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The Do It Yourself DIY Garage Gym Guide
Image source © Deposit Photos

For many avid (and not-so-avid) gymgoers, the idea of being able to get a killer workout in the garage is like a dream.
The good news is that if you have a garage with at least some space available then you can definitely turn it into your own private garage gym.
There will be some costs obviously and take a bit of work on your part, but neither of those are serious obstacles.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how you can turn your do it yourself garage gym dreams into a reality.
Advantages of a Garage Gym
The biggest perk of a garage gym is undoubtedly the fact that you’ll be free of any membership fee you had to pay to go to the gym.
Sure, there will have to be some investment to get your garage gym up and running, but just do the math and see how long it will take you to recoup your upfront costs.
It’s possible to set up a solid garage gym for about $500 to $1,000. If you’re paying $50 to $100 per month for a gym membership, you’ll have made that back in less than one year.
Another advantage is that you won’t need to commute to the gym anymore. This means you’ll also save money on gas and the time that commute would typically take you.
Working out at home is as convenient as it gets. You don’t need to find parking or wait for anyone to be done on the equipment you want to use.
You won’t be dependent on fitting a workout into the times that the gyms are open and inconvenient to your schedule.
You’ll have an environment completely to yourself and free of distractions, and that can lead to more effective workouts.
How Much Space Will Your Gym Need?
This depends on you and what your goals are. If you have enough space for a weight bench, a squat rack and the weights themselves, you’ll have the basics to complete a workout.
Average garage sizes are around 20′ x 20′.
Break out your tape measure to see how much space you have to work with. On the other hand, if you prefer to go through a diverse range of exercises requiring various equipment and room to move, then you’ll obviously need more space for accessories.
You also don’t want to be too cramped while you work out. If you’re worried about banging the barbell on your car while you do power cleans, then you don’t have enough space.
You can probably determine if you’ll have enough space just by eyeballing it. If you’re not sure, look up the measurements for the equipment you plan to use, or something similar, online.
Compare those measurements to how much space you have in your garage.
If you want to get really detailed you can plan your layout using Google’s Sketchup. It is free 3D modeling software that has a huge library of household items.
What Can You Really Do at Home in Your Garage?
Image source © Deposit Photos
Most of what you can do in a regular gym can also be done in a garage gym. Your monster gains are only limited by the amount of space you have and your equipment.
With enough room, you could set up various machines and other equipment, allowing you to do everything from cardio to heavy resistance training.
Even with a basic setup with a weight bench, a squat rack, and a pull-up bar, you’ll have no shortage of exercises you can do to build muscle and lose fat.
Now that we’ve covered garage gym benefits and a couple common questions, we’ll move on to building yours.
Before You Start the Gym: Clear Out Your Space
It doesn’t make much sense to start moving equipment into your garage when you still need to clean it out so be sure you declutter first. This is the perfect opportunity to get rid of things you never use and don’t need anymore.
Go through every nook and cranny of your garage and see what you find. Whenever you find something you don’t need, you should either sell it (which is a great way to get some money for this project), donate it or throw it out.
You’ll likely get your garage better organized and clear up some space this way, meaning more space for your gym.
One more thing, you can mount a TV on the wall to save some space in your new home gym. No gym is complete without some form of entertainment system like a wall-mounted TV playing the latest chart-topping hit songs to make the space more exciting.
Ready to Build Your Garage Gym?
Okay! If you’re on board here are the five steps you need to take in order to move forward.

1. Determine Your Gym Goals and Your Budget
These are the two biggest factors in determining how you set up your garage gym. You need a gym that helps you train for your specific goals, and your budget affects what kind of equipment you can buy.
You’ll probably want to start with your budget since that tends to be the easiest thing to figure out. It’s good to have at least $500 to invest otherwise you’ll have a tough time getting good equipment. This isn’t as important if you already have some equipment you can use or if you’re planning on a very Spartan setup for your gym.
