Four Steps for Attacking Garage Organization

MISSION, KS--(Marketwired - Apr 14, 2014) - (Family Features) Organizing the garage may be one of the most feared tasks in household history. According to a recent Gladiator GarageWorks survey, nearly three out of four households can only park one car in their two-car garage, illustrating the need for a serious garage intervention.

The importance of having a well-organized garage isn't only for improved functionality -- it also helps add overall value to a home. More than 80 percent of real estate brokers or agents recently surveyed said that a cluttered, unorganized garage can have a negative impact on a potential home buyer's first impression.

Since the garage is often used as the "front door" to homes, having an untidy garage can be very unwelcoming.

There are a few steps that can help homeowners prepare for the ultimate battle against clutter and reclaim their space in the garage:

1. Clean and Prep
Clutter is one of the biggest issues with garage organization. The only way to know what is in the garage is to remove all of the items inside and start with a clean slate. As you remove items from the garage, be realistic about what you do and do not use and move them into categories:

• Keep items you use regularly.
• Donate or sell items that are still in good shape but aren't being used regularly.
• Toss items that are broken and that you don't need.
  
  

2. Have a Game Plan
First, measure the garage so you can make an accurate plan for storage solutions and factor in large items, such as lawn mowers and sporting equipment. Next, decide how to group similar items and what your storage needs are. For example, do you prefer to hang items on hooks, store in baskets or be able to hide items in cabinets? Start exploring your options with design tools, such as the one at www.gladiatorgw.com, to finalize your plans.

3. Build Your Storage System
Use the walls in your garage to get gear off the floor and maximize storage space by choosing storage solutions that are durable and long lasting. Stackable plastic storage bins or shelving units can sometimes reduce clutter, but they aren't always built to handle extreme temperatures in the garage. They also provide limited design flexibility and access to items when you need them.

"Consider a modular storage system for the walls -- they get everything off the floor and allow you to customize so you can reclaim your space," said Karl Champley, DIY expert and master builder. "These garage systems are convenient and easy to install giving you the ultimate wall storage solution for baskets, shelves, hooks and various other accessories. These systems are the perfect way to achieve the dream garage."

Gladiator GarageWorks modular storage system "starter kits" are available at most major home improvement retailers and can help homeowners start to organize cluttered areas of the garage. 

4. Add Final Touches 
Once you have stored large items in your garage, it's time to add some final touches to maximize efficiency and make your workspace functional. 

• Keep a trashcan nearby your work area so it stays free of garbage and debris.
• Hang tools near your workbench so you can easily put them back in their proper place.
• Utilize smaller bins and storage containers for screws, nails and other small items so they don't clutter your space.
  
  

With these steps in mind, tackling a garage organization project should be much easier. To find additional organizational tips and ideas, visit www.gladiatorgw.com.

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