Garage Shelves: Just for Storage or Capable of More?

While the main purpose of a garage shelf system is adding storage, they can also offer extras you may not be aware of. Learn more about all your options today!

A garage interior with a man working on his car.

Photo: Unsplash

In too many cases, the garage is nothing more than a space for cars, junk, and boxes. But we think it can be the opposite. When you combine great garage shelf ideas with a touch of creativity, you can get a stylish space with storage options that fit the needs of any home. It can be a space you are proud of.

This post will look at all the options available to you in terms of garage shelf systems and individual shelves. We’ll help you decide on the perfect space to match all your needs. Then all you have to do is install the right shelving system.

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You like this garage door? This is an Eastman E-11, 10'x7', Desert Sand door and overlays, 8 lite Panoramic windows

Make Sure You’re Ready

Prior to jumping into this project, you need to make sure the garage is ready for everything coming in the future. The first step is considering what items you plan to place on the shelves. Will it be tools? Keepsakes you want to store? Gardening items? Get a realistic idea of what will be stored before moving on.

One thing that most garages have in common is that they deal with a lot of humidity and heat. This can create excess moisture and be an issue with storing some items. Inspect your garage for any signs of condensation so you can manage the problem before you start installing shelves. Not sure why condensation is important?

Condensation Can Cause:

● Metal objects may rust and become brittle

● Cloth and paper items can experience mildew

● Photographs could deteriorate

● Paint on various items could be damaged

● In the most severe cases, it can create growth of mold

If you have condensation, it needs to be dealt with. There are many things you can do, but the areas to pay the most attention to are the seals near the garage door windows and the seal around your garage door.

Not comfortable handling the process on your own? That’s okay! Call a garage door expert to take a look at things and handle needed repairs.

Everything looking good? Then it’s the right time to start looking at what the best garage shelf ideas can offer you and your garage.

The Basic Shelf System

Shelves come in many types of materials including metal, plastic, and combination metal and wood. The typical version is going to be a freestanding model that you can place wherever you like. These offer a huge amount of value and versatility. The price is right and these make up the most common choice for storage.

One thing to keep in mind is that these can be plain so those who want a certain aesthetic may have to make them into a project. You could add some paint for a simple update or consider other options instead. Now that you know what to expect from a basic shelf system, let’s look at each type and what it offers.

You like getting things organized AND cute? See these 25 garage door storage ideas from Abby Lawson, justagirlandherblog.com

Choosing Between Shelf Material Options

Plastic – Are you looking for an option that is inexpensive, simple to use, and easy to find? Plastic shelves are sold at big box stores, online, or stores in your neighborhood. These shelves are made to be lightweight and durable without costing a lot. Many of them are made to hold large amounts of items. Just remember that plastic shelves aren’t for overly heavy items like paint cans or large tools. If that’s something you need to store, consider a different option.

Metal/Wood – Another widely used shelf system is made of metal and wood. It’s easy to find and typically incorporates wooden (or wood-like) shelves and a durable metal frame. While the metal frame is strong, the wood shelves make it less durable than a shelf that is made out of nothing but metal. You should also know the wooden shelves can degrade over time and stains are more likely to occur.

All-Metal – Another choice is a shelf made entirely out of metal. These are super durable and strong. Some are solid metal and others use wire shelves to hold items. These tend to be the least aesthetically pleasing but can handle heavy weights.

Storage on the Garage Wall

If you want to save space, consider shelves that anchor into the walls. These come in sets but are more commonly individual shelves. These can be wood, metal, or a combination of the two.

Wall-Mounted Shelf Considerations

● Offers a way to save floor space.

● Typically offers less storage volume than a freestanding shelf will.

● Includes flexibility so you can install shelves where they are needed.

● Can create a great aesthetic when compared to freestanding shelf options.

Storage from the Ceiling

Another choice is a shelf system overhead. Most of these are metal. They have sections that attach to the ceiling and then come down to hold a shelf

Browse these 10 Great Overhead Storage Ideas For The Garage from Homedit

Considerations of Overhead Shelves

● You get additional floor space, so you have additional room for other items.

● You’ll have to make sure the shelves don’t pass the garage door path.

● Some versions use the space hidden on top of the door.

● They offer less storage volume but create more friendly storage space.

When you choose the right shelving system, you get style and storage. However, to choose the right option, look around the garage first.

Is any maintenance needed for the garage door tracks? Is your garage door getting old? Should it be replaced? If these things are true, take care of them now with the help of an expert. It’s easier and quicker than you might expect.

Before you start organizing all your stuff, maybe you need to replace your garage door with something new and brimming with insulation. Worried about costs? Don’t be. Read more about the expected cost of a garage door.

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You like full-view garage doors? These are California, 6'x8'-6" and 16'x 8'-6", Black aluminum frame, Sandblasted glass

Do You Want to Replace the Door Now?

Contact an expert in garage doors near you to get an idea of your options. They can also share information about services, such as track repair and maintenance. Anything garage-related is on the radar so take advantage of your options.

We’ll share the information you need to create the best indoor storage space while keeping your home’s aesthetic intact and increasing curb appeal.

North Country Door Systems has several ways for you to contact us. For an easy solution, try an email quotation.

Not sure what style your home is? Take a look at the 3 styles so you choose the right garage door for your needs.

Speak with us at 518-562-8310.

We’re happy to help you make an educated decision.

Add some creativity to the process.

Check out our Design Centre. You can upload a photo of your house and see what all the garage doors look like on it. It gives a realistic idea of what you can expect from different choices.

Still not sure what to choose?

You’ll find lots of gorgeous residential garage doors waiting for you here. All you need to do is set aside a few minutes to see your options and find out what we offer you!

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