Barry's 18x20 Garage
- Thread starter q20v
- Start date
Hey guys,
Just a quick update for tonight... I'm working on a 10 foot shelf above the main bench. I should be finished on the weekend along with a few ideas I have in mind for the wall underneath. I think it will look good and be functional!
The height from the ceiling is 17", enough to fit those blue rubber-maid storage containers, and there's about 1" from the top of those books to the underside of the shelf (I didn't notice this until after I had 4-5 screws in!). It will be 17.25" deep (I had a scrap 3/4" piece of ply that size) and 10' long.
I was putting it up alone so I had to be creative in how I held it up. I thought this idea was kind of clever, I screwed a small section of 2x4 to the wall, then using one screw, fastened another small 2x4 on top (I realize it looks like there are 2 screws there, it's just an old piece of wood that has 2 holes in it). Once I got the shelf in place I rotated the 2x4 to hold it in place.
I still have to add bracing, the 3/4" top, trim and maybe paint.
I'll post some completed pictures on the weekend.
Just a quick update for tonight... I'm working on a 10 foot shelf above the main bench. I should be finished on the weekend along with a few ideas I have in mind for the wall underneath. I think it will look good and be functional!
The height from the ceiling is 17", enough to fit those blue rubber-maid storage containers, and there's about 1" from the top of those books to the underside of the shelf (I didn't notice this until after I had 4-5 screws in!). It will be 17.25" deep (I had a scrap 3/4" piece of ply that size) and 10' long.
I was putting it up alone so I had to be creative in how I held it up. I thought this idea was kind of clever, I screwed a small section of 2x4 to the wall, then using one screw, fastened another small 2x4 on top (I realize it looks like there are 2 screws there, it's just an old piece of wood that has 2 holes in it). Once I got the shelf in place I rotated the 2x4 to hold it in place.
I still have to add bracing, the 3/4" top, trim and maybe paint.
I'll post some completed pictures on the weekend.
dykstra
Well-known member
Looking good!
Thanks dykstra!
I worked on the shelf again today. Not quite finished but I'm very close.
Here's a picture of how I fastened the bracing. I started the screws into the brace, then held the brace in place with a clamp on one of the screws. Nice and tight and was my third hand!
I originally finished the shelf with three braces, then took the middle one off to work on the background and realized I could hang in the middle and the shelf barely budged. So I left if off.
The reason I put a sheet of plywood there is because a small portion of that wall is still drywall, and I'll be hanging power/hand tools up there, kind of like pegboard, but using long screws instead. I also might build a shelf of the right hand side, about 2.5' wide.
I'm also trying to decide if I want to paint it white or not. Another option is a urethane coating like the bench tops. Any suggestions?? Leave it natural?
Oh and I'll install a couple 2' fluorescent lights under that shelf, recessed in the 2x4s.
I worked on the shelf again today. Not quite finished but I'm very close.
Here's a picture of how I fastened the bracing. I started the screws into the brace, then held the brace in place with a clamp on one of the screws. Nice and tight and was my third hand!
I originally finished the shelf with three braces, then took the middle one off to work on the background and realized I could hang in the middle and the shelf barely budged. So I left if off.
The reason I put a sheet of plywood there is because a small portion of that wall is still drywall, and I'll be hanging power/hand tools up there, kind of like pegboard, but using long screws instead. I also might build a shelf of the right hand side, about 2.5' wide.
I'm also trying to decide if I want to paint it white or not. Another option is a urethane coating like the bench tops. Any suggestions?? Leave it natural?
Oh and I'll install a couple 2' fluorescent lights under that shelf, recessed in the 2x4s.
SpeedCoach
Well-known member
some under-cabinet lights on that shelf would give you some decent task lighting on your bench. Just a thought. I've enjoyed following this thread.
ambenz
Well-known member
I just went through the whole thread and I must say you are using your space to it full potential!
Comming along nicely!
Comming along nicely!
ambenz
Well-known member
Just start another account using another name and a different e-mail!
I use ImageShack, which free and has no bandwidth limits.
