There are many ways to use a garage, and it doesn't necessarily have to be to store a car. The space can also serve as an office, playroom, an extra bedroom, a small room for your child to play in, so why leave it unkempt?
Below, you will find out some great DIY garage repair ideas to improve the structure and make good use of the space!
1. Make a careful inspection
A garage inspection is the first thing you should consider. If you hire a professional for it, they will show you exactly what your garage needs and what projects you should consider. If you’re doing this on your own, here are a few things to watch out for:
- Make sure there is minimal rot
- Take a good look at the base to see if it's still in good condition
- Check the structural integrity of the walls, beams, and foundation
- Beware of lead paints
If the frame is leaning to one side or the other, it can often be easily repaired by a professional.
If you are going to paint the exterior, be aware that you will likely have to deal with lead paint if your garage is a bit older. Don't scrape or sand with an electric sander if you’re not sure what type of paint you’re dealing with. You can harm the soil, your family, and yourself. Follow all professional recommendations for handling lead paint.
2. Strengthen the beams
The beams sustain the roof, so it’s safe to say that they are one of the most important aspects of the structure. Hire a local professional to do an inspection and make sure they’re in great condition.
You should also consider strengthening them, enlarging the vertical beams, and maybe installing extra horizontal frame members, also known as collar loops.
3. Install vapor barriers under the concrete slab
When renovating the garage, it’s good to install a large vapor barrier before laying a concrete slab. This product will prevent moisture from entering the garage and rusting all the metal there.
Remember: Before installing a concrete slab, you should also consider installing a drain on the garage floor to collect any melted water that might come out of your car during winter. This also prevents flooding when spring arrives.
4. Have electricity in the garage
Even if you’re using the space solely o store your car, you should consider extending the electricity from your house to the garage. Don’t forget to follow all safety codes, though!
If you use power tools and other heavy-duty power systems, such as pressure washers, power welders, and air compressors, mention that to your electrician to make sure they adequate the system properly.
5. Try a different door
A new garage door can do wonders for your curb appeal. A popular choice nowadays is the wifi garage door opener, which lets you control it with either your tablet or smartphone. These options often have a battery backup, so you don’t have to worry about being locked out when there is a power outage.
Talk to a local garage door installation company to check out your options!
6. You Can’t Escape the Clear Protective Coat
There is no getting around it. You must add a protective covering to the exterior of your wooden garage. If you don’t, you are just asking for more repairs in the future. Why throw away money when all you have to do is take some time to go outside?
If you want some color, go ahead and paint or stain first. After your choice of tint is dry, add the protective coat. It will seal the color to ensure a long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing wooden garage.
7. Be prepared to let go
After inspection, be honest with yourself. Even someone with minimal carpentry skills can find out how much of their building needs to be fixed. If your wooden garage is more than half damaged by decay or other problems, you're going to have a tough decision to make.
It may be hard to say goodbye to the old wooden garage, but depending on the amount of repairs you need to do, it may be worth it. As a general rule of thumb, whenever your repair costs exceed the cost of a new structure, you should always go for the latter.
Now that you know what to do for tidying the garage yourself, you can start your work calmly and knowledgeably, but of course, without turning down professional help when needed.
Talk to local garage repair contractors and request a free quote for your project!
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