Don’t Overlook These Garage Storage Solution Systems

With a new season approaching, now is the perfect time to spruce up your home, starting with the garage. The most pertinent task? Cutting material clutter. Because the garage tends to be a place where we offload everything we can’t commit to discarding at that moment, functionality often declines, causing us to park in the driveway or buy multiples of something we already own. The latter is easier than dealing with the headache of searching for a needle in a haystack, especially if there is no usable garage storage solution systems installed, right?

Here are some idea to help cut the clutter and free up floor space.

Declutter

If you recently watched the Marie Kondo special on Netflix, the lesson to be learned is that if something doesn’t “spark joy,” you should donate it. Kondo also recommend focusing on categories (i.e., holiday decorations, tools, sports equipment, etc.), as this will help you get rid of duplicates and items that have overstayed their welcome. Once you’ve minimized the contents of your garage, the next step is to add garage storage solution systems in areas you’ve barely given a second glance – against the wall and above your head. These systems will free up tons of floor space.

Expert Tip: To stay on the right track, take inventory of your garage once a year, minimum.

Garage Storage Solution #1: Utility Shelves

Utility shelves are functional and aesthetically pleasing. Found at most any home improvement store or warehouse, they provide easy access to frequently used items such as sports equipment, lawn tools and more. Experts recommend storing loose items in clear bins with labels. This will allow you to efficiently identify what’s stored in which container without having to go through each box. Also, it’s a good idea to rotate bins, from front to back according to the season (i.e., spring/summer, or fall/winter).

Garage Storage Solution: #2: Overhead Racks

Look up to find additional storage space. Overhead racks are the perfect solution for maximizing storage space. Occasionally used items such as holiday décor and camping gear are easily stored above your head using suspension systems. That means more available space on your utility shelves for frequently used items. Available storage capacities include 750 lb. (ceiling mounted) or 1000 lb. (ceiling and wall mounted). When properly used, they are also designed to prevent swaying.

Garage Storage Solution #3: Slatwall or Pegboards

Slatwalls are great for hanging rakes, shovels, brooms and more. A wide range of accessories are available, from hooks for hanging landscaping equipment to baskets for storing auto cleaning supplies. Shelves are also available. Alternatively, you can install pegboards all along the top half of one wall, leaving space for a custom-built garage workbench on the lower half. You could also store larger equipment, like a lawnmower, directly under your choice of system.

Arizona Garage Door and Repair serves the entire Phoenix metro area, providing a broad range of services, from installation of your new garage door to replacement of broken torsion springs. We haven’t met a garage door or automatic opener that we won’t service! We also provide overhead garage storage solution systems to help you take back your garage. Get installation and repair projects done right, the first time, with the help of Arizona Garage Door and Repair by contacting us at (602) 396-4717.

Best Holiday Gifts for the Garage Enthusiast

Let the countdown begin: There are 28 shopping days to go!

At Arizona Garage Door and Repair, we are here to help you snag the best holiday gifts for the garage enthusiast on your list. If he/she thinks outside the box and uses the garage for alternative purposes, such as working on cars, getting fit or building DIY furniture, we have you covered. We have also included ideas for the person who just needs is a little more room to park their vehicles at the end of the day.

Here are a few of the best holiday gifts for the garage enthusiast.

Bluetooth Speaker

For the garage enthusiast who enjoys listening to music, consider a Bluetooth speaker. The nice thing about Bluetooth speakers is that they are portable. They are also available in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors. There are even water-resistant speakers. The UE Boom 2 has been rated “the best Bluetooth speaker” by TechRadar.com. Weighing 1.2 pounds, it features a waterproof design, 15-hour battery life and a wireless range of 30+ feet.

Mechanic’s Tool Set

A Mechanic’s Tool Set is a necessity for anyone who likes repairing, maintaining, or restoring cars. The key is to look for a set that includes both SAE and metric-sized sockets and drive tools. Most sets available online or at local auto stores come in an easy-to-carry bag or case. In addition to a tool set, some other ideas for the mechanic on your list include work lights, portable jump starters, and creepers for sliding comfortably under cars and trucks.

Overhead Storage Racks

Do you know someone who could benefit from more storage space? One of the best tools to help them control clutter is an overhead storage rack. These racks make use of space not normally utilized, freeing floor space for more important things, including sheltering the car from harmful UV rays. 750-pound capacity (ceiling mounted) and 1000-pound (ceiling and wall mounted) overhead storage racks are available. These racks are designed to prevent swaying as well.

Garage Fitness Equipment

Working out is crucial for optimal health and well-being. The American Heart Association recommends that adults exercise for a minimum of 150 minutes per week. That is less than 30 minutes a day! If the garage enthusiast on your list is active, consider gifting them with the sports and fitness equipment they need crush their goals, whatever those may be. Some great ideas include strength training weight racks, exercise benches, power cages, and plyoboxes.

Smart Garage Door Opener

Is someone on your list interested in home automation? A smart garage door opener should be on your short list then. Smart garage door openers will allow the recipient to control their garage door from anywhere, anytime, assuming they have a reliable connection to the internet. This is achieved using an iOS or Android app. Some smart garage door openers even feature automatic closing through geofencing.

