Creating a Dream Garage for the Mechanic or Car Enthusiast

For some, just mentioning the word “garage” can have the same effect that saying “walk” has for a dog – mechanics and car enthusiasts just can’t help but get excited. If you are one whose ears prick up at the click-whir-wheeze sound of an air compressor or if the slightest hint of motor oil in the air is like perfume, then your garage is so much more than simply a place for automobiles; it’s your man-cave, sanctuary, and playground all rolled into one package. If you want to create that perfect garage nirvana, the following will help you figure out what you need.

The Important Things

Before we get to the fun stuff, a few things need to come before that amazing tool collection – don’t worry, we’ll get there, I promise – you just have to take care of a few less than exciting things first. One of these is the floor of your domain. If you’re going to be working on vehicles, you really need an epoxy coating over the concrete. This will make sure the surface is solid and easy to maintain, it won’t absorb any accidental spills, and most importantly, it will be smooth and flat so there isn’t any danger of you slipping or tripping over uneven flooring.

You also need to consider the lights. Make sure you have bright lighting that will make it easier to see when you’re under the hood. Don’t forget portable lights either – the lights above just aren’t going to be good enough if you’re under the car or buried in the dashboard.

The Tools

See? I told you we’d get here! Any self-respecting mechanic or car enthusiast has to have the right tools to get the job done. While there isn’t necessarily a specific brand that you absolutely have to have, you do need to make sure they’re high quality – using a cheap wrench or socket that breaks is hard on the knuckles! The following are some of the must-haves that will see you through nearly any job you might need to do.

• Floor Jacks – A good, easy rolling car jack is essential, regardless of whatever goodies you might decide to add. The absolute best option would be a four or five-ton weight rating to make sure you can handle nearly any car, truck, or SUV. If you don’t want to go that large, you shouldn’t go any smaller than a two ton. You also need to make sure you have jack stands that are heavy duty as well.
• Lifts – Even if you have the behemoth five-ton floor jack, you really should have a car lift as well. There are options that have only two posts or four posts – either choice is great. Just make sure you like working with it and you should be fine.
• Hoists – An engine hoist is an absolute must if you really want to be able to handle anything. Engines are big, bulky, and heavy, so make sure you choose one that provides enough balance.
• Wrench and Socket Sets – This is a no-brainer, but you will need the appropriate tools for all those nuts and bolts. Make sure you get both metric and imperial with adapters.
• Ratchets – These are essential as well – they’re adjustable, which means you’ll be able to adapt to any situation.
• Dremels – Dremel rotary tools are just great things to have around. You’ll eventually snap a bolt or need to cut something.

If you make sure your garage has all of these things, then you will truly have that workspace you’ve been dreaming of – just make sure you install a security system too. You know how expensive all that stuff is, and so does everyone else!

Last but not least, consider changing your garage door. Not only will it be more stylish, but windows could add light, quality insulations will keep you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, and an electric door opener will contribute another level of security. Just complete this convenient form to get a free quote. Or even give us a call at 508-563-5633. We at Caspersen Garage Doors are the knowledgeable experts to guide you through your purchase.