Chick Needs Some Help!

[2DoubleDs]

Hi guys. I am brand spanking new here and I'm really looking for some help/input.

My husband is deployed to Iraq w/ the Marine Corps right now, and while he is gone I want to finish his garage for him.

Some history....
When we bought this house, the garage had never been finished. I'll be honest, it looks like @#!%. He has always hated it. He spends a lot of time out there though. I run a daycare out of our home and it has over run every free space we have. In his garage he likes to escape to turn wrenches, mess with all his military gear, watch tv and play on his laptop.

He wants to finish it, but we both know now that he will NEVER have the time. So, I have decided to get it done as a surprise. My dad lives across the street and he is going to be doing most of the heavy work. I need some help on what guys would love to have in their garage. He has really nice tools (Dewalt, Craftsman, etc.) that he picked put before he left, so that's all taken care of. Here are some pics of what the garage looked like yesterday....

What I'd like to do so far is obviously finish the walls where the studs are showing, finish the ceiling and put a pull down door with stairs, epoxy the floor, add a sink, add a small air conditioner for when he's in there watching tv and put some decent lighting in there. He'll need some sort of shelves or cabinets and also a work bench. And maybe something cool like a Murphy bed-style poker table or something so he could have his boys over. I don't know.

I'd also like to paint it something other than white. But..is that gay? Would he hate that? He loves the Marines and he loves Corvettes. So I'd like to decorate it with some cool stuff like that. He actually sold his dream C5 Corvette Z06 to get me an SUV when I got pregnant last year. So I feel the LEAST I can do is give him a man's garage.

Can you guys help???

 

[DynoDave]

What a wonderful surprise that will be! Just getting the walls and ceiling insulated, drywalled, and painted will make a BIG difference. If you thumb through the posts of peoples shops here, you'll find all kinds of color schemes. Maybe a slightly off white, with black, red and golds stripes on the wall leading to the Marine Corp Seal in the center at the back?

And some nice Corvette posters for decoration. Looks like you have lots of storage needs, so finding lots of cabinets, so things are put away out of site, makes a big difference too. You don't have to break the bank on cabinets...old kitchen cabinets from an area remodel can be painted/refinished to work quite well. You might also want to consider building a closet/wall around the water heater, so it's out of site as well. Some flush mounted lighting would be nice once the ceiling is enclosed. I really like the Murphy bed style poker table idea. Just a few thoughts...good luck with this project, and stop back to let us know how it's going.

 

[wythors]

I really don't have much constructive to say, except that you are (next to mine) the best wife EVER.

 

[Danglerb]

I'd say keep it light on decoration, put insulation in the walls, make sure there are plenty of electrical outlets etc. before putting up sheet rock. Maybe do a couple things, "accents", but leave plenty of space for him to put his mark on it as well.

http://www.usawallpaper.com/corvettes.html
http://www.usawallpaper.com/military1.html

 

[bluesman2a]

First and foremost, let me say: Thanks to both you and your husband for your service to our country, him on deployment, and you keeping things going here at home. The LEAST we can do is help out.

Let me see if I can help out with some suggestions and answer your questions:

1) Lighting -- you can never have too much in a working garage. Personally, I went crazy with 4' T-8 fixtures. They are cheap and easy to put up. You will need your lighting plan before you finish the ceilings/walls.

2) Electrical -- While you're at it, you can NEVER have too much power in a shop. Personally I think anything less than 4 outlets (2 gang box) every 3 to 4 feet in work areas is a waste. Make SURE they are not all on the same breaker, that's a big pet peeve. Again, put it in before the wall finishing.

3) As previously mentioned, if you finish the walls, make sure you insullate first, especially if you are going to climate control the space. This should also include some insullation for the garage door if it isn't already.

4) Finish material -- drywall or OSB wood seem to be the big choices, depending on your budget. OSB is cheaper easier to work, and allows to easily screw things to the wall. Drywall will give a better finished look and is fire retardant.

5) Paint -- color schemes aren't at all gay, but remember it's a WORK space. Keep the colors LIGHT, anything that ***** in light won't work well. Keep the colors to something that will hide dirt. I like dark tans and lighter grays. If you can, get a paint that is washable like the Sherwin Williams Duration products. Keep the same thing in mind when doing the floors.