Monsoon Season Do’s and Don’ts

monsoon season

Monsoon season always brings a respite from the fiery heat of summer. Beginning June 15th and stretching until September 30th, Arizona’s monsoon season can bring blinding dust storms, torrential rains, and storms complete with claps of thunder and lightning flashes. These storms, as most Arizonans are familiar with, often strike suddenly and with violent force. To help you stay safe this monsoon season, consider these tips.

Do: Check Your Garage Door

The durability of your garage door is vital. Not taking your garage door’s wind resistance into consideration could spell big trouble. If shopping for a new garage door, consider the door’s ability to withstand various wind speeds. If the garage door or garage door opener is malfunctioning or damaged, contact a garage door repair professional to service it.

Do: Make Room in the Garage

If you haven’t already done so, now is the perfect time to clear out that over-stuffed garage, making room for your vehicles. Parking your car in the garage provides much needed peace-of-mind during a storm. This also allows you the opportunity to get any personal belongings off the floor, out of cardboard boxes and stored safely on shelving units so should any water penetrate the garage, they’re protected.

Do: Secure Outdoor Furniture

Loose items in your yard can become flying projectiles during monsoon season due to high winds. Take care to move any unsecured items, such as patio furniture, bird feeders, wind chimes, hanging or container plants, toys, and grills inside your house or garage if possible. If you can’t bring them in, use a chain or rope to secure them.

Do: Comfort Pets

During the monsoon, claps of thunder and flashes of lightning can strike terror in the best of us, but more so in your pet; even if he/she is normally calm. Veterinarians call this “storm anxiety” or “noise phobia.” This fear can manifest itself in a variety of challenging behaviors – hiding, whining or, if outdoors running away in a state of panic.

To help your dog cope, provide a safe area, like a crate (keep the door open so not to make him/her feel trapped) to create the feeling of a safe haven. You can also play calming music or distract your dog with treats and familiar games. The absolute best thing you can do, however, is to just stay with him/her until the storm passes.

Don’t: Drive Through Flood Water

One of the main hazards associated with the monsoon is flooding. Rainfall during this time is typically heavy, and because it doesn’t soak into the ground, it often results in copious runoff into our normally dry desert washes. It is extremely difficult to estimate the depth of running water or the strength of a current.

As reported by the National Weather Service, it takes only 6 inches of fast-moving water to sweep an adult off his feet, and 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car. 2 feet of rushing water can wash most any vehicle off the road. If that’s not enough to deter you, Arizona’s Stupid Motorist Law makes you responsible for the cost of the rescue as well as a fine.

Don’t: Speed on Wet Roads

Whether driving in a downpour or on wet roads, slow down and allow more time to get to your destination. Avoid using cruise control. This feature works great in dry conditions, but when used in wet conditions, the chance of losing control of your vehicle is magnified. Also, it’s important to increase the following distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you, ensuring ample stopping time. If caught in a blinding dust storm, you should:

Popular Mountain Bike Trails in Arizona

mountain bike trails

Living in the city requires regular intervals of time away from home, the car, work and just about everything else. Our favorite way to unwind? Unmounting our mountain bikes from their garage storage racks and hitting the seemingly endless mountain trails around Maricopa County. Most are also suitable for hikers and trail runners.

Many nearby mountains, South Mountain included, open at 5 a.m. and stay open until 7 p.m. Although trails may be closed if a excessive heat advisory is in effect.

While adventure awaits, it’s important not to under-hydrate (active adults should drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day) or hesitate to snack on well-balanced, light snacks. Dogs are not permitted on any trails during the summer months.

Here are just a few of our favorite picks for mountain biking.

40th St. Trailhead
Beginners

9200 N. 40th St.

Phoenix, AZ 85028

40th St. Trailhead provides mountain bikers with a nice network of desert trails right in the middle of the Phoenix metroplex. You will find a combination of technical rock trails, washes, and climbs throughout that will challenge most riders. These trails cross over Trail 100 which allows for lots of other options. The trailhead is suitable for all riders including beginners.

Papago Park

Beginners

625 N. Galvin Pkwy

Phoenix, AZ 85008

Papago has a mixture of great climbs, rolling and fast descents, technical sections, and fun obstacles. With a large network of trails to conquer, you can put together as little or as many miles, and as much climbing as you’d like. Many beginners choose Papago for its easy, well-maintained trails, but don’t let first appearances fool you. Tougher stuff is out there for more advanced riders, as well.

Desert Classic

Beginners

10919 S. Central Ave.

Phoenix, AZ 85042

Accessible year-round, this nine-mile in and nine-mile out loop trail offers a number of activity options, including trail running, hiking and mountain biking. The trail, while relatively flat, has a few climbs and little ups and downs that most beginning bikers will enjoy. Following the trail is a cinch, thanks to the frequent signs. Keep in mind: Desert Classic tends to be very busy during the weekends.

National Trail

Advanced

9904 S. 48th St.

Phoenix, AZ 85044

National Trail is composed of one long trail (15 miles) that cuts right through the heart of South Mountain. A local favorite, it is home to the infamous waterfall. You can ride this trail 365, but in the summers, it is not for the faint of heart as temperatures are in the triple-digits. Bring LOTS of water regardless of the season. There are technical rock moves (up and down) interspersed throughout the trail.