Get as specific as possible for your goals. Maybe you’re planning to do triathlons, CrossFit competitions or powerlifting. Or maybe you’re just wanting to get in better shape.
Just make sure the equipment you choose can get you where you want to be.
2. Figure Out Your Heating and Cooling
One challenge of training in a garage is that you have less control over the temperature and humidity than you do in the rest of your home. And while people often think that training in more difficult conditions will toughen them up, this can often be a pipedream.
Forget about whatever you saw in the Rocky movies. When it’s winter and your garage is freezing, you’ll want to curl up under a blanket, not pump some iron.
Depending on where you live, you’re probably going to need either a heater, fans, an air conditioner or all of the above.
To keep costs down, you can purchase whatever you need for your current weather conditions first.
3. Start with Some DIY Essentials
So, your garage is ready for action now, and it’s time to get some equipment for it. If you can spend as much as you want on this project, then go ahead and buy whatever equipment and accessories you want. If, like most of us, you’re on a limited budget, then you should start by buying the essentials.
What equipment is essential depends on what type of training you want to do. Most will want to do strength and resistance training, and for that, you can start with the following:
- One weight bench
- One squat rack
- One 45-pound Olympic barbell
- Weight plates (as much as you need)
With this equipment alone, you can work out every muscle in your body and perform all the best compound lifts, such as the bench press, squat, deadlift and power clean.
Weights are one of the biggest expenses, and how much you need depends on your size and experience level. If you’re a beginner or intermediate lifter, about 300 pounds is a good start. Of course, if you’ve done much lifting, you should already have an idea of how much weight you need.
One type of equipment that you should probably avoid is the home gym machine that you’ve seen advertised on a million different infomercials. These are typically overpriced for what they offer, and they often don’t have enough resistance for serious lifters to get an effective workout.
Tip: How to Get the Most Bang for Your Buck
Buying gym equipment on a budget is tough. You need to find equipment that you can afford but if you get cheap, low-quality equipment, you’ll just end up needing to replace it sooner rather than later.
Additionally. cheap equipment could negatively affect your workouts if it has a poor design or doesn’t perform properly.
When it comes to gym equipment you can score the best deals when you buy used. Although eBay can be a good option what you save on the equipment, you often pay back in shipping.
Craigslist is usually one of the top sites where you can find used gym equipment at affordable prices, especially if you know how to negotiate with people.
Let’s be honest – people get gung-ho about working out all the time, buy a bunch of equipment, and then quit a few months later.
Their loss can be your gain here. Make sure you check out some used gym equipment listings as you could find some amazing deals.
4. Gradually Add More Equipment to Your Gym
Pull up and dip station
Once your garage gym has some basic equipment spend a fair amount of time using it and then you can decide if it’s missing anything. When you feel like you could benefit from some new equipment and you have the funds available, start shopping.
If you went with the essentials listed above, here are a few good add-ons:
- Adjustable dumbbells
- Kettlebells
- A pull-up bar
- Cardio equipment, such as a treadmill or a stationary bike
- Medicine balls
- Shelves or cubbies for accessories like shoes, wraps, and gloves.
5. Safety Guide: Don’t Let Your Gym Become Cluttered
When you buy more equipment for your garage gym, it’s important to remember that your space is limited. If your garage gym turns into a cluttered mess it will be more difficult and dangerous to get a good workout.
Keep your gym’s available space in the back of your mind as you shop for more equipment. Whenever you’re in doubt about whether something would fit, you’re better off not buying it.
One thing you can do is cycle equipment in and out of your garage based on the type of workout you want to do.
You’ll still need space somewhere in your home for any equipment you take out, though, and this only works with smaller equipment that you can move easily.
You wouldn’t want to frequently move 300 pounds of weights or an elliptical machine in and out of your DIY gym.
Is a Garage Gym Worth It?
Since you know what kind of work will go into your garage gym, you can decide if building one the DIY way is right for you.
