the reward is often right in front of us. But all too often that short term gain masks some long term pain. Find a trigger that reminds you to hit a mental “pause” button that gives you a moment to step back and think clearly. Remember the old warning “act in haste, repent at leisure” the next time you see one of those “too good to be true” offers.
Take the time to do the math.
Those of us in the industry have been saying for years that the garage is one of the most overlooked opportunities in a home. As homeowners try to reconfigure rooms, finish basements, and consider moving, a large piece of home real estate is neglected time and time again. Builders were slow to come to the realization that promoting the garage as an extension of a home sets them apart from the pack and tells prospective buyers that they are ahead of the curve. There are exceptions, of course, but generally it is the proactive homeowner or those in the garage renovation business who drive the demand. The garage is becoming an essential room in the house, an extension of our busy lives. Unless you want your wall art to consist of hose reels and bike racks, you need a garage!
This year, perhaps fueled by the global pandemic, people are taking a hard look at their surroundings. Unwilling or unable to move about freely, they are looking at ways to get the most out of what they have. The garage presents a new frontier for many of them. Traditionally used basically for storage, today’s fresh perspective has opened up all sorts of possibilities. The current speed of change extends to the garage.
Garage storage transformation has gone from nails in studs to pegboard to stacked bins and on to slatwall and beautifully finished cabinets. And while garage workshops now look good, homeowners have moved on to fresh ideas. They no longer want to dedicate space to parking vehicles so they are turning their garages into playrooms, man caves, indoor patios, greenhouses, and home offices to name just a few. But, they still need to park their vehicles and store their stuff. Enter the rise of the tandem garage where forward thinking people have figured out a way to do both – install a car lift so they can park their vehicles overhead while creating the space they want below.
Car lifts are part of the basic equipment for mechanics, but in recent years, car buffs demanded them adapted for home garages so they could work on restoring their classic cars at home. Now the trend setters want to take that one step further. Will we remember this time as the beginning of the Garage Renaissance?
The day is fast approaching when your new home will come equipped with the garage storage solution you need and the additional living space you want.
The kayak, created by the Inuit over 4,000 years ago, was originally made from wooden frames covered in sealskin. They were primarily used for hunting and, when not in use, rested comfortably pulled up on the shore. It wasn’t until the mid 1800s kayaks began showing up in Europe and began a new life intended for sport. In the 1936 Berlin Olympics, kayaking was introduced as a competitive sport. In the early 1970s, kayaks moved into the mainstream and never looked back. Today there are many different kayaks designed for sea and touring use, whitewater or river, racing, surfing, fishing and the one you may be most familiar with, the recreational kayak.
Kayaks are now manufactured using a variety of material, dimensions fluctuate based on their purpose, and weight and cockpits are also varied. It is easy to understand why different kayaks have different storage needs, so if you are buying your own kayak it is important to know how to store it if you are to maintain its performance. For the purpose of this blog, we are considering the recreational kayak – the one that many of the outdoor enthusiasts tie on top of their car as they head to the water when their work week is over.
Kayaks are one of those bulky storage items that you need to figure out how to store in your own situation. They take up a lot of room and they are best kept indoors for protection from the sun. The heat may warp and fade the surface. If your plan is to use your garage for kayak storage, choose a place that is in a dark area away from any direct heat source. You have three choices for kayak garage storage:
1. On the Ground
Not considered the best option if you have children running in and out of the garage or if you park your car or outside equipment inside. Dampness and water will harm your kayak. Choose a level surface so the kayak can balance evenly with a wall behind to lean against. If you store it horizontally, place it on its side with the cockpit facing out, flip it onto its other side once a month. If vertical, keep it at a slight angle. The stern should be touching the ground and bow toward the ceiling. Padding underneath will protect it and help to keep the kayak in place. Support pegs on the both edges are a good idea.
2. On a Wall
Kayak wall storage is a better choice if you can place it high enough that car doors or people won’t bump into it. Do not hang your kayak from drywall or plywood, choose instead a sturdy surface that will support the weight of your kayak. Heavy-duty brackets need to be made from high-grade steel, covered with rubber cushion and feature a locking mechanisms for safety. Place the kayak on top of the brackets ensuring it is properly balanced. Make sure the brackets are equal distance from each end of the kayak, just outside of the cockpit. You may need to adjust the brackets so that the kayak is completely level and not tilting towards one side or the other.