My photobucket account came back to life on the 5th, and I added a couple more pictures.
I added lights under the shelf above the main bench. I also added some fastener bins. I need to grab a few more to complete the square but it's a start.
A wheel bearing on the Audi is almost completely pooched so this purchase was justified in order to "save" me money in the future
It's a 30 ton Princess Auto special for $180!
I added lights under the shelf above the main bench. I also added some fastener bins. I need to grab a few more to complete the square but it's a start.
A wheel bearing on the Audi is almost completely pooched so this purchase was justified in order to "save" me money in the future
It's a 30 ton Princess Auto special for $180!
Hey guys,
Not a big update but I have made a couple changes in the garage lately.
I built a shelf for car wash supplies out of sheets of 3/4" pine:
Also hung a few weapons of mass destruction and wrenches on the wall behind the bench. VERY handy having the wrenches at arms reach!
Not a big update but I have made a couple changes in the garage lately.
I built a shelf for car wash supplies out of sheets of 3/4" pine:
Also hung a few weapons of mass destruction and wrenches on the wall behind the bench. VERY handy having the wrenches at arms reach!
Boosted1
Well-known member
Nice work on the bench and shelves. As others said, good use of space.
OBNXIOUS
Active member
looking good! Did you get out to any of the winter autocross events?
Thanks guys!
Unfortunately I did not make it out to any events. The engine stopped working in January and I haven't bothered to look into the problem yet. I've been taking the bus and borrowing cars when absolutely necessary. So far so good. The weather is getting better and the BMW is almost ready to go (I'm rebuilding the head) so I should have wheels again soon!
Unfortunately I did not make it out to any events. The engine stopped working in January and I haven't bothered to look into the problem yet. I've been taking the bus and borrowing cars when absolutely necessary. So far so good. The weather is getting better and the BMW is almost ready to go (I'm rebuilding the head) so I should have wheels again soon!
clutch93
Well-known member
I don't know how I missed your thread until now, but as others have said VERY nice home you have there. I'm a fan of townhomes when they're done right and your's looks to be done exceptionally!
The garage looks great! Lot's of good storage ideas and work spaces, I really like how you made a cut out in the bench for the grinder. I may have to steal that idea from you for mine. Very good progress so far, please keep the pictures coming!
BTW, I have the same polk sub your running and absolutely love it! How does your's sound in the garage?
The garage looks great! Lot's of good storage ideas and work spaces, I really like how you made a cut out in the bench for the grinder. I may have to steal that idea from you for mine. Very good progress so far, please keep the pictures coming!
BTW, I have the same polk sub your running and absolutely love it! How does your's sound in the garage?
Thanks a lot clutch! It's been slow going but progress is being made. Not a lot left to do actually, lights at some point, some wall art, maybe some shelving on the other side... not sure yet. I'll keep the pictures rolling, especially with spring around the corner and a bunch of new projects starting up!
I like the sub! The only thing, and this may be related to settings or something else, but I find the bass sounds great within a 10ft radius from the sub, outside of that and it's barely audible. Don't get me wrong, I love the stereo and feel sorry for the neighbors!! Might be my old receiver, not sure... Anyway, it's conspicuously installed just above my main work bench so 95% of the time my body is vibrating
I like the sub! The only thing, and this may be related to settings or something else, but I find the bass sounds great within a 10ft radius from the sub, outside of that and it's barely audible. Don't get me wrong, I love the stereo and feel sorry for the neighbors!! Might be my old receiver, not sure... Anyway, it's conspicuously installed just above my main work bench so 95% of the time my body is vibrating
clutch93
Well-known member
I understand the slow moving progress, reason for mine is mostly laziness though. Haven't worked in my garage for a couple weeks. I have been buying more wall art and such, but i really need to get back out there.
As far as the sub goes, it's probably because of it's location and because it's in such a large open space. you would probably get a lot more sound from it if it was on the floor, i know mine packs a pretty powerful punch. it really shines down in the low frequencies. I actually run two subwoofers, both are 10" but my other one is from yamaha and it has more thump to it rather than the super deep tone of the polk. It works out great for me, really gives more life to the explosions and such, you hear it AND feel it. Some subwoofers can't do both so it's nice having both to compliment each other. People say having two subs is overkill in my living room though, so it would definately be overkill for a garage.