6) STORAGE -- This looks to be your BIGGEST problem.

a) Get him a nice toolchest. Personally I like the stainless ones you can get at Sam's/costco. Decent quality roller-bearing drawers and they won't break the bank.

b) Shelves/cabinets. Again, personally there is nothing in my shop that isn't on wheels. It makes the space much more usable, even if it's cluttered. For our garage we did a combo of rolling bakers racks, rolling bin-racks (again, both from Sams), and Gladiator rolling lockers. There are a lot of options out there, but the key should be to get everything OFF the floor. This will also be a HUGE help for when you have to pull everything out to do the floors/walls.

c) Purge -- if you are going to take the time to go through all this, also go through all the STUFF that has accumulated in the garage. Purge anything that's no longer relevant. Donate, sell, or trash, be ruthless to get the space clean, but don't throw out things you know he will miss. You would be amazed how much space a good purge can generate.

Hope that helps, and check back here with updates, I'm sure we'd like to see your progress!!!

 

[Beegs]

"2DoubleDs" lol

 

[GDA]

YOU deserve a big thanks for doing this for your husband. He WILL be thrilled when its all finished.

Now there have been many good suggestions but I will add a couple too:

1) KIS - keep it simple and very simplistic looking. If you look through many of the posts of others garages you will find that they design the storage so that the only visible items at the end of the day are the car, storage and decorations. It makes a very good statement for versatility of use and its inviting for others to come in to hang out, chill with a beer or help tackle a project because they aren't overwhelmed by the stuff that appears to be in the way.

2) Good suggestion above about finishing in the water heater and since you will have to frame that out consider building in some room for the compressor at a minimum. Depending on how you choose to do it, you could even get the fridge and freezer too from the right? tucked in there too. That way you would be left with only seeing the TV, cabinets and workbench once you are all done.

3) go to a art store and grab some grid paper and begin sketching out the layout to scale with several variations on how you think you would like to design the space. You will be amazed at how putting it on paper forces you to visualize where you would like something to be and at the same time allow you to FIT it in the space you have to work with.

4) Take a first pass on your plan and then circle back with this group. Everyone here would gladly help work out your questions/issues as we know how happy he will be with teh final result

G

 

[trovato]

Maybe you could put a shed in the back yard to store some of that "stuff". Then you can really turn that garage into something special.

 

[punkabilly136]

yeah i second the shed idea...i have one in our backyard where i store a bunch of bins and such along with the mower, its crazy how much space it actually frees up in your garage

 

[2DoubleDs]

Wow guys. Thank you all so much for all your great ideas. And thanks Danglerb for the wallpaper boarder links. Those were cool.

Most of the things on the floor will end up in the "attic" we will be building when we finish the ceiling in there. Here's where we've gotten with the ceiling so far...

(I guess I should add that the boards that were previously up there were just kind of strategically 'placed' and nailed down. Not in any kind of permanent fashion.)

We'll be finishing enclosing that all, insulating it, adding a pull down ladder, and then sheet rock (or drywall...whatever. YOU guys know what I mean) and also lighting. My dad also has some idea worked out that when the hatch gets opened for the pull down ladder, a light will automatically turn on up there. So we can find all our stuff. What mostly resides up there normally are seasonal decorations.

I like the idea about adding more outlets, so we'll be doing that. (thanks bluesman2a) Now, overhead lighting...I think some sort of can/recessed lighting would be nice looking. Is that a bad idea for a garage though? Should I just go with a bunch of shop lights?

(Oh, and I really like the stripes on the wall idea DynoDave. Very creative.)

 

[punkabilly136]

i don't think recessed lighting will put off enough light unless you use a BUNCH of them...i ran six- two slot flourescent bulb style lighting in my garage and could still use two more...you can never have enough light!!!

 

[wilbilt]

Most of the things on the floor will end up in the "attic" we will be building when we finish the ceiling in there.

That structure does not look like it was designed to support a floor. You might want to think about beefing it up if you plan to turn the attic into a storage area.

