Struggling with space...

[Greenlawnracing]

Isn't everyone though? Its a little ironic that I went from a three car garage to a two car garage, and now back to a three car garage - but am having issues with space. I'm also getting an outdoor shed, so the other items I used to store in the garage (yard tools, lawn mower, ladder, etc) are no longer taking up any space. I chalk it up to builders making garages smaller and smaller these days. A quick measurement puts me right around 600 SF which as per Google is small.

Been googling away looking for ideas, but thought I'd see if anyone could throw some ideas out there. My wife and I have been rearranging over and over for the last two days, but are drawing blanks.

Couple of things to keep in mind:

The Escape will be replaced with a Nissan Maxima which is 15 inches longer and two inches wider. I'd have it in the garage now, but I just moved and it isn't here yet.

Escape (Maxima) needs to go to the right a few inches as you can't get out of it without getting super creative. In a perfect world, you'd be able to get a car seat in and out of the 4Runner, but that is probably wishful thinking.

I actually have three bicycles to store - one of them is currently inside on the trainer. The one on the left has to be moved - I can't get past it to get into the garage without getting creative.

I did try to hang all three bicycles by one wheel on the right side of the garage, but its super windy in Oklahoma - when I opened the garage door they blew into the Z.

I intend to place cabinets across the front of the garage and do away with all of the shelves unless someone has a better idea. I'd have them already, but the ones I've got my eye on are two and a half hours away. Once I've purchased them, both shelves (the floor standing and wall mounted) will go away. The boxes will also go - they have items that will go into the cabinets.

https://www.menards.com/main/storag...nate-laundry-wall-cabinet/p-1444451717510.htm

Finally, I have to find a way to mount both of my bike racks on the wall. Both are Kuats - the larger one is on the back of the 4Runner. I'll be using two of these mounts, and assume the only place they can go is the front of the garage - the larger one is about 26 inches in depth. The larger one is also 91 pounds, so it needs to be relatively close to the ground.

https://www.etrailer.com/Accessorie...26aUDz0l3sTp30DzunpCSPB-oHkZqvBhoCSrwQAvD_BwE


Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

 

[Greenlawnracing]

Few more pix

 

[rburke65]

I'm thinking a nice 40'x60'pole barn will solve you space problems.

 

[Greenlawnracing]

I'm thinking a nice 40'x60'pole barn will solve you space problems.

As do I - don't think the HOA will allow it though. In fact I'm not sure that my backyard is 40 X 60.

 

[zxttfan]

Overhead storage rack like a Safe Rack? They install into the joists/trusses in the ceiling and should fit over the Z.

 

[Greenlawnracing]

Overhead storage rack like a Safe Rack? They install into the joists/trusses in the ceiling and should fit over the Z.

I actually have something similar from Hy Loft - just haven't installed it yet. I assume the quality is not nearly as good as Safe Rack.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002IGHKM/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Unfortunately all that does is relocate some stuff that would be in the cabinets. I really need to figure out this Tetris configuration of cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and bike racks.

 

[hangfirew8]

Lots of unused wall space there. Take down that silly one small shelf by itself and start putting up serious shelving.

Be careful of just hanging stuff inefficiently, a bicycle can take up a lot of wall, unless hung on edge. There are good bicycle wheel hooks you can use. Since you have OK wind issues, consider some kind of tie-down for the lower wheel.

 

[zxttfan]

Would the Hy Loft racks allow you to forgo some of the cabinets so you could maybe stack 2 of the bicycles on a back wall in front of the Z?

 

[-Brent-]

Honestly, you just have too many vehicles in the garage. Can't do all that much more when there are 3 cars and 2 motorcycles.

 

[The_Auto_Tech]

I agree, too many vehicles in the garage. The idea for the third stall is supposed to be for bicycles, ride-on mowers, etc. I don't know of anyone who actually uses it for a vehicle unless there's nothing else that needs to go into the garage. To me your only option would be to build a large shed. Also, I would never want my garage to be permanently used to store vehicles without being able to work in it. Your other problem is definitely that your garage is shallow. Mine is a one car garage but is 27x15. It's very deep which is awesome.

 

[Greenlawnracing]

Lots of unused wall space there. Take down that silly one small shelf by itself and start putting up serious shelving.

Be careful of just hanging stuff inefficiently, a bicycle can take up a lot of wall, unless hung on edge. There are good bicycle wheel hooks you can use. Since you have OK wind issues, consider some kind of tie-down for the lower wheel.

Well I had been "saving" the front of the garage until I got some cabinets - I assumed they were the most effective means of storage for all the **** that usually goes on shelves. I had them in my old garage, and the top of them doubled as shelving. I had a few Hy Loft shelves left over, so I started to put them up as a temporary solution until I got cabinets.