Anyway, looking forward to more updates and seeing the wall art go up!
As far as the sub goes, it's probably because of it's location and because it's in such a large open space. you would probably get a lot more sound from it if it was on the floor, i know mine packs a pretty powerful punch. it really shines down in the low frequencies. I actually run two subwoofers, both are 10" but my other one is from yamaha and it has more thump to it rather than the super deep tone of the polk. It works out great for me, really gives more life to the explosions and such, you hear it AND feel it. Some subwoofers can't do both so it's nice having both to compliment each other. People say having two subs is overkill in my living room though, so it would definately be overkill for a garage.
Anyway, looking forward to more updates and seeing the wall art go up!
Killa-B
Member
Very Impressive use of space! Makes me think my "tiny" 3 car garage could actually be something! Great wood working skills as well! 
Keep
Well-known member
The garage looks great. I have a couple questions for you.
Is that a gas line running along the wall? If so I would be trying to find a way to protect it. That thing would scare the **** out of me if I was welding or using my torches anywhere near it.
Next is your water line, do you have a shutoff inside the house? Pretty sure you do, but thought I would ask. If not, I would consider one, even with it being on the back wall I have found ice on mine. In an insulated garage. When you get a week of -30 it does not matter where the water line is in the garage it will ice up.
I am looking at doing something similar in my garage as I hate trying to reach behind the compressor to turn the water on, then drag the hose through the garage! I think I will "borrow" your idea there.
You have done a great job with a smaller "2 car" garage. Mine is not much bigger at 19x22, I am sure whoever deemed these a 2 car garage drove a prius.
Is that a gas line running along the wall? If so I would be trying to find a way to protect it. That thing would scare the **** out of me if I was welding or using my torches anywhere near it.
Next is your water line, do you have a shutoff inside the house? Pretty sure you do, but thought I would ask. If not, I would consider one, even with it being on the back wall I have found ice on mine. In an insulated garage. When you get a week of -30 it does not matter where the water line is in the garage it will ice up.
I am looking at doing something similar in my garage as I hate trying to reach behind the compressor to turn the water on, then drag the hose through the garage! I think I will "borrow" your idea there.
You have done a great job with a smaller "2 car" garage. Mine is not much bigger at 19x22, I am sure whoever deemed these a 2 car garage drove a prius.
MSRTom
Well-known member
I've got to thank Astovall for bumping this one. I purchased a home with an 18 X 20 back in May and I've been looking for similar spaces.
I remember seeing this thread months ago, but couldn't find it again. Kind of funny.. I've got two 8' wide doors but before I moved in, I started thinking about replacing it with one large door. Thanks to this thread, I can more easily visualize the benefits of a single door.
TrooperJoe73
Member
Great job on your place! I liked your shelf work, it's giving me ideas for my new place.
Hey guys,
I haven't really been on GJ in several months and didn't realize people had posted on this thread! Thanks for the compliments, I'll try and address some of the questions even though the posters might not see them. I also have some updates...
Racedeck - 1.5 years after installation
Climate varies from 30*C to -30*Ccanada
In that time an engine/interior has been ripped out of a Pontiac Bonneville, an old Audi has been completely dismantled, clutch on the BMW, cylinder head rebuild on the same car, complete suspension rebuild on my new 1990 Audi (from coil-over assemblies to both subframes), I just removed the transmission from this car this weekend, numerous woodworking projects, welding, grinding... it's been used.
The tiles have held up pretty good, they still clean up alright. Welding is not good for it, obviously. I find this annoying when doing body or exhaust work. Grime is also a pain to clean from the raised diamonds. Fluid makes its way under the tiles, so I now make sure to clean up spills immediately. The morning sun (shines into the front of the garage) lifts the tiles 8-10 inches. I still get a lot of compliments on the floor, and I do really enjoy the look.
If I were to do it again, I'd polish and stain the concrete.
