5 Important Garage Renovation Ideas That Often Get Overlooked

Are you thinking about doing a garage renovation?

Renovating your garage space can have several benefits that include increasing the value of your home, and adding additional space for improved home organization and storage.

If you are considering updating your garage space, there are a few key things to keep in mind.

5 important garage renovation ideas that often get overlooked Pinterest pin

Whether you are looking to improve the functionality of the space or just give it a fresh look, there are a variety of options to consider when planning a garage refurbishment. 

However, simple updates are often overlooked. Here are 5 garage renovation ideas to help make the most of your garage. 

Define the Purpose of Your Garage Renovation

garage with workspace, cabinets, shelves and storage
One of the best uses of space in a garage is storage! With lots of wall space to play with, maximize it with shelves, cabinets and plenty of hooks to hang all your tools.

Before you start any garage renovation work, it is important to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with your garage makeover.

Do you want to use the space as a home gym, a workshop, or a storage area?

Once you have explored some garage refurbishment ideas and have a clear vision of what you want to use the space for, you can begin to plan the garage renovation work accordingly.

Upgrade the Flooring

epoxy flooring in the garage with a car
Epoxy flooring for your garage is a superb investment

When it comes to upgrading the flooring in your garage, one option to consider is epoxy concrete flooring. Epoxy coatings are made from a combination of resin and hardener, which creates a durable and long-lasting surface that is resistant to stains, chemicals, and abrasions.

Epoxy concrete flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners because it is easy to clean and maintain, and it can give your garage a sleek and modern look.

One of the main benefits of epoxy concrete flooring is its durability. Epoxy coatings are designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, vehicle traffic, and other wear and tear, making them an excellent choice for a high-traffic area like a garage.

They are resistant to spills, stains, and chemicals, which is important if you plan on using your garage as a workshop or storage area.

man painting an epoxy concrete floor
Epoxy concrete flooring

Another benefit of epoxy concrete flooring is that it is easy to clean and maintain. Because the surface is non-porous, spills and stains can be easily wiped away with a damp cloth or mop. The smooth surface of epoxy flooring makes it less likely for dirt and debris to get trapped in the surface, which makes cleaning a breeze.

It is important to note that installing epoxy concrete flooring is not a DIY project. It requires a professional installation, as it involves a multi-step process that includes surface preparation, priming, and coating.

A professional installer will have the knowledge, tools, and experience to ensure that the surface is properly prepared and the coating is applied correctly, which is essential for the longevity and durability of the flooring.

Install Insulation

insulation going in on the inside of a garage
Garage insulation can turn this space into a cold and uninviting space, to somewhere you want to spend time in to pursue your hobbies.

If you are looking at renovating your garage space, installing insulation can provide other benefits beyond just temperature regulation. One such benefit is noise reduction. Insulation can help to absorb and block out sound, which can be especially important if you use your garage as a workspace or for storage. This can make your garage a more peaceful and functional environment overall.

Insulation can also help to improve the energy efficiency of your home. A properly insulated garage can prevent hot or cold air from escaping, which can reduce your energy bills and overall energy usage. This is particularly important if your garage is attached to your home, as air can easily escape through the walls and into the living space.

When it comes to choosing insulation for your garage makeover, there are a few options to consider.

One option is fiberglass insulation, which is a popular choice due to its effectiveness and affordability. It is made from thin strands of glass and comes in rolls or batts.

Another option is spray foam insulation, which is a more expensive but highly effective option. Spray foam is applied using a special machine that sprays the foam directly onto the walls and ceilings, which can help to fill in any gaps and provide a more complete seal.

person using a spray gun to spray foam insulation on the inside of a roof
Spray foam insulation is a highly effective way to insulate your garage

Like epoxy flooring, insulation requires a professional installation to ensure that it is properly installed and sealed. A professional installer will be able to determine the appropriate type and amount of insulation needed for your garage refurbishment, based on factors such as the size and location of the space.

Consider Adding Windows

Garage with blue cladding, white curved garage doors and windows with sutters and a stone dashed wall
A garage doesn’t have to be ugly!

Windows are an excellent addition to any garage space, as they can provide a range of benefits beyond just improved ventilation and lighting. Windows can give your garage a more aesthetically pleasing look by breaking up the monotony of solid walls. This is especially true if you have a garage door that takes up a large portion of the front of the space.

Another benefit of adding windows to your garage is that it can improve the overall value of your home. When it comes time to sell your property, having a well-lit and well-ventilated garage can be a major selling point for potential buyers. It can increase the livable space of your home, especially if you plan on using your garage as a workshop or other functional space.

