Adding storage under a garage deck?

[RichTJ99]

Hi,

So in my last house, I had a deck. I ended up digging out under it, then using lattice panel to make a sort of shed under the deck. It was really parking for my 5x10 utility trailer, kids toys in the winter, my ladder, etc. Since I moved I dont have a good shot of the opening, but you will get the idea:

I am trying to figure out how I can make this something that opens & closes, I am picturing it with hinges that can open & close. I am unsure on what to do about having some sort of way out of the 'shed'. Any advice would be great on using the existing space.


OLD HOUSE

So my new place has a deck, I put that wavy plastic stuff they use on kennels on the top part to make it dryer (but not exactly dry).

The ladder is a 26' extension, so that side is 12 feet +- from the door to the side, probably another 10 on the other side of the door.

I was thinking of using lattice and some sort of plastic this time to make it much dryer. I also am thinking of putting some sort of hinges on it so I could get decent usage out of it.

I think digging it out a little to make it level, put some crushed stone, maybe a bluestone walk to the door, etc.

I am just not sure how to do it since the deck opening is about 8-10 feet off the ground.

The last picture is an attempt to make it related to garages (see those are the photos of the garages).

 

[Lippyp]

I'd say add some guttering at the bottom end of that roof sheet to direct the water out from under the dack and then if you want to enclose it then just frame it in between each of the posts, add that corrugated plastic sheet to the inside and then lattice on the outside to prettify it!

 

[Jimi]

This is the storage area under my deck. (Sorry for the small pic. I'll post bigger better ones when I get home later.)

The garage door goes to small area about 14'x12'. There is a walk through door on the other side. He also did lattice all around the deck with another access door you can see. Great use of space and very functional.

 

[RichTJ99]

Thanks, please post some more photo when you have a chance. I am interested to see how you did it.

 

[Jimi]

Here you go Rich. Hope these can give you some inspiration.

 

[Too_Many_Tools]

I am surprised that there hasn't been more of a response to your OP.

Most of us have decks...all of us have need for more storage space.

I look forward to what advice AND PICTURES others have to offer.

 

[Fskof]

Here you go Rich. Hope these can give you some inspiration.

What a great idea. That is the best solution I have seen. Great place to store "junk" that you need.
How did you seal the ceiling to prevent water in the storage area after it rains or snows?

 

[Jimi]

How did you seal the ceiling to prevent water in the storage area after it rains or snows?

I did nothing. Since there is a roof over top of the storage area, it keeps out probably 99% of rain and pretty much all snow. Nothing is stored that can't stand a little moisture anyway. (Mower, pool supplies, generator, etc.) It's a nice area to have the generator too since it's locked. All exhaust creeps through the cracks and I don't worry about it at all disappearing.

 

[Too_Many_Tools]

I did nothing. Since there is a roof over top of the storage area, it keeps out probably 99% of rain and pretty much all snow. Nothing is stored that can't stand a little moisture anyway. (Mower, pool supplies, generator, etc.) It's a nice area to have the generator too since it's locked. All exhaust creeps through the cracks and I don't worry about it at all disappearing.

Better watch out for CO poisoning.

Next time you run that generator, have a CO detector that shows PPM of CO and you might be surprised what is leaking back into the house.

 

[RichTJ99]

How big is the inside? I didnt realize that the garage door is for the 'shed'. That is sweet, more photos & cowbell please!

 

[Jimi]

have a CO detector that shows PPM of CO

I have a CO detector inside the basement door about 10' away. Great point though. Most people do not think that their generators are that dangerous. I think CO detectors should be bundled with each generator sold in my opinion.

How big is the inside?

It's about 14'x12'. But it's shaped a little odd too. Here's a couple of shots inside. As you'll see, "Great place to store junk" as Fskof stated too.

 

[RichTJ99]

I realized I never showed a finished product. Most of the doors either open as double doors, or single doors. A little Belgium block on the bottom, a gutter on the top (not shown).

 

[Burmashave]

Rich, is that a drag star on your wheelbarrow?

 

[RichTJ99]

I am going to say its not since I dont know what a drag star is

 

[Burmashave]

One of these:

 

[Burmashave]

Never mind, I found a pic of your wheelbarrow on Google and see its the wheel that comes on it. Apparently I am obsessed with customizing mundane household tools. I need counseling.