It’s certainly a major project that requires an upfront investment. Also, no matter how nice your garage gym is, it won’t have as much different or high-quality equipment as a typical gym would.
Still, there’s nothing like being able to wake up, walk 30 feet and get your workout done at a budget home gym you’ve built exactly how you want.
Everyone who has a garage gym appreciates the convenience factor as well as how much money they save.
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August 25, 2018
What is the Purpose of a Pergola and Why are Pergolas so Popular?

You’re ready to make some changes to the backyard landscaping. One of the things you want to do is add an outdoor space that’s shaded and provides a nice place to sit and enjoy the grounds.
Some friends suggest adding a gazebo, while others think a pergola would work nicely.
Before deciding, it pays to learn more about pergolas, how they can be used, and why they are so popular today.
What Exactly is a Pergola? What is its Purpose?
A pergola is an open structure consisting of parallel poles or pillars supporting a roof made using cross-beams. Some designs include a lattice as part of the roof structure.
The purpose of a pergola is to provide an open feel while also creating the perfect semi-shady spot for relaxing and aesthetics. A popular use of a pergola is to arrange a series of hanging baskets of plants or run ivy or other woody vines up and over the structure.
Pergolas can also serve another purpose such as sitting areas, passages to other garden areas, or a shaded place to walk.
How are Pergolas Different From a Gazebo?
There are three main differences between pergolas and gazebos. One has to do with the shape. A pergola is typically square or rectangular. By contrast, the typical gazebo is either round or shaped like an octagon.
A typical wooden gazebo.
The roofs of the two structures are also different. A gazebo will have an enclosed shelter, while the pergola sports a top like an open grid. In a sense, the pergola doesn’t have a proper roof, just a series of cross-beams that may or may not be filled in somewhat with the use of lattice panels.
A third difference is how gazebos and pergolas are used in landscaping. Most people think of gazebos as structures that stand away from the house and focus on the grounds. Pergolas may be constructed at one end of a patio or a deck.
They can also be used to create a vine-covered passage leading to some other element of the landscape, including a gazebo.
Are There Different Pergola Styles or Purposes?
The basic pergola design lends itself well to various types of customization. One approach is to leave the structure completely open. However, it’s easy enough to dress this design for special occasions using more extended sections of cloth across one side, along each pillar, or to hang gracefully between the cross-beams.
The open design also works well when the plan is to train ivy to run up the pillars and eventually fill in a lot of the space in between the cross beams.
Louvers are another way to add more spice to the pergola design. This works exceptionally well with a rectangular shape since it’s possible to mount the louvered doors in shutter fashion along the longer sides.
Doing so makes it easy to partially open or close the sides if you like. This design works incredibly well if you want to control the breeze entering the structure or set up a candlelight dinner and still have a little privacy.
No rule says a pergola has to include a flat roof. So, for example, you could use metal posts or vinyl pillars to support a sloping grid for the roof.
It’s possible to include softer rather than hard lines overhead, something that may work perfectly with the style of your home.
What Makes a Pergola So Popular?
Pergolas are popular around the world. One of the reasons is that they are so versatile in terms of purpose. It’s easy enough to dress the space for special occasions like holiday parties. They are also ideal for having some type of private celebration, like a wedding anniversary for two.
The relatively easy construction also makes a pergola a popular way to create an outdoor living space. Pergola frameworks are even available in kits today.
It’s possible to use a kit and have the structure finished in as little as a day. That means you can begin enjoying the space almost immediately.
As a design element to the landscaping, pergolas are versatile enough to fit into just about any plan. Take cues from the style of your home, and it will look as if the pergola was part of the original landscaping plan.
Once it’s up, you can use it as the perfect place to relax after work, catch a breeze during the day, or just have some quiet time. Along with being your own private sanctuary, using the space to display your favorite potted and hanging plants is a great approach.
