Organize Your Garage

When it comes to utilitarian spaces in your home, it’s hard to argue with the versatility of a garage. These large, open spaces offer indoor protection, while remaining an easy-to-clean outdoor space. As we get closer and closer to winter and its wonderful weather, the value of having a garage goes beyond simply having extra storage or somewhere to park. Take the time now and prepare your garage for the season ahead- you might be surprised just how useful that space can be!

• Nothing beats a garage for keeping your car out of the weather while parked. There’s no worries about having to scrape ice from the windshield on a cold, frosty morning. You won’t need to brave the elements getting to and from your car- especially helpful when you’re returning home with a load of groceries. Your garage is the perfect in-between, giving you a spot to protect your car and also make using it just a little more comfortable on the coldest of days. Just be sure to always have your garage door open- and any doors going into your home closed- before turning on your vehicle’s ignition while in your garage.
• Garages are a great spot to build an impromptu mud room area. Add a bench and you now have somewhere that you can take off your muddy and wet boots before coming inside. It’s much easier to clean out a slab of concrete, than trying to clean your carpets or having to worry about damaging the finish on your wood floors.
• Garages have typically been used for extra storage, when the closets are full and you don’t want to journey into the basement or attic. Make sure that all of your winter essentials are readily available: snow shovels, snow chains, a jump-start box should your battery run down over night, or an air compressor to inflate tires that begin to run low. Don’t forget to also set aside any winter clothing you might’ve stored during the off season, along with the holiday decorations!
• Keep a work area open and ready. You never know when a DIY project might come up, where you need a few tools and somewhere to work. Having a basic workbench (which you can build yourself) and organized tools can make the difference between a quick fix, and having to call a professional after-hours and paying a fortune for a small fix you probably could’ve handled yourself.
• Garages are an excellent spot for “outdoor” activities you’d otherwise skip due to the weather. Once you provide some heat, your options really open up. If you have the space, set up some exercise equipment to make a makeshift home gym- great for days when you don’t feel like battling the elements just to drive to the gym.
• Look out for red flags that could be threatening your home, from pests and termites to leaky roofs or humidity buildup through condensation. Garages are often some of the first locations to show the signs of these common home ailments, so keeping your garage clean and clear can help you see the signs as soon as possible.

Don’t let your garage go unused or underutilized this winter. Turn that space into a useful, practical environment where you can make dealing with inclement weather even easier. A few hours devoted to clearing and cleaning today, could be worth the trouble once the cold winter months are here.