I assume this is what you are referring to for the bicycles?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009I8ANM/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Would the Hy Loft racks allow you to forgo some of the cabinets so you could maybe stack 2 of the bicycles on a back wall in front of the Z?

Possible. I hadn't thought about using one again because last time I had it as an "only option" in a two car garage.

Honestly, you just have too many vehicles in the garage. Can't do all that much more when there are 3 cars and 2 motorcycles.

Unfortunately I just don't have a choice. Its hailing as we speak, so I need to be able to get the vehicles into the garage on a regular basis. I actually have a truck as well, which has to go behind whichever car isn't being used since the HOA doesn't allow them on the street.

Do appreciate all of the input, keep it coming! My last garage was only a two car, but it was wider and thus I could get bicycles next to the garage track and a motorcycle next to the car.

 

[The_Auto_Tech]

Not sure what else to tell you. It's like 10 pounds of **** in a 5 pound bag.

 

[Greenlawnracing]

Lots of unused wall space there. Take down that silly one small shelf by itself and start putting up serious shelving.

Be careful of just hanging stuff inefficiently, a bicycle can take up a lot of wall, unless hung on edge. There are good bicycle wheel hooks you can use. Since you have OK wind issues, consider some kind of tie-down for the lower wheel.

https://www.storeyourboard.com/steady-rack-vertical-bike.html

Think I'm following you - just not sure exactly where to put them yet. I just measured, and they won't fit over the Z, but could potentially go in front of them - just couldn't open the door to the hot water heater which probably is an unlikely event.

 

[Slednut]

How far are your cars from the garage door when it’s closed? A string hanging from the ceiling or some kind of stop so the cars are as far back in the garage as possible can add room.

A shed in the back yard for the two wheeled vehicles could also be an option.

 

[Greenlawnracing]

How far are your cars from the garage door when it’s closed? A string hanging from the ceiling or some kind of stop so the cars are as far back in the garage as possible can add room.

A shed in the back yard for the two wheeled vehicles could also be an option.

I actually do intend to buy a shed - in fact all of my various **** (lawn mower, shovels, weed eater, etc) are all sitting outside on the back porch until I make the purchase. However those things typically aren't that secure - I don't mind if my $50 pressure washer getting stolen, but would have tough time racing if a motorcycle gets stolen.

Side note: must be less than 10 X 10 and 8 feet tall - which means it will likely be a 7 X 7. Looking for recommendations.

The 4Runner is right against the garage door - in fact my wife actually rubbed it the other day. The Escape has a little more room, but Google says that the Maxima is the same length as the 4Runner.

Now there is a little it of room with the Z - what did you have in mind? Only thing to keep in mind is that if a storm hits I need to be able to toss it outside quickly - need to be able to pull the Z forward so that I can get into the storm shelter.

 

[-Brent-]

Re: shed security

Based on your size restriction, I wouldn't want to put the motorcycles out there, either. But, you can have a pretty secure shed, without a doubt. There are things you can do to make them less tamper proof and if your home has a security system, you can include the shed into that system.

Both my detached garage and shed have sensors and such that are included in the security system. It would **** for a thief on either of those buildings because it's all silent, too.

 

[The_Auto_Tech]

Re: shed security

Based on your size restriction, I wouldn't want to put the motorcycles out there, either. But, you can have a pretty secure shed, without a doubt. There are things you can do to make them less tamper proof and if your home has a security system, you can include the shed into that system.

Both my detached garage and shed have sensors and such that are included in the security system. It would **** for a thief on either of those buildings because it's all silent, too.

Yes, I've done this with my garage and shed as well. They have motion sensors on the doors that if the doors move it triggers the alarm and turns on all my security cameras. My thought is that make it known that there's security at your place, it prevents thieves from trying in the first place. They're generally not looking for the hard stuff to steal that may get them caught or worse, shot.

 

[The_Auto_Tech]

I actually do intend to buy a shed - in fact all of my various **** (lawn mower, shovels, weed eater, etc) are all sitting outside on the back porch until I make the purchase. However those things typically aren't that secure - I don't mind if my $50 pressure washer getting stolen, but would have tough time racing if a motorcycle gets stolen.

Side note: must be less than 10 X 10 and 8 feet tall - which means it will likely be a 7 X 7. Looking for recommendations.

The 4Runner is right against the garage door - in fact my wife actually rubbed it the other day. The Escape has a little more room, but Google says that the Maxima is the same length as the 4Runner.

Now there is a little it of room with the Z - what did you have in mind? Only thing to keep in mind is that if a storm hits I need to be able to toss it outside quickly - need to be able to pull the Z forward so that I can get into the storm shelter.

Sheds do come in some odd sizes but yea, I believe 7x7 is gonna be your closest bet there. That's what size mine is, and it fits all my yard equipment, bikes, scooters, etc. My idea is to keep everything out the garage that doesn't belong in there. So, my garage only houses automotive equipment, various tools, etc. Anything you can keep off the floor is best.