Are There Advantages to Adding a Pergola to Your Deck, Backyard, or Landscape?
Many of the benefits of pergolas have to do with adding function to your landscape. They certainly create spaces that you can use for sitting comfortably outdoors. In terms of appearance, they provide a finished look to the space as well as visual interest.
If you are renting or you don’t want a permanent pergola, there are pre-fabricated options available.
Another significant advantage with pergolas is the impact on your property values. The right type of pergola will increase the market value of the property.
That may not be important right now, but it will make a difference in the price you can get if you decide to sell at some point.
Never overlook the benefit of having a private space outdoors. You can easily design a pergola using lattice panels or louvered doors to allow you the best of both worlds. Open the panels or doors when you want to have more of an open feel. When you are in the mood for privacy but still want to be outdoors, close them.
You can’t go wrong by adding a pergola to your landscaping. Whether you have a large expanse of backyard or want to dress in a smaller area, it’s easy to scale a pergola to an outdoor living space, so it’s a perfect fit.
August 24, 2018
Fall Yard Clean Up Guide and Checklist

With autumn, you say goodbye to summer but also the many different landscaping tasks that you’ve been performing over the last six months or so.
But before you kick back, put your feet up and enjoy the fall, there’s some work to be done to ensure that your yard looks great throughout the winter and is primed for next year as well.
With that in mind, here’s a checklist of 17 crucial fall yard clean up items.
1. Inspect Your Property
This is a great time to perform a seasonal inspection. Walk from one corner of your property all the way around until you reach it again.
Take your time, and let your eyes scan as high as the roof, as low as the soil bed beneath the grass and along the periphery as well.
Make a note of anything that needs tending.
2. Collect Debris
Consider this the first pass over your yard in terms of getting rid of any rubbish or waste.
Don’t worry about anything small enough to rake. We’ll get to that.
This is your chance to haul away trash and determine what to do with those eyesores and other items that have had you procrastinating.
3. Clean Out the Gutters
Clear out leaves and other debris from gutters and gutter guards. Ensure that downspouts are clear and allow water to pass easily through to drainage.
During your fall clean up is also a good time to clean the curb-facing aspect of your gutters with a household grease-cutter and some rags.
Leaves can be tossed to the ground if you’ll be raking soon unless they’re particularly wet, smelly or otherwise nasty.
4. Collect Leaves and Mulch

Leaves can suffocate your lawn, so you’ll want to collect them, but you also don’t have to trash them.
A cheap, but shabby looking compost bin.
You can shred them, and then, use the mulch you’ve created for flower beds, shrubs and so forth.
Another option is to create compost for next year.
You can even create your own compost bin using some inexpensive wire fencing or old pallets.
Flip and poke each week with a pitchfork to achieve that perfect mix.
Or, for an easier and faster method of generating compost, get a compost tumbler.
5. Prune Trees and Shrubs
If you have branches you want to train, this is the right time of year to do it.
Taking Care of Dead Limbs
It’s also the appropriate season to prune dead limbs and spent stems. These branches will blow onto your yard eventually anyway, and it helps growth avoid disease and be healthier in general throughout the colder months.
6. Till Vegetable Gardens
Fall cleanup is a perfect time to prepare your vegetable gardens for next year. Remove all debris, till the soil and add 2 to 4 inches of new material as needed.
Finish this process by applying a layer of compost that will nurture the soil throughout winter and have it primed for spring.
7. Aerate Your Lawn
Aeration is a very important step that avoids pooling water and helps to ensure that critical nutrients reach grass roots.
You’ll want to use a walk-behind aerator for larger properties and a garden fork for those smaller, harder-to-reach areas.
As a rule of thumb, you want soil plugs that are about 2.5 to 3 inches deep so that they will have broken down by the time spring rolls around.
8. Fertilize the Lawn
Feeding your lawn in fall in order to ensure that it stays fed throughout winter is crucial to priming it for spring. Be mindful that this applies to the grass itself; you’ll actually want to cut back on fertilization of perennials in late summer.
