Garage Dimensions
Wall Space Available
Enter usable wall space (excluding doors, windows, and vehicle clearance zones)
Storage Priorities
Select what you need to store (check all that apply)
Additional Options
Garage Organization Zones
Zone 1: Transition Area
Near the entry door. Add hooks for keys, coats, and bags. Small shelf for shoes. Keep this area clutter-free for daily use.
Zone 2: Everyday Access
Items used weekly at waist to eye level. Lawn tools, sports equipment, dog supplies. Use slatwall or hooks for easy grab-and-go access.
Zone 3: Bulk Storage
Deep shelving for bins and boxes. Paper goods, beverages, pet food in bulk. Place along back wall or side walls away from vehicles.
Zone 4: Workshop Area
Workbench with tool storage above. French cleats or pegboard for hand tools. Good lighting and electrical outlets essential.
Zone 5: Overhead Storage
Ceiling racks for seasonal and rarely used items. Holiday decorations, camping gear, luggage. Use clear bins with labels facing down.
Zone 6: Large Item Parking
Dedicated spots for lawn mower, bikes, ladders. Wall hooks for vertical storage. Keep floor clear for vehicle access.
Recommended Products
Garage Shelving Units
Heavy-duty shelving for maximum storage capacity.
Ceiling Storage Racks
Overhead racks to maximize vertical space.
Wall Organization Systems
Slatwall, pegboard, and track systems for tools and gear.
Garage Cabinets
Enclosed storage for a clean, organized look.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A typical 2-car garage (20x20 feet) needs 32-48 linear feet of shelving for moderate storage. This includes wall-mounted shelving along 2-3 walls, leaving room for vehicle parking. For heavy storage needs like tools and seasonal items, plan for 48-64 linear feet plus ceiling storage racks. Consider 16-24" deep shelving for most items, with 12" deep shelves for smaller items above workbenches.
The best garage wall storage system depends on your needs. French cleats offer maximum flexibility for workshop tools and are DIY-friendly with just plywood. Slatwall panels provide clean aesthetics and work well for sports gear and general storage with hundreds of accessory options. Pegboard is budget-friendly for lighter tools. For heavy items like power tools, metal wall cabinets with locks provide security and durability. Many garages benefit from a combination of systems in different zones.
Mount the first shelf 6-7 feet high in areas where you park vehicles to clear vehicle hoods. Upper shelves can go up to 12 inches from the ceiling. For walk-in storage areas without vehicles, mount lower shelves at 18-24 inches from the floor and space additional shelves 18-24 inches apart. Keep frequently used items between 3-6 feet high for easy access. Heavy items should go on lower shelves for safety and stability.
Yes, ceiling storage racks are excellent for garages with 9+ foot ceilings. They utilize otherwise wasted space above parked vehicles and are perfect for seasonal items, holiday decorations, camping gear, and luggage. A typical 4x8 foot overhead rack can hold 400-600 lbs and frees up valuable floor and wall space. Mount them at least 7 feet high to clear vehicle roofs, or higher for SUVs. They require solid ceiling joists for proper support.
Maximize small garage storage by focusing on vertical space: install floor-to-ceiling shelving on end walls, add overhead ceiling racks for seasonal items, use the wall space above the garage door for narrow shelving, and install wall-mounted bike hooks. Slatwall or French cleats keep tools off the floor. Consider a fold-down workbench that stores flat against the wall when not in use. Use clear labeled bins so you can find items quickly without digging through boxes.
Weight capacity varies significantly by shelving type. Wire shelving typically holds 350-600 lbs per shelf. Heavy-duty steel shelving supports 600-1000 lbs per shelf. Wall-mounted shelves with proper stud mounting hold 50-100 lbs per linear foot. Overhead ceiling racks typically support 400-600 lbs total when properly installed into ceiling joists. Always check manufacturer ratings and distribute weight evenly across shelves rather than loading one section heavily.