3. From the Ceiling
Overhead or ceiling storage is considered the best choice for safety and security since there is no lifting overhead and no need for unreliable step ladders. Whether you choose to place your kayak on a rack or hang it from a sling, it should be in a dark place and out of the way until you need it. Your choices are a motorized lift or a manual hoist system and both offer you the convenience of being able to load from the floor and lift high above. You want to be sure that whichever system you choose has the correct weight capacity for your kayak, is easy to install, allows a single person to raise and lower objects, and features a solid locking mechanism to prevent accidental release.
When the sun is up, the breeze is wafting and the water is waiting, immerse yourself in the joy of kayaking. Don’t let the stress of what to do about kayak storage when you get home interrupt the pleasures of the day.
Remember when you were a kid and were about to make a really, really poor decision? Your parents would stop you (thankfully) and when you complained they would end the argument with, “When you grow up you’ll be in charge, but right now I’m in charge.”
Well, it happened, I grew up and now I’m in charge. But in charge of what I often wonder? So many of our buying decisions these days are being directed by someone else. Our every move is tracked by various internet platforms so advertisers can woo you with targeted ads based on what they know you’ll respond to. Social media channels take note of your interests and send you content you will be interested in. You have to wonder who else is watching your every move. You will be forgiven if you sometimes feel like shouting “just what am I in charge of?”
These thoughts came to mind recently when I was researching the way in which we acquire new garage cabinets. I was getting a little frustrated with the time I was spending scrolling through page upon page of various cabinet sets. At the end of all this effort I was presented with a “contact us” form and told a design team member would get back to me. Once again, I’m not in charge.
I’m not sure yet just what I want in my garage, but I know I don’t care for a take it or leave it choice. I know what will work in my garage, I know my family’s needs when it comes to storage. What will work for me, may not work for my neighbor, but hey, it’s MY garage! Now that modular garage storage cabinets are available, I want to be able to mix and match the pieces to find the storage solution that makes sense for me. The fun would come with a virtual 3D design tool that allows me to choose the cabinets I want and then play with different configurations until I have what I need.
Now, I am in charge! But I also recognize that sometimes, having someone else make a decision for you is a good thing. Otherwise, today I might be sporting a mullet in my graduation photos, or applying cover stick to the body piercing scars or, worst of all, shopping for hearing aids courtesy of the boom box I wore on my shoulder? Thanks Dad.
When it comes to a garage storage solution, however, I’m ready to be in charge.
Could the pandemic usher in a golden age of cycling?
We all know the environmental benefit of riding a bike versus driving your car in the city. However, until recently a lot of us have lacked the motivation or the courage to actually get the bike out and use it. Now that we are self isolating for long periods and reluctant to return to crowded public transport, the idea of riding your bike to work is much more attractive. The fact that cycling is a great way to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors is providing that missing motivation. Cities are taking notice of this shift in attitudes and working to accommodate those who want to use their bikes as a preferred mode of transportation.
It looks like our “new normal” will include a lot more riders and the $6 billion US bike industry will soar. Revenue was already predicted to increase by up to 8% in the next five years, but new estimates at the end of this pandemic will be telling.
For every plus, however, there is a negative. Bike storage is one of the biggest storage challenges for the rider – what do you do with your bike when you’re not on it? Bike storage is awkward and if you have limited storage space, you need to be creative. Leaning your bike against a wall isn’t a solution. Whether you keep your wheels in your apartment or in your garage, there are a number of things that can go wrong. Bikes are notorious for falling over, either on your car and scratching the paint, or on the walls, creating dings that may leave marks on the paint or even holes in your drywall. Bikes have also been known to track water, mud and grease into the storage area. And let’s not forget that kids tend to drop their bikes wherever they dismount and parents have been known to run over them.
So what are your bike storage options? The choices are floor stands, wall hooks/racks, and motorized overhead ceiling storage. Floor stands will hold multiple bikes, but you must have the floor space to spare. Walls hooks/racks free up that space, but you need the strength to lift the bike up and onto the hook. This may involve lifting the bike over your head or perching on a step ladder to reach the hook. The ideal solution for bike storage would free up your garage floor by using the unused overhead ceiling space. A mechanized bike lift is easily the safest and most sensible option if you need your bike out of the way but want to have frequent access. Only one person is needed for the job, the bike is loaded onto the lift from the floor level and the bike, or bikes, move up and down at the press of a button. You can rest easy knowing that a key lock switch will prevent accidental release. The bike lift itself is easy to install and simple to use.
If bike storage is your garage storage headache, consider ceiling storage as the best solution.
