Overhead Storage System

That ceiling space in your garage is there for a reason—storing stuff. Why try to cram all your goods on the floor? After all, a garage’s floor is only so big. You can run out of room on it pretty quickly and, if you’re like some people, start to have trouble even fitting your car into the garage. This is a more common problem than you might think: 42% of Americans whose homes have a two-car garage can only fit one car inside theirs.

Does this sound like your garage? If it does, then you know you need to start utilizing the garage space above your head. It will be easy enough to do if you install the right overhead storage system.

Visit hardware and home-maintenance stores in your town to see what they sell in the way of overhead storage units. They come in different shapes and sizes, just like the garages that house them, so judge wisely to make sure you’re getting the overhead storage system that is best for you.

Your evaluation starts by going over all that stuff now in your garage and figuring out what you could store there for at least three months. Things that you might be using on a semi-frequent basis should probably stay at ground level where they will be easier to reach.

Then figure out where you will hang the units’ components. Storage racks should go fairly close to the walls. Over the garage door would be the ideal place, as a general rule. But that won’t work if your garage’s ceiling is too low, in which case you should place the storage unit components along the wall.

And in any case, the components should hang so as not to interfere with the garage door’s operations. Keep enough room cleared out for the door to open and close, and for the electrical boxes and outlets to remain in open view. Also, check the garage rafters and the studs that secure them to the walls to make sure that they are solid enough to support the unit’s weight.

Once you’ve found your overhead storage system, it’s time to install it. Lay out all the pieces and pour over the instructions. If a piece is missing, you’ll be better off knowing now rather than later. Once you’ve got everything set up, you’ll have a handy array of shelves and compartments to keep your garage floor free.