Building Shelves Above Garage Door: My Personal Experience

Building Shelves Above Garage Door: My Personal Experience

As a homeowner, I am always looking for ways to maximize storage space in my garage. After years of struggling to find space for everything, I decided to try building shelves above my garage door. The experience was challenging but rewarding, and I want to share my insights with anyone else considering this project.

What is Building Shelves Above Garage Door?

Building shelves above the garage door is a DIY storage solution that involves attaching wooden or metal shelves to the ceiling above the garage door. This creates additional storage space that is out of the way and can be used to store items such as seasonal decorations, sports equipment, and tools.

Step-by-Step Guide for Building Shelves Above Garage Door

Before beginning this project, it is important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. You will need:

1. Measuring tape
2. Drill
3. Screws
4. Wooden or metal shelves
5. Ladder

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Measure the length and width of the area above the garage door.
2. Cut the shelves to the desired length and width.
3. Attach the brackets to the shelves using screws.
4. Place a ladder under the area where you will be installing the shelves.
5. Using a drill, attach the brackets to the ceiling joists.
6. Place the shelves on top of the brackets.
7. Secure the shelves to the brackets using screws.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Building Shelves Above Garage Door

Here are some tips and ideas to keep in mind when building shelves above your garage door:

1. Choose sturdy shelves that can hold the weight of your items.
2. Make sure the brackets are securely attached to the ceiling joists.
3. Consider using wire shelves that allow for airflow and can prevent moisture buildup.
4. Label your items and use clear bins to make it easy to find what you need.
5. Use hooks to hang items such as bikes or ladders from the bottom of the shelves.
6. Paint the shelves to match the color of your garage for a cohesive look.
7. Add lighting above the shelves to make it easier to see your items.
8. Consider installing a pulley system to easily access items stored on the shelves.
9. Use the space above the shelves to hang additional items such as folding chairs or umbrellas.
10. Regularly declutter and organize the shelves to ensure they remain functional.

Pros and Cons of Building Shelves Above Garage Door

Like any DIY project, building shelves above the garage door has its pros and cons. Here are some to consider:

Pros:

• Maximizes storage space in an otherwise unused area.
• Keeps items off the garage floor, creating more space for cars and other items.
• Provides easy access to seasonal items and sports equipment.
• Can increase the value of your home by adding additional storage space.

Cons:

• Can be challenging to install without the right tools and knowledge.
• May not be suitable for heavy or bulky items.
• Can make it difficult to access the garage door opener or lighting.
• May require a professional installer if you are not comfortable with DIY projects.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I highly recommend building shelves above the garage door as a DIY storage solution. It has helped me to keep my garage more organized and free up space for other items. However, I do suggest that you carefully consider the weight and size of the items you plan to store on the shelves before beginning the project. Additionally, be sure to follow all safety precautions and seek professional help if needed.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Here are some common questions and answers about building shelves above the garage door:

Q: How much weight can the shelves hold?

A: The weight capacity of the shelves will depend on the material and size of the shelves, as well as the brackets and installation method. Be sure to choose shelves that are designed to hold the weight of your items.

Q: Can I still use my garage door opener?

A: Yes, you can still use your garage door opener with shelves installed above the door. However, you may need to adjust the height of the shelves to ensure they do not interfere with the opener.

Q: Do I need to hire a professional to install the shelves?

A: It is possible to install the shelves yourself with the right tools and knowledge. However, if you are not comfortable with DIY projects or do not have the necessary tools, it may be best to hire a professional installer.