Consider a line of demarcation in your garage to separate household from workshop.
If you dont have enough room,consider a smaller-space workbench, or rent off-site storage.
You could evenbuild a shedfor more covered storage.
Beyond that, workshop safety is your number one concern.
Keep your work table clear.
This gives you the most room to operate and you wont misplace nuts and bolts under paper or trash.
The base and legs should be sturdy and the table should not easily be knocked over.
The top should be durable and not easily dinged or dented.
double-check your workbench is made of a material appropriate for your types of projects, too.
Choose (or Build) Tool Storage
The primary investment of any garage workshop are the tools.
Protect your investment witha high quality tool chestthat is neatly organized and (if needed) lockable.
We recommend installing drawer mats to keep your tools from sliding around.
They also give your tools a softer cushion to rest in.
Usea pegboard to organize your wall spaceand store the tools that require quick access.
see to it Electrical Outlets Are in Reach
Stop schlepping extensions cords across your garage floor.
You simply can never have too many outlets and its much safer to have too many than not enough.
Bring in an electrician to help install your outlets and setup 220v power if needed for larger shop tools.
A simple, adjustablework lampis helpful for soldering or when you need bright focused lighting.
For overall room light, overheadfluorescent lightsare tough to beat.
Theyre economical and bright.
That means itll inevitably be super hot and stuffy in the summer, and freezing cold in the winter.
Anepoxy floor finishis easier to clean and can also provide extra grip.
Plus, passive ventilation (like opening a window) usually isnt enough.
Did we leave out any must-haves for your ultimate garage workshop?
Photos byHarrison Architects,Kubasa,Over-the-River,Gladiator Garageworks,Dmitry Barsky.