Updates: I've added a few little personal touches here and there. Here are some pictures:
Main bench side:
Small bench side, I put in a little beer fridge:
Suspension overhaul on my brother's car:
Hang on, more to come, my brother needs to use this computer.....
I haven't really been on GJ in several months and didn't realize people had posted on this thread! Thanks for the compliments, I'll try and address some of the questions even though the posters might not see them. I also have some updates...
Racedeck - 1.5 years after installation
Climate varies from 30*C to -30*C
canadaIn that time an engine/interior has been ripped out of a Pontiac Bonneville, an old Audi has been completely dismantled, clutch on the BMW, cylinder head rebuild on the same car, complete suspension rebuild on my new 1990 Audi (from coil-over assemblies to both subframes), I just removed the transmission from this car this weekend, numerous woodworking projects, welding, grinding... it's been used.
The tiles have held up pretty good, they still clean up alright. Welding is not good for it, obviously. I find this annoying when doing body or exhaust work. Grime is also a pain to clean from the raised diamonds. Fluid makes its way under the tiles, so I now make sure to clean up spills immediately. The morning sun (shines into the front of the garage) lifts the tiles 8-10 inches. I still get a lot of compliments on the floor, and I do really enjoy the look.
If I were to do it again, I'd polish and stain the concrete.
Updates: I've added a few little personal touches here and there. Here are some pictures:
Main bench side:
Small bench side, I put in a little beer fridge:
Suspension overhaul on my brother's car:
Hang on, more to come, my brother needs to use this computer.....
Car wash at night:
Suspension overhaul on the new Audi:
Old Audi disassembly:
Right before being hauled off for scrap:
The clutch on the new Audi started feeling weird, and I was getting fed up with painstakingly jacking up the car, so I built a set of ramps to help get the car up easier:
The ramps are built out of 2x12s for the top surfaces, and 2x8s on the sides. They are approximately 9.** high, and they are spaced to accommodate the wheelbase of my Audi (101") and BMW (110"). I've made some wheel chocks and will be painting them soon... well, I guess as soon as I finish the clutch!
More to come!
Suspension overhaul on the new Audi:
Old Audi disassembly:
Right before being hauled off for scrap:
The clutch on the new Audi started feeling weird, and I was getting fed up with painstakingly jacking up the car, so I built a set of ramps to help get the car up easier:
The ramps are built out of 2x12s for the top surfaces, and 2x8s on the sides. They are approximately 9.** high, and they are spaced to accommodate the wheelbase of my Audi (101") and BMW (110"). I've made some wheel chocks and will be painting them soon... well, I guess as soon as I finish the clutch!
More to come!
yamaharacing21
Well-known member
awesome idea on the ramps!! defintley going to be stealing the concept! garage looks great. do you have any pictures of your shop in your basement?
Ripcurl
Well-known member
Love these two pics:
silverdub
Active member
wow awesome! love the ramps too, great idea
03TorchedMach1
Well-known member
- Joined
- Aug 7, 2007
- Messages
- 55
Garage looks great. One question for you....how is the RaceDeck holding up with jacks and jack stands being tossed around on the floor? Can you see scratches and such on the tiles?
QUOTE:
The ramps are built out of 2x12s for the top surfaces, and 2x8s on the sides. They are approximately 9.** high, and they are spaced to accommodate the wheelbase of my Audi (101") and BMW (110"). I've made some wheel chocks and will be painting them soon... well, I guess as soon as I finish the clutch!
Nice ideas you got there.
In my 2 cars garage, there is a slope towards center for a drain. So for the width of my car, from left to right wheel, there is a 3 1/2" slope from wheel to wheel (and 4" slope looking at mid-way thru the car length). What are the suggestion to build those ramps. Make one 4" higher and have car leveled, or leave them equal height and have car inclined. I want this set-up to be safe with me under !!! Or is-it just to unsafe to use such thing. I know my house previous owner has built a A.C. Cobra kit-car in the garage, he must have used something to raise the car.