You can also consider adding skylights to your garage. Skylights are a great way to bring in natural light without sacrificing valuable wall space. They can also be a good option for garages that are attached to other structures, such as a house or an apartment building, as they can help to maintain privacy while still providing plenty of natural light.

skylights with blue sky
Consider adding skylights when you are planning a garage makeover

When it comes to choosing the right windows for your garage makeover, there are a few factors to consider.

You will want to choose windows that are durable and energy-efficient, especially if you live in an area with extreme temperatures. A way you can achieve this is to have professionals at Shady Biz Tinting tint your windows. Shading your windows can give you privacy and also give you increased heat rejection and interior protection. Garages tend to be small rooms so can heat up quite rapidly!

Finally, you will also want to consider the size and placement of the windows, as well as the style of the frame and glass.

Upgrade Your Lighting

an empty garage with good storage on either walls and bright LED lights on the ceiling
Use efficient and bright lighting in the garage

A well-lit garage can make a big difference in your productivity and safety. Consider upgrading your garage lighting to bright LED bulbs, motion-activated lights, or overhead fixtures.

If you tend to use your garage as a workshop, storage space or somewhere you go to DIY, better lighting will help you see your workspace more clearly and perform tasks more efficiently. Poor lighting tends to bring eye strain and with it, headaches! 

Better lighting is also good for enhancing your safety whilst in the garage. Motion-activated lights that turn on automatically when you enter the garage can help prevent accidents and injuries. 

It also makes your garage a more welcoming space. Garages can be quite dark and dusty, so by using efficient and bright lighting, you can get rid of those dark corners and create a space you’ll want to work in, whatever the time. 

a garage workshop with task lighting above a workbench

Choosing the best lighting for your garage renovation really depends on what you’re planning to use the space for. Here are some considerations and recommendations:

Overall Illumination (General Lighting): High-powered, energy-efficient LED lights are generally the best for overall illumination. LED lights provide bright, clear light and are more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs. They also have a long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Some homeowners choose LED shop lights or LED garage ceiling lights for this purpose.

Task Lighting: If you’re planning to use your garage as a workshop, for example, consider installing task lighting. Task lights are focused on specific areas where you’ll be working, such as a workbench or tool station. They should be bright enough to prevent eye strain. Adjustable LED desk lamps or under-cabinet lights are suitable for this purpose.

Accent Lighting: If you’re planning to convert your garage into a lounge or living space, accent lighting can help create the right ambiance. LED strip lights or recessed lights can highlight architectural features, wall art, or other focal points.

Natural Light: Don’t forget about natural light when starting a garage makeover. If possible, consider adding windows or skylights during your renovation. Natural light can make the space feel more welcoming and can help save on electricity costs during the day.

Controls: Lastly, think about how you will control your lighting. Will each light have its own switch, or will you use a central panel? You might also consider using smart lights that you can control from your phone or through a home automation system.

Don’t Forget the Garage Door

brown, cream, mustard and salmon pink garage doors along a street
The colour of your garage door can make a real impact

The garage door is often the first thing people notice when looking at your garage, and it can have a big impact on the overall appearance and functionality of the space.

A garage door upgrade can be a great way to give your garage a fresh new look and improve its overall performance.

One of the first things to consider when upgrading your garage door is the style. There are many different styles to choose from, including traditional, modern, and carriage house styles.

Each style has its own unique look and feel, so it is important to choose one that matches your personal style and the architecture of your home.

Colour is another important factor to consider when thinking about a garage door upgrade. The right colour can help to tie your garage space into the overall look and feel of your home.

You can choose a colour that matches the colour of your home, or you can choose a complementary colour that helps to make your garage stand out.

black stable style garage doors next to a pink wall
Garage doors don’t just have to be metal! Think of stable-style doors to make a real impact when you are planning a garage makeover

Upgrading the material of your garage door is another great way to refresh your garage. There are several different materials to choose from, including wood, steel, aluminum, and vinyl.

Each material has its own pros and cons, so it is important to choose one that meets your needs and budget. One of the most practical garage door upgrades is installing a garage door opener. A new garage door opener can make it easier to access your space, especially if you have an older manual opener.

There are several different types of garage door openers to choose from, including chain-drive, belt-drive, and screw-drive openers.

house with blue panelled garage, white garage door, blue skies and lots of plants in the garden
With a little attention to detail, your garage renovation can make a real impact. Photo by Benjamin Rascoe on Unsplash

A garage refurbishment can be a great way to improve the functionality and appearance of your home.

By defining the purpose of the space, planning the layout, upgrading the lighting, installing insulation, adding windows, upgrading the flooring, and upgrading the garage door, you can create a space that is both functional and visually appealing.

With a little planning and effort, your garage can become a valuable addition to your home.

Disclosure: Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, I will receive a very small commission if you click through and make a purchase. These links help to pay the editorial costs of writing a blog. For more information, read my full affiliate disclosure here.

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5 important garage renovation ideas that often get overlooked Pinterest pin
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