 

[have2goski]

on the lighting, I have always thought it is a good idea to wire the lights for "zone" lighting. meaning that there are multiple switches to control the lights not just an 'all on' or 'all off' option. It is good to control the lights for front to back, or 1/2 on at a time, etc. You just need to look at the space and where it makes sense to subdivide the lighting controls. And remember even if you divide it into 2,3 or 4 switches you can always flip them all on and everything is lit up.

 

[2DoubleDs]

That structure does not look like it was designed to support a floor. You might want to think about beefing it up if you plan to turn the attic into a storage area.

Oh yes, it is getting "beefed".

 

[2DoubleDs]

i don't think recessed lighting will put off enough light unless you use a BUNCH of them...i ran six- two slot flourescent bulb style lighting in my garage and could still use two more...you can never have enough light!!!

Okay...shop lights it will be then! Thanks.

 

[HOTFR8]

I really don't have much constructive to say, except that you are (next to mine) the best wife EVER.

I agree.

WOW Where do you find a lady like this ???

My full praise for what you are doing.

 

[2DoubleDs]

Okay, I need some help here. Everything is going fine construction wise so far, but I need to start making some decisions. Most everything I get will have to come from Home Depot, mainly because I have a pretty good amount of credit there and I really don't want to charge anything else up. So...

As far as cabinets/storage and a workbench goes, has anyone ever heard of or used HUSKY or Stanley? Are they good? And what about this workbench...

Husky Workbench​

I saw it in person and it looked pretty functional to me, but I'm not going to be the one hanging and banging stuff on it.

Also, so far epoxy is the way I have been leaning for the floor. BUT...has anyone ever used this stuff...

TRAFFICMASTER GARAGE TILE​

Thoughts??

 

[bluesman2a]

As far as cabinets/storage and a workbench goes, has anyone ever heard of or used HUSKY or Stanley? Are they good? And what about this workbench...

Husky Workbench​

I understand what you're saying, and I know this recommendation doesn't match your Home Depot preference, but:

A) I've seen that bench and was not greatly impressed.

B) for the same price if you have the option of going to a Sams Club they have a MUCH nicer set of workbench/tables. I know it may sound like I'm stuck on Sams, but for the price they have some REALLY beefy stuff that will survive well in a garage for many years.

 

[2DoubleDs]

Thanks for the advice on the workbench. I'm trying really hard not to get excited and just buy the first thing I see.

 

[1320stang]

That, or build a workbench to fit. 2x4's and plywood are cheap and you can configure it however your imagination allows. I'd also suggest a laundry tub sink next to the water heater. I recently put on in my garage and it's great for an initial clean before I go into the house. Also works great for other things that you wouldn't want to dirty up the kitchen sink area up for. I picked out a wall hung faucet that has hose bibb threads on the end of it, so I can hook it up to a hose and run hot water thru it if I want.

And I agree, that loft is SCARY!!!!

 

[InPrimer]

as far as lights the 4' are way cheaper to replace(bulbs) I know that it's not often but the 8' will cost way more. As far as the floor a good epoxy paint is cheaper and just as good IMO I have it in my garage, also that plastic type flooring IMO is not practical if a lot of welding fab goes on. Also checck to see if HD still gives a 10% discount for soldiers. Good luck to you and your hubby Thanks for your service............................an old retired E7

 

[jeepgod]

yes.. get the 4' shop lights, i picked some up for 8 bucks for the two bulb hangers with reflector shield.. then got some bulbs that were around 4500 color temp or whatever its called.. (the higher this number, the whiter the light)... they work awesome!!

as for the work bench.. i second the idea of building one.. i built mine for around 90 bucks in material... and tho its not as pretty.. it is beefy..
4x4's for legs.. 2x4's for frame... 3/4" mdf for top.. with plenty of cross bracing.. it's solid.. it routinely sees several hundred pounds of axles on it..

i would also go with the epoxy.. a little more work.. but it will be cheaper.. and just as good if not a better finish...