Also the center removable ramp portion is overlapping but has no retaining media to keep the set-up locked during the car rolling over. Did youi see this as sliding a bit during car rool-on? I thought 2 small dowel pin (fix in the long ramp and with slight clearance in the two wheels support portion) could have help lock everything together. Just a thought.
Also you mentionned wheel chock. What is that and any picture of it?
Thanks very much.
The ramps are built out of 2x12s for the top surfaces, and 2x8s on the sides. They are approximately 9.** high, and they are spaced to accommodate the wheelbase of my Audi (101") and BMW (110"). I've made some wheel chocks and will be painting them soon... well, I guess as soon as I finish the clutch!
Nice ideas you got there.
In my 2 cars garage, there is a slope towards center for a drain. So for the width of my car, from left to right wheel, there is a 3 1/2" slope from wheel to wheel (and 4" slope looking at mid-way thru the car length). What are the suggestion to build those ramps. Make one 4" higher and have car leveled, or leave them equal height and have car inclined. I want this set-up to be safe with me under !!! Or is-it just to unsafe to use such thing. I know my house previous owner has built a A.C. Cobra kit-car in the garage, he must have used something to raise the car.
Also the center removable ramp portion is overlapping but has no retaining media to keep the set-up locked during the car rolling over. Did youi see this as sliding a bit during car rool-on? I thought 2 small dowel pin (fix in the long ramp and with slight clearance in the two wheels support portion) could have help lock everything together. Just a thought.
Also you mentionned wheel chock. What is that and any picture of it?
Thanks very much.
Last edited:
Joeydabomb
Well-known member
- Joined
- Mar 15, 2011
- Messages
- 58
Looks great, is your garage 20' wide and 18' deep. Also are you only parking 1 car in there?
The floor has taken a bit of a beating over the past couple years. If I were to replace any tile with a new one it would stand out like a sore thumb. I'll try and grab some detail pictures of some of the carnage.
gtcs1:
Obviously building ramps like this, or any 'homemade auto lift' of any sort, carries a lot of risk. If you don't feel comfortable or are not sure about certain aspects, seek the opinion of a professional. My set-up was very straight forward and I am confident in my woodworking ablilities to feel safe under the car. I've only used them once since I built them but they will be inspected before each use. Sorry if I can't comment on your design/garage slope since I don't want to lead you in the wrong direction, especially since I don't have the complete picture.
My center section interlocks to help keep the assembly together. There are no dowels or the like, however I may add something to that effect in the future. There were no issues the first time I used the ramps.
I screwed a piece of wood behind the rear wheel to prevent the car from rolling, that's what I meant by wheel chock. I think I took a picture of it... I'll check when I get home.
The actual size is more like 19x19 (plus/minus a few inches). I can easily park 2 cars in there. Flip back a few pages, I think I posted a picture with 2 cars.
CustomCareDetailing
Active member
I know this is a little late, but I just read through the entire thread and am inspired. I only wish I would have came across this sonner. I'm in the process of finishing a 19x20 and am already regretting some of the things I did/didn't do before throwing up the drywall, namely not wiring enough outlets and wiring the outlets I did have way too low and not going in and adding more overhead lights. This is my first time really having a garage to work in so I'll just chock up my mistakes to growing pain. I definitely plan on "borrowing" many of your ideas, especially the design of the main work bench. Anyways, great work!!!
Great job on the garage!
I'm looking at your main bench and wondering what your thoughts were on recessing the grinder as opposed to just mounting it at the front edge? Not trying to say there's anything wrong with it, just wondering if I'm missing some obvious advantage.
55cadillacking
Well-known member
Great thread. I'm quite impressed with the insulation and electrical work you took on yourself. I was happy that our new home came with a fully insulated and drywalled garage. I don't know if I would have tackled it on my own, like you did. Much props.
dubber
Well-known member
Wow, thanks to the last bump this is now on my radar. Can't believe i hadn't seen this awesome local build. Has your garage finished progressing?
55cadillacking
Well-known member
I stumbled across this project in the Garage Index. That's a useful search tool. I hope the OP is still checking the forum because I'd love an update.