If you’re like me, you’ve lingered over photographs of beautiful kitchen remodels, imagining those beautiful cupboards standing in your own kitchen. It might follow that your next thoughts go to “I’ll put the old kitchen cabinets in the garage and use them to store things.” So what is wrong with using kitchen cabinets in the garage? Lots of DIY tips suggest doing just that as an economical and “green” alternative for those who favour function over fashion. I am not suggesting that they won’t work, they just might – but only if you keep the pitfalls in mind when you are making your decision.
The majority of kitchen cupboards today are manufactured using melamine or some other engineered wood-based product. They can be lovely to look at and will perform very well in an indoor environment. An afterlife in an unpredictable garage environment, however, might shorten their life expectancy considerably. Here’s why:
The climate in your kitchen probably doesn’t fluctuate a whole lot. And you are not likely to have weather blow in when the door opens or have hoses left on the floor dribbling water. But these are common occurrences in your garage. You could also have water that drips off your vehicle, evaporate into the air and settle on your cabinets. This can result in warping and those annoying doors that won’t close.
If nothing in your garage surpasses the height of beer stein or width of a dinner plate, then kitchen cupboards might be fine. The height of interior shelving in kitchen cupboards isn’t generally designed for a gallon of paint or wide enough for a portable compressor so you will want to ensure that garage cabinet shelves are adjustable.
It seems unlikely that something built for dinnerware will withstand the weight of power tools or car parts. Unless your kitchen cabinets are designed to hold heavy loads, the shelving inside might soon sag under the weight. Or crack and snap off spilling contents everywhere.
Finally, unless your culinary preferences lean toward teppanyaki dinners, you are unlikely (hopefully!) to have sparks flying in your kitchen which is a good thing since standard kitchen cupboards are considered flammable. And, if your children have been known to climb up to reach those Easter treats you hid in the back of a high kitchen cupboard, then those cupboards won’t deter them for getting to whatever dangerous content you are storing in those same cupboards in the garage. Sturdy locks are a must.
Garage cabinets offer maximum versatility making them an ideal storage solution to an uncluttered garage workshop. By gathering up all the things that accumulate on the floor, you are increasing your garage storage capacity while safely storing any hazardous products behind locked doors.
The experts agree that the most durable, strongest garage cabinets are the ones made with heavy duty steel. The best ones will have a combination of open storage and drawer space for items large and small and everything in between. The addition of locks, a built-in tool chest and a workbench bring it to the next level. Rugged steel cabinets are low maintenance, impervious to the garage environment, and will stand up to years of heavy use.
When it comes to garage renovations, it makes more sense to leave your kitchen cabinets in the kitchen where they belong.
Slatwall started out as a display setting for retail stores. The panels were made with horizontal grooves and were configured to accept a variety of hooks and hanging accessories. They were originally made with wood and later from fiberboard. When the garage organization movement began, they were not considered functional in storage systems because the garage environment could not be protected from water or humidity. Once pvc was used to manufacture slatwall, it soon became the SMART storage solution for many garage workshops. Here’s why.
imple to install. PVC slatwall is ideal in a garage workshop since it can be installed as a complete wall, a section, or a track. You don’t need a professional installer since it comes with all the necessary trims and hardware. Any weekend warrior with a stud finder, a saw and a drill can install a slatwall panel.
anufactured with an interlocking feature, you end up with a seamless appearance. If you have pvc slatwall, you do not have to worry about being affected by mold, mildew or water. It can be installed in damp locations where drywall and wood might absorb the humidity.
ffordable and Attractive. When you factor in the cost of drywall, mudding, painting and installation, slatwall gives you the best value per square or linear foot. A hidden screw design gives a clean look while a hook cavity allows for air circulation and lets you hide any wiring. Both result in a garage makeover with a professional looking finish.
eliable. With a selection of slatwall accessories that run from magnetic tool holders to heavy duty tire racks, there isn’t much you can’t store on slatwall. When testing is done by Independent third parties for impact, lifecycle, extreme temperatures, strength, load and sustainability and a lifetime warranty comes with it, you can depend on your system for years to come.
ough. Most of the gear you store weighs less than 20 lbs, but a slatwall panel with a hook cavity supports up to 75 lbs per square foot. And, at 2mm thick, slatwall is up to 25 times more impact resistant than drywall.
It is easy to see why slatwall is often the wall covering of choice in today’s garage organization projects.
