You finally did it! You converted that unused garage space into your ultimate workshop. You’re about ready to get started on all the projects you’ve never had space to do. Before you get started, you need to make sure you’ve got everything you’ll need for the projects ahead. Neighborhood Garage Door Service of Minneapolis, MN has a quick checklist of equipment for you garage workshop to get you set for work.
Workspace
You need to make sure your workspace is all set up. The first place to start is a proper workbench. You want something sturdy and big enough to handle the kind of work you plan to do. Many workbenches come with a vice grip attachment which is very handy. You can use it for metalwork, gluing together wood pieces, cutting conduit, sanding, and more.
Above your workbench, you’ll want to mount a pegboard to hang your hand tools for easy access. Make it a little bigger than you think you’ll need so you have room to add more tools as you acquire them.
Lastly, you’ll want plenty of lighting over your bench. Install fluorescent lighting that’s the full length of the bench so you don’t end up with dark areas. Consider also having portable shop lights that you can move around the bench, or anywhere else in your workshop. This will be helpful both in seeing work you’re doing as well as any small objects you may drop.
Handtools
Make a list of the various types of projects you already have on your list, and then make a note of all the tools you’d need to complete them. You can build up your arsenal of tools one project at a time, rather than laying all the money up front. However, there are some basic tools that will be needed for every project. It’s best to equip your workshop with these essentials
- Flathead screwdriver
- Phillips screwdriver
- Needle nose pliers
- Channel lock pliers
- Plumbers pliers
- Crescent wrenches
- Socket wrenches
- Utility knife
- Scraper
- Level
- Hex key set
- Hand saw
- Hack saw
- Level
- Tape measure
Power tools
In addition to your hand tools, there are some power tools that always come in handy. Make sure you have these nearby:
- Planer
- Circular saw/skill saw
- Cordless drill
- Drill set with drill bits and screwdriver bits
- Belt sander
- Powered hand-sander
- Router
- Air compressor
An air compressor may not seem like standard issue for a simple workshop. You’d be surprised how often it can be very useful. Being able to inflate your own vehicle tires is a huge time saver. A compressor can be used for quickly cleaning off the sawdust and scrap on your workbench between projects or stages. It will power airbrushes for painting or staining. Lastly, it will power a wide array of pneumatic power tools.
Safety gear
Any workshop needs to be equipped with proper safety gear. It’s important for you, and your kids. Stock your shop with these important items
- Work gloves
- Safety glasses – consider a pair of prescription safety glasses if you regularly wear glasses
- First-aid kit
- Floor mat – this will prevent foot fatigue, as well as provide a non-slip surface
Storage
A good workshop has plenty of storage for the odds and ends that collect there. Figure out what your needs will be, and then consider the following storage methods:
- Plastic tubs for larger items
- Shelving
- Tackle boxes for screws, bolts, and nuts
- Various tool boxes
- Tool chests on wheels
Once you’ve got all these items squared away, you’ll be all set to start those long-neglected projects. You may discover as you begin working in your new space that your garage door is no longer serving your needs. Maybe the panels are not properly insulated for a workroom. With the increased use of the space, you may discover maintenance issues you hadn’t noticed before. If you need help in this area, call us at Neighborhood Garage Door Service of Minneapolis, MN.
Our trained phone operators will guide you through the process of choosing the right overhead garage door for your new shop. Our professional technicians can be on site as early as today for a consultation. Don’t wait, call today!
