Seeing as you’re a do-it-yourself enthusiast, you may be considering turning your garage into a workshop. We can help you pick the best garage renovation styles for the type of projects you’re likely to take on.
If you love to tinker with electronics and build furniture from scratch, you’ll want to think about turning your garage into a workshop space. While it’s a good thing to have a workshop at home, it’s not where you want to spend your downtime.
We’ll help you plan out your garage renovation project so you can have a space that’s both functional and beautiful. Keep reading to find out how.
Lighting
Renovating your garage into a workshop is a great way to make use of the extra space you have. To make a safe, efficient environment, having the right lighting is essential. When choosing the style and wattage of your lights, opt for bright, adjustable lighting that offers clear visibility without dazzling you.
Consider outfitting the workshop with task lighting, wall sconces, under-cabinet lighting, or pendant fixtures above your workbench. For ceiling fixtures, overhead lights (like fluorescent or incandescent) that can evenly distribute light across the entire garage are your best bet.
Lighting should be a part of your early planning, as it’s an important factor in how you live and use your space. Once you’ve got the lighting plan worked out, you’ll be able to make more informed decisions on the rest of your garage renovation.
Flooring
It’s important to choose a flooring material that is durable to withstand any heavy-duty tools and elevated levels of wear and tear. While still providing a cushion in case of accidental drops.
Some popular choices are:
- epoxy flooring
- floor tiles
Epoxy flooring provides an extra layer of protection while providing a glossy and customized look. Floor tile has slip-resistance properties which can be useful in a busy workshop.
When considering renovations for your workshop have a look at this. Consult a professional to determine the most appropriate floor coating for your needs. With the right floor covering, you can turn your garage into a functional and safe workshop.
Ventilation
Whether it be the smell of paint, petrol, or the heat that the workshop creates. Having good ventilation can help to improve the quality of the air in the workspace.
Installing a mechanical ventilation system or extractor fans is an easy and effective way to draw unwanted smells and particles out via ducting. It can also reduce humidity levels, reduce the risk of overheating and prevent moisture build-up that can leech into the building fabric and cause mold.
Adding windows and vents to the garage could also help to increase natural airflow and improve the efficiency of the space. Additionally, you should also look at installing additional insulation in the roof, walls, and floors to help keep the garage warm during the colder months.
Insulation
Poor insulation will make the space difficult to heat, causing an uncomfortable work environment. Additionally, poor insulation impacts the performance of tools, leading to work errors.
In cold winter climates, condensation with inadequate insulation can result in costly damages and repairs due to frozen water pipes and tools. Make sure you choose the right insulation for the job.
Insulate the walls and ceilings since both can be impacted by home temperature fluctuations. Ensure to close any gaps and cracks in the wall or ceiling as these can lead to air and moisture drafts.
Consider using a double layer of insulation board or an insulating foam board that has a foil backing on it to help reflect radiant heat into the workspace.
Storage
Before making any decisions, begin by pinpointing what you need to store, as well as items that will be regularly used in the workshop. Is the primary function of the space to store tools or materials, or is the garage being renovated for hobbyist activities?
Evaluate the size of the available space in the garage and determine what can realistically be stored or hung. Install shelves, cabinets, strong wall hooks, and organizational bars to get items off the ground.
Create a designated space for frequently used items and for the least used materials. A workbench with built-in storage will further maximize space.
Consider using pegboards to hang tools and making drawers for tools and smaller items. Additional storage options can include laying down suspended ceiling grids, storage racks, and plastic bins on high shelves.
Electrical Outlets
Electrical outlets are one of the most important aspects of the renovation of one’s garage into a DIY workshop. Proper outlets must be installed to power the various tools, machines, and lighting that will be used in a workshop.
They should be chosen according to their amperage load and circuit size, so they can safely supply the necessary power. Installation should also be done according to code, leaving no room for mistakes. GFCI should be used in areas around water sources, and all outlets should have sufficient ground wiring.
Installing smart outlets may also be beneficial, allowing for remote control of the power outlet and personalized automation. Taking the time to consider the power demands and choosing the best outlets can save time and money in the long run.
Finishing Touches For a Perfect Garage Renovation
A garage renovation can be an amazing investment to add efficiency and value to your home. It can be a hassle to complete but the rewards are worth it in the long run.
With the right design plan, tools, and space, you can turn your garage into a workshop that fits all your needs perfectly. Don’t wait – take action now to start your very own workshop.
If you enjoyed this walkthrough on garage ideas, you can check out the rest of our blog for more informative articles.