 

[Greenlawnracing]

Sheds do come in some odd sizes but yea, I believe 7x7 is gonna be your closest bet there. That's what size mine is, and it fits all my yard equipment, bikes, scooters, etc. My idea is to keep everything out the garage that doesn't belong in there. So, my garage only houses automotive equipment, various tools, etc. Anything you can keep off the floor is best.

I can only put so much in there, and unfortunately things like bicycles and motorcycles need to go in the garage - but its probably far from a bad idea to add some security. (although any of you are welcome to my weedeater)

Best place to buy a Rubbermaid type shed?

 

[hangfirew8]

https://www.storeyourboard.com/steady-rack-vertical-bike.html

Think I'm following you - just not sure exactly where to put them yet. I just measured, and they won't fit over the Z, but could potentially go in front of them - just couldn't open the door to the hot water heater which probably is an unlikely event.

Something like that. I have a the Rubbermaid Fastrack, which is getting harder to find nowadays:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009J5NSQ/?tag=atomicindus08-20

If that doesn't work for you, there's hanging it from the ceiling, usually upside down. Sometimes you can work them in alongside the garage door (unless they hang too low and block people). Sometimes nothing works. Then get a shed.

 

[cvairwerks]

Try backing the 4runner in, same slot but closer to the wall. Gives you way more door room. Hang the bikes from the ceiling, but flat rather than vertical. That uses some of the space up high without blocking access to anything else.

 

[The_Auto_Tech]

I can only put so much in there, and unfortunately things like bicycles and motorcycles need to go in the garage - but its probably far from a bad idea to add some security. (although any of you are welcome to my weedeater)

Best place to buy a Rubbermaid type shed?

I got my 7x7 vinyl shed for like 400 bucks at Menards on sale. Fairly sure it was the Keter brand, and I'm very happy with it. I didn't want a wood or metal one because I wanted to be able to just power wash the thing off and never worry about it going bad. I just checked their website again and it doesn't look like there's any sales on them right now though. Usually a good vinyl 7x7 is like 600 bones.

 

[gahrajmahal]

Hi Greenlawn. My suggestion involves the industrial racking sold by Menards as you can buy the end sections and cross bars separately. My two car has a divider so there are two separate garage doors. Between the cars we have a section with 24" wide end sections. I have the first cross bars starting around 40 inches from the floor. I have my table saw and portable generator on wheels and just roll them under it. You could possibly use the same idea and store the motorcycles under the first shelf.

Over on the far wall get your two top boxes off the floor using the same method. Choose the 18" wide end sections and maybe use two seperate sections. Storage of heavy items put on wheels again. Areas where the car doors open leave empty and also be sure to pad all the uprights and cross bars. I use baby corner cushions and glue them on with construction adhesive.

Over at my sons house built in 1920 he uses his under the house single garage with the same technique. He has the 24" wide end sections and the widest cross bars, I think around 9 feet wide. The first bar starts around 5 feet off the floor. The nose of his cars (one is a CRV) goes under there. His storage is in uniform sized plastic boxes all labeled with what is inside. He keeps his bikes and all the kids toys on the enclosed back porch. Bikes on a wall rack, and toys in two giant plastic outdoor deck boxes. You get used to the somewhat cluttered look of it as there are tables and chairs too to sit back there and the kids can play on the porch.

All of the Menards rack systems are bolted to either the walls or the ceiling as in the between the bays example. Don't use them self standing. Use carriage bolts upside down as leveling feet for uneven concrete floors.

Hire out your lawn cutting so no more lawn mower & trimmer and more time for racing. Join a club and keep the race bikes over at the clubhouse. Your HOA does not want to hear your bikes being started up any way. (sorry neighbors while I was growing up!)

Rent a storage unit. Right now our MGB is in a 10 x 15 for $95 per month during the winter so the wifey can park in the garage.

Working in my garage requires moving stuff out temporarily, but since most of the stuff is on wheels, it doesn't take too much time. In the summer I work in the driveway under the shade of the overhead deck.

 

[Scott H in Wheaton]

Hire out your lawn cutting so no more lawn mower & trimmer and more time for racing.

Rent a storage unit. Right now our MGB is in a 10 x 15 for $95 per month during the winter so the wifey can park in the garage.

I am moving into a 2 car garage. One of my "must-haves" for the new house was a three car garage, but we compromised because of excellent location, great price, good like-new condition, and only 1 mile from the grandkids. As part of the compromise I get a 10x20 storage unit only a half mile from the house. I park the 66 Mustang there and store the necessary but rarely used items, like extension ladder, welder, etc. Only $110 per month.

For the lawn, I switched to 40v electric push mower. I can do the whole yard on 1 battery, there is no gas or oil to store, and the mower stands vertically in the garage.

