 The Garage
is a Room,Too!
Rediscovering, revamping and
reclaiming this valuable space
BY ERNIE ALTGELT
Think interior remodeling, and what generally comes to mind are bathrooms, kitchens, dens and bedrooms — just about any space except the garage. Why? Your garage is a room, too, and it’s really pretty wonderful when considered. For far too many homeowners, unfortunately, the lowly garage has devolved from a functional residential asset that comfortably and efficiently protects our cars, bikes, lawn mowers, and even workshops and laundry rooms, to a refuse-cluttered, unsightly (and, at times, frightening) no man’s land that’s often best avoided. With a little motivation, planning and effort, however, the maligned garage can be reclaimed, not only restoring (even enhancing) its usefulness, but possibly adding value to the entire property as well.
Clear the clutter
Before tackling a garage re-do, get the junk out! Now is the time to take stock, determine what’s important and, likewise, what can go. This might be the perfect opportunity to host a garage sale. If that’s not appealing, separate the usable from the trash, and consider contacting a charitable collection service for the items you don’t want.
After you’ve cleared the clutter, perform an inspection. Look for areas where repairs might be needed. Wiring, plumbing, structural integrity – everything should be assessed for safety and functionality. When in doubt, consult an expert.
 Reassess
With the basic structure squared away, take a close look at your garage and ask yourself, “What do I want this space to do?” Will it primarily be used to house a vehicle? How about tool storage and a workbench? Where will the kayak go? Are there hot water connections and enough electrical outlets? Whatever your ultimate needs, make lists and drawings. Develop a floor plan showing what goes where – you can always make modifications as the work progresses, but it’s best to lay things out in advance. Think in terms of ultimately utilizing all areas of the garage, including the area under the roof. Exposed rafters can be decked, yielding additional, valuable storage space.
Get inspired
As to what can be accomplished, a good place for inspiration is the Web. Google “garages” or “garage remodeling.” You’ll find a number of Web sites for companies that specialize in garage makeovers. Many will have helpful “before and after” pictures highlighting their work and the products used. Another source might be a neighbor or a friend who has recently revamped his or her garage. Give them a call. They will be delighted to give you a tour, share their experiences (positive and negative) and offer advice. The important thing is research. You’ll be amazed at all of the imaginative devices, techniques, technology and even experts available that can ensure a successful garage transformation.
Deck the walls
Good examples are today’s wall treatments. There are several exceptional wall systems on the market that allow incredible flexibility. Most feature horizontally grooved panels that are applied over the existing walls. These panels can be trimmed to fit snugly around windows and doors. Molding is applied along the seams. After installation, the result is an attractive “finished” appearance from floor to ceiling. The real beauty, however, is how efficiently these panels can accommodate a variety of movable hooks, posts, brackets and other attachments (that lock into the grooves) ideal for “hanging” just about anything large or small, high, low or in between. Attachable cabinets and shelving in various shapes and sizes are also available.
Floor it
A new floor can also contribute significantly to a garage’s appearance and safety. If you currently have a concrete floor, various manufacturers offer extremely durable, high-tech colored coatings and/or floor tiles that can be applied, leaving an attractive, slip-resistant (and easily cleanable) surface. With good sub-flooring in place, installation is generally simple and quick.
 Do a new door
One additional task for bringing your garage into the 21st century might include replacing the large entry doors. If your existing garage has old, clumsy, heavy doors, consider upgrading to a lightweight “overhead” motorized model. Your back will thank you. If your current doors have a vertical center support, install a new door that doesn’t require one. You’ll quickly appreciate not having that “post” in the way every time you want to pull your car in.
Get in the zone
Once you are ready to restock your gussied-up garage, think about the items, their uses and how often they will be needed. You might consider creating “zones” with, for example, all of the lawn equipment in one area and automotive supplies and tools in another. Organizing in this way can assist in locating things later. Keep oft-needed items readily accessible. Most importantly, for appearance and safety, always maintain an open and uncluttered floor space.
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