 

[1320stang]

My built bench doesn't look bad, I painted the frame and put a 1x2 around the edge that is also painted. For the surface I put 10 coats of polyurethane down, I got some ribbed rubber runner from the flooring department at Lowe's and cut it to fit the top. As soon as I get the place all back into shape, I'll snap some pics.

 

[2DoubleDs]

For the surface I put 10 coats of polyurethane down, I got some ribbed rubber runner from the flooring department at Lowe's and cut it to fit the top.

Now I LIKE that idea. That is great! And yes, anybody who has pictures, please show me. I do have a sink for out there. It came all as an all-in-one kit. Had the sink, a cabinet like thing for it to sit in, hoses...everything. Worked for me. We are still working on the attic space. Reinforcing the bajeezes out of it.

I'm still toiling over paint for the walls. The floor I am going to paint myself in a checkerboard design and then get the clear coat epoxy stuff for over it. That's going to be a job and a half.

 

[2DoubleDs]

Just secured a barstool for his workbench. (we still need a workbench though ha ha ha)

 

[2DoubleDs]

My built bench doesn't look bad, I painted the frame and put a 1x2 around the edge that is also painted. For the surface I put 10 coats of polyurethane down, I got some ribbed rubber runner from the flooring department at Lowe's and cut it to fit the top. As soon as I get the place all back into shape, I'll snap some pics.

Is this kind of the same thing???

CHEVROLET WORKBENCH TOP​

 

[POR-15 Chris]

First of This a amazing trait to have in Women You husband is one lucky man.
Second if you haven't picked a definate floor coating i would check in the flooring section of this Journal and read up on whats been used and whats out there there is way more choices than you think.

 

[mhoffm911]

Chris,

What are the chances of Por-15 Depot (or the manufacturer) donating the floor finishing supplies to her since she is doing this to help out her husband that is away serving our country?

Judging by her posts so far, I am sure she will do a great write-up on whatever product she uses and it could be a great testimonial for the first company to step up to the plate...

 

[RickP330]

I don't know who will be doing the actual work, but painting the floor is tricky. There is alot of preperation and I think I would just suggest you use the professional Rustolium from HD. You will also need to degrease the floor with Simple Green, Etch it with Muriatic acid and then let it dry good and lay down a heavy coat of epoxy. Probably best bang for the buck and easiest.

For the walls I just used an eggshell that is the same color as the rest of the interior of our house. The eggshell hides alot of stuff and is still washable.
RickP

 

[z28toz06]

I must say looking at the pix of that floor, you might be better off going with a racedeck type tile. the link you put up shows a 3 dollar a square foot price and you can get race deck for that and actually build a much nicer floor.

Check out their site and then shop around for a good price on the west coast. Some of the corvette sites sell it and there are a lot of them on the left coast. They have a build a floor program on there and you can do some really neat stuff. Stay away from all dark tiles or colors as they tend to **** up a lot of light in the room, making all that lighting about useless.

www.racedeck.com

 

[wilbilt]

Chris,

What are the chances of Por-15 Depot (or the manufacturer) donating the floor finishing supplies to her since she is doing this to help out her husband that is away serving our country?

I think that is an excellent idea. It would be great publicity for the company, and be of service to one of our own sons in peril.

Come on, POR-15, ante up!!!

 

[rickairmedic]

I have a suggestion for cabinets for storage and a workbench all in one and they are generally free . I have with a little elbow grease taken a bunch of old metal kitchen cabinets I got for free off of my local Craigslist cleaned them up and painted them Ford Blue I'm a Fords guy . I have less than $100.00 into them including paint and a top I made out of 2X6's and 3/4" plywood. I also picked up a wooden drawer unit that was once used in a sore it was probably a $1000.00-$1500.00 cabinet when new its all solid wood and HEAVY and it was free .


Rick

 

[Detroit Diesel Man]

First I'd like to say Thanks to you and your Husband for giving up so much for the rest of that we have the freedom to have and use Forums like this.

I like the idea of the USMC insignia on the back wall..or possibly on the floor of the Garage..you can rent overhead projectors for pretty cheap to super impose the image onto the wall or floor trace it out then paint it.