 

[ItsNemo]

Park one-two vehicle(s) in the driveway...problem solved. The Z is the only car that I'd really care to keep inside all the time.

 

[Greenlawnracing]

Try backing the 4runner in, same slot but closer to the wall. Gives you way more door room. Hang the bikes from the ceiling, but flat rather than vertical. That uses some of the space up high without blocking access to anything else.

Do you mean hang them on their sides?

Hi Greenlawn. My suggestion involves the industrial racking sold by Menards as you can buy the end sections and cross bars separately. My two car has a divider so there are two separate garage doors. Between the cars we have a section with 24" wide end sections. I have the first cross bars starting around 40 inches from the floor. I have my table saw and portable generator on wheels and just roll them under it. You could possibly use the same idea and store the motorcycles under the first shelf.

Over on the far wall get your two top boxes off the floor using the same method. Choose the 18" wide end sections and maybe use two seperate sections. Storage of heavy items put on wheels again. Areas where the car doors open leave empty and also be sure to pad all the uprights and cross bars. I use baby corner cushions and glue them on with construction adhesive.

Over at my sons house built in 1920 he uses his under the house single garage with the same technique. He has the 24" wide end sections and the widest cross bars, I think around 9 feet wide. The first bar starts around 5 feet off the floor. The nose of his cars (one is a CRV) goes under there. His storage is in uniform sized plastic boxes all labeled with what is inside. He keeps his bikes and all the kids toys on the enclosed back porch. Bikes on a wall rack, and toys in two giant plastic outdoor deck boxes. You get used to the somewhat cluttered look of it as there are tables and chairs too to sit back there and the kids can play on the porch.

All of the Menards rack systems are bolted to either the walls or the ceiling as in the between the bays example. Don't use them self standing. Use carriage bolts upside down as leveling feet for uneven concrete floors.

Hire out your lawn cutting so no more lawn mower & trimmer and more time for racing. Join a club and keep the race bikes over at the clubhouse. Your HOA does not want to hear your bikes being started up any way. (sorry neighbors while I was growing up!)

Rent a storage unit. Right now our MGB is in a 10 x 15 for $95 per month during the winter so the wifey can park in the garage.

Working in my garage requires moving stuff out temporarily, but since most of the stuff is on wheels, it doesn't take too much time. In the summer I work in the driveway under the shade of the overhead deck.

VERY interesting. Do you have any pictures?

 

[cvairwerks]

Do you mean hang them on their sides?

Yep, will take hanging them by three points instead of one or two.

 

[gahrajmahal]

Here are a few snaps of the gahraj. I don't have any of my son's setup. You don't pay attention of how messy your space is until you take a photo and have a look. No excuses, I am in between three projects right now and just spent 5 hours working in there yesterday.



The far wall, narrow. My suggestion for the OP to place his tool boxes on a similar setup. In my photo the space under the visible bottom shelf is open. 6 Jack stands on wheeled dolly, and two plastic bins on dolly's.



The rack between the cars. 24" deep, table saw, portable generator, and floor jack underneath. It is attached to the ceiling for stability. Note wide drawer on left under lower shelf contains most of my boxed fasteners,bolts, screws etc. It is a kitchen drawer from IKEA. Comes with heavy duty drawer guides, back and bottom around $20. Apply your own drawer front.

The remaining three show the lawn tool racks. Idea stolen from defunct garden store. The nice thing about them being close to the open door is you aren't carrying them past the car and scratching the paint. They hold lots of weight as the sledge, axe one show. Occasionally we have tried to organize them a certain way, but they always end up being placed back wherever there is room. A bit messy, but still works well. I need to put several sturdy hooks between the handles for random stuff.

 

[Greenlawnracing]

I'm sure you have all lost sleep wondering how I'm progressing.

I'm not.

I did get two of these today:

https://www.menards.com/main/storag...nate-laundry-wall-cabinet/p-1444451717510.htm

Nice buy at $79 on sale.

Have a buddy coming to take a look and recommend the best place to install them. I'm assuming the front of the garage, but am open to suggestions.

 

[Greenlawnracing]

Update - sorry to keep all of you on edge.

Have a buddy who is going to let me store my motorcycles and scooter in his shop, which clears up quite a bit of room. Technically I have everything in the garage now, but it will be very helpful.

Got the cabinets up and mounted shelves above them - just didn't trust them to take the extra weight and store items on top of them. Am going to add a third set and add two more shelves.

Found a decent place to hang the bike I use most where it is easy to access.

Still have plenty of wall space and am open to suggestions. Also feel like I'm wasting space between the Z and the 4Runner, but don't know how I'd use it as my wife needs to be able to get the car seat in on the passenger side.

Submitted a request to get a wooden shed as opposed to a Rubbermaid to the HOA. Think I can do quite a bit more with it, and possibly get a small work bench.

Keep the ideas coming!