“Builders who ‘tap into’ enhancing garage space to allow for storage solutions can make more money. They will bond with their buyers and stand out against their competition.” The garage may be considered the last “frontier” that home builders need to conquer. Thinking about 2020 and beyond, Proslat president Eric Letham identifies garage organizational trends that are good for builders’ business. The garage offers builders a way to offer buyers a solution to maximizing the space in a home as well as a way to connect with male homebuyers.
As the size of homes gets smaller, space in those homes becomes more valuable. That includes the garage. “It’s more important than ever for builders to turn garage space into efficient space for the home,” says Letham. “The reduction of size in the home makes the garage an even more important part of the ‘realty’ of the house.” The 2019 “What Home Buyers Really Want” report had almost 4,000 consumers rank 175 home features they believed were essential to their home purchase decisions. Garage storage ranked at 85% importance --- tied for fifth place.
According to Letham, it’s easy to see that the home buying experience is mostly geared to women. Tile selection, kitchen appliances, and faucet design --- it’s all about what women want. So, where do the men fit in and how can builders appeal to them? “The garage is the only part of the home that is truly ‘his’ when a couple gets a new home,” says Letham. “Builders too often leave this valuable space completely blank instead of turning it into a feature the male buyers connect with instantly.” If the garage storage solution starts with slatwall and extends to storage cabinets, racks and lifts, the man touring the house will envision himself, his tools, his hobbies and his equipment all filling that garage space,” says Letham. “By focusing more on him, he feels more connected to the house and will likely be more involved in the purchasing process.”
In 2020, homeowners need their garages to handle their lifestyle needs.
“People are getting more fit, which means they’re exercising more,” says Letham. “That means
they need bikes, kayaks, golf clubs, skis, or even surfboards. Where do they store these items? In
the garage.
“By having a garage storage system that includes lifts for kayaks and wall-mounted storage racks
for bicycles, potential homeowners will appreciate that easier access to their sports equipment
could equal more incentive to exercise.”
that garage space,” says Letham. “By focusing more on him, he feels more connected to the house and will likely be more involved in the purchasing process.”
In 2020, homeowners need their garages to handle their lifestyle needs.
“People are getting more fit, which means they’re exercising more,” says Letham. “That means
they need bikes, kayaks, golf clubs, skis, or even surfboards. Where do they store these items? In
the garage.
“By having a garage storage system that includes lifts for kayaks and wall-mounted storage racks
for bicycles, potential homeowners will appreciate that easier access to their sports equipment
could equal more incentive to exercise.”
that garage space,” says Letham. “By focusing more on him, he feels more connected to the house and will likely be more involved in the purchasing process.”
Controlling space inside the home is currently accomplished with designer closets, revolving
cabinets and kitchen islands. What about the garage?
Letham believes that builders need to think of garage organizational systems as a piece of the
sales puzzle. If the puzzle isn’t complete, the result may be a lost sale.
The 2019 Consumer Practices Survey reports that the most popular features of home garage
storage systems purchased by homeowners include tool storage, cabinets with shelves and
drawers, workbench or countertop, gardening equipment storage and sporting good storage.
These products were all purchased after a home sale. Instead, Letham suggests builders install
these products before the home is purchased to influence the sale.
“A builder who offers a garage storage system is holding the missing piece of the puzzle.”
Controlling space inside the home is currently accomplished with designer closets, revolving
cabinets and kitchen islands. What about the garage?
Letham believes that builders need to think of garage organizational systems as a piece of the
sales puzzle. If the puzzle isn’t complete, the result may be a lost sale.
The 2019 Consumer Practices Survey reports that the most popular features of home garage
storage systems purchased by homeowners include tool storage, cabinets with shelves and
drawers, workbench or countertop, gardening equipment storage and sporting good storage.
These products were all purchased after a home sale. Instead, Letham suggests builders install
these products before the home is purchased to influence the sale.
“A builder who offers a garage storage system is holding the missing piece of the puzzle.”
Garage storage systems should be thought of as “functional interior siding” according to Letham.
“For builders to maximize their investments in the home construction process, they need to adopt
an attitude that slatwall is an essential building material,” says Letham. “Showing is selling.
Once a builder walks potential homeowners through a ‘ready-to-use’ garage, then the
homeowners envision themselves in the garage as an extension of the house itself.
“The investment in outfitting the garage will pay off by setting a home apart, making it more
memorable, with ‘must have’ features.”
Builders who tap into offering garage storage system as a standard feature set themselves apart
from the competition. And that can only be good for business.