Lots of storage is good too..be it cabinets(check with your local cabinetshop they sometimes have older units they tear out of houses they sell cheap)or shelving..closing in the ceiling and painting it white is also a good idea..bright ceiling and lighting is crucial..additional elec outlets..cable/TV/Internet is also a big plus..as is possibly additional Elec power wired solely for the Garage..also think about security..be sure the garge door is secure as well as any other entry points..Good luck with the project and I'll look forward to progress pics.

DDM

 

[2DoubleDs]

Wow. You guys are beautiful. You've all been a great help so far and it really touches me the support you have shown for my husband. I just wanted to say thank you.

Here are some pictures of the attic space coming along. The pictures are kind of dark because the light in the garage is not plugged in. (Don't know what happened with that. lol)

 

[RickP330]

Hello,
The cieling is looking better, but that's a large span to only be supported by 2x4's with no center post. Maybe there was something supporting it from above to the rafters? Personally, I would like to see some 2x6's running across the long direction. Maybe some of the other guys have better ideas....
RickP

 

[wilbilt]

I was thinking 2x6 at least. Those 2x4s look like they are on 48" centers? Yikes.

I know it's California and all, but up here in Butte County they made us run 2x10 ceiling joists...on 16" centers..for my inlaws' 24x32 garage. You could park a truck in that attic.


It does look like there are some vertical members ******* to the ridge, but the whole thing makes me nervous if there is going to be stuff stored up there..

 

[1320stang]

Shoot, I was thinking 2x8's across the garage (in place of the original 2x4's). You could sister them alongside of the originals. I'd go 2x8's on 24" centers minimum. The garage is what, 16' wide x 20' deep? I don't think a post would work in there. I wouldn't even trust my own body weight up there crawling around to get stuff, your husband doesn't need to get a call from you from the hospital. Anything worth doing, is worth doing right.

The mat you posted would work, but the stuff I had was much cheaper and easily replaceable, you could cover the whole bench for $15. I used the excess to make a drawer liner for a couple of my tool box drawers, works a ton better than the foam ball stuff that just slides around.

I like the checkerboard on the floor, maybe 2'x2' square? Paint the Corvette logo in the middle of the floor about 5' in diameter (easier than the Marine logo to paint, less detail) and put a Marine flag up on the wall. The aforementioned overhead projecter idea is good.

 

[BoCRon]

2DoubleD's,
Welcome, from another chick!!
I won't address everything you've asked, but will chime in on the subjects I hope I can help with.
First, I may have missed it, but what are the exact dimensions of the space, and how many vehicles do you hope to be able to park in there on a daily basis?

Ok, flooring, skip the stuff at HD on the shelf. Your floor looks pretty well used and will take ALOT of work to get to the point that any epoxy will stick to, much less the boxed stuff. If you really want to do an epoxy, go with a heavy duty one. We used the brand by www.originalcolorchips.com. I didn't actually use it in my garage, I used it in our dog training building. I used tiles by Sport Court in my garage which I love. I didn't have to prepare the floor beyond a good basic cleaning.

Lights, go with 4' lights. Get units that use T-8 bulbs, your husband will appreciate the extra light. And you can never have too much light! I changed my existing fixtures to ones that take T-8 bulbs. I didn't want to spend the money for an electrician so to add more fixtures, I added the hang down kind that just plug in. This way I can used the overhead fixtures for everyday, and can pull the chain light for when I need extra light.

Paint color-ok don't have a fit, but there is a great gray by Martha Stewart called Mercury Glass. It is a warm gray that works very well with most other colors so it is a great neutral background. You can get it at Sears. Now even though a high gloss paint is easier to clean, it is only good if the walls are perfect, which most aren't. Go with a Satin or Eggshell finish.

That's all I can come up with for now LOL,
Good luck,
Annette

 

[Vicious_Cycle]

That attic space doesn't look strong enough to hold anything.

 

[JMURiz]

That attic space doesn't look strong enough to hold anything.

Unfortunately I agree, I have 2"x10" spanning a 22' wide space and only 6' deep and I get a bit of shake when I'm up there.

If all that stuff is going to go up there, I'd suggest sistering 2x6s or 2x8s as suggested above on there. No such thing as too strong a storage floor.