We're finally getting around to fixing up our garage, and I'm torn between a quick cosmetic update (paint, flooring, storage) or going all-in with insulation, drywall, and maybe even a mini-workshop area. Curious how long each option took for you guys?
Did a full garage reno last summer—insulation, drywall, epoxy floors, and built-in storage. Took about 3 weekends total, but honestly, the extra effort was worth it. Now it's comfy year-round and I actually enjoy spending time out there... highly recommend going all-in if you can swing it.
"Took about 3 weekends total, but honestly, the extra effort was worth it."
Three weekends is pretty impressive. I tackled mine a couple years back and it definitely took longer than that... probably closer to five or six weekends spread over two months. Granted, I was working mostly solo and had to juggle around family stuff, but still.
I went with insulation, drywall, and epoxy floors too, but skipped the built-ins. Instead, I opted for some heavy-duty shelving units I found on sale. Honestly, I kinda regret not going for built-ins now. The shelves are sturdy enough, but they take up more space than I'd like, and they don't look nearly as clean as custom cabinetry.
The epoxy floor was hands-down the best decision though. Before, my garage floor was cracked concrete that was impossible to keep clean. Now, spills wipe right up and it just feels way nicer to walk on. Plus, it's held up great so far—no peeling or chipping yet, knock on wood.
One thing I underestimated was lighting. Thought the existing fixtures would be fine, but after finishing everything else, the space felt kinda dim and gloomy. Ended up installing some LED shop lights later on, and it made a huge difference. Wish I'd done that from the start, would've saved me some hassle.
Anyway, totally agree with you about going all-in if possible. Even though mine dragged out a bit longer than planned, having a comfortable garage year-round is a game changer.
Three weekends is definitely quick—nice job! Mine took closer to two months, but I was only able to chip away at it here and there after work. A few thoughts from my experience:
- Totally agree on epoxy floors. I hesitated at first because of the prep work involved, but man, it was worth every minute. My old concrete was stained and cracked, and now it's like night and day. Easy cleanup, looks great, and no issues yet after almost three years.
- Built-ins vs shelving units: I actually went the opposite route—I started with built-ins but ended up pulling them out later. They looked nice, but I found them limiting when I wanted to rearrange or store larger items. Switched to modular shelving units instead, and while they're not as sleek, the flexibility has been a lifesaver. Guess it depends on your priorities.
- Lighting was a big one for me too. I initially thought the single overhead bulb would be enough (rookie mistake), but after finishing drywall and painting, the space felt gloomy and cramped. Added some LED strips along the ceiling edges and a couple of bright shop lights—huge improvement. Wish I'd planned that from the start.
"Even though mine dragged out a bit longer than planned, having a comfortable garage year-round is a game changer."
Couldn't agree more with this. Before renovating, my garage was basically just storage space—cold in winter, hot in summer, and always cluttered. Now it's become my go-to spot for projects or just hanging out. Even though it took longer than expected (and cost a bit more too), I'd do it again in a heartbeat.
Totally relate with the built-ins vs modular shelving thing. I had these grand plans for custom cabinets and built-ins at first, but halfway through realized I needed more flexibility. Went modular instead—best decision ever. Also seconding the epoxy floors; the prep's a pain, but man, the payoff is huge. Mine took about five weekends total, mostly DIY with some buddy help and pizza bribery...worth every slice.