For the lawn, most experts recommend a fertilizer mix high in phosphorous in order to encourage winter root growth and to ensure a lush, green color as soon as possible.
9. Perform a Final Mow and Trim
There’s no perfect time for a final mow. It can vary from one area and even one year to the next.
The final mow should occur during the late fall when the grass stops growing, or when the temperature drops if you’re unsure.
Drop your blades to one of the lower settings. Mow once. Wait a week and mow again.
It’s advised to cut the grass short since disease can’t thrive with a shorter grass blade, but avoid going shorter than 1.25 inches because grass creates most of the food it consumes at the top of the blade.
10. Rake Over Bald Spots
After your final-final mow, if you have any bald spots, you’ll want to rake over them, and while you can do this with grass clippings, it’s even more effective to use a lawn repair kit, which will have a grass seed mixture to spread out over those areas.
Watering Freshly Seeded Lawns
Water as instructed, and be ready for a full lawn next year.
11. Conduct Maintenance for Irrigation Systems
Whether you have an in-ground sprinkler system or drip-irrigation tubing, this is the time to perform maintenance as well as any needed repairs.
You’ll also want to dry out these systems to avoid freezing.
12. Divide, Cut Back and Transplant Perennials
Be mindful that you want to cut back on fertilization for perennials in later summer in order to avoid unnecessary leaf growth.
The beginning of fall is when you’ll want to remove tired perennials as well as any slugs and snails that are feeding on them.
You’ll also want to trim any spent foliage all the way to the soil, and crowded plants, particularly tuberous ones, should be divided every three years or so.
Fall is also a good time to transplant; the ideal time is three to four weeks before the ground freezes.
13. Plant New Shrubs and Fall Annuals
This is also the time of year to plant any new shrubs as well as fall annuals. The reason we choose fall for new shrubs is that the soil is ideally cool and moist for the necessary root growth.
Dig a hole that is twice the diameter but about 1.5 inches less deep so that the root is exposed that much above the ground.
14. Mulch Young Plants
Any newly planted foliage should have a layer of mulch applied. If you have young plants, then as with your gardens, till the soil, add 2 to 4 inches of soil as necessary and then, place a layer of mulch.
15. Protect Cold-Sensitive Plants
Any cold-sensitive plants regardless of their age should have their soil lightly tilled, material added as necessary and a layer of mulch applied.
It may also be necessary depending on the plant to wrap them in a cold barrier, which prevents freezing and other damage from the elements.
The degree to which you wrap the plants in cloth and plastic will depend on the severity of your local climate.
16. Winterize Your Deck
Prep your deck by removing any items that are a high wind risk. It’s generally recommended that you pressure wash once a year.
Pressure washing for the best clean
Pressure washing can damage a deck if performed incorrectly, so if you’re unsure, hire a professional.
You can also use a treatment to avoid mildew and other growth over the fall, and it’s recommended to re-stain a deck once every five years or when it visibly requires it.
17. Clean Tools and Store Them

Last but not least, clean all of your yard tools, dry them and store them in a dry place.
It’s particularly important to winterize gas lawnmowers in order to maximize their lifespans.
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Indoor fall maintenance is also important to help you get your home ready for the upcoming change in season.
If you have finished all of the tasks on the outdoor checklist above, next tackle some indoor fall maintenance items that will help prepare your home for winter weather conditions!
Feel free to share this infographic on your own website or blog.
August 22, 2018
30 Awesome Garage Workshop Ideas
If you are not utilizing your garage, what are you doing? If you are like many people, your garage’s only function is to harbor junk and dust.
There are an array of garage transformations that will ensure you are using your garage to its full potential. I’ve listed some links after each workshop idea so you can get more information if you are ready to get started today. If you know of any good resources for garage workshops, please let me know.
1. Garage Gym
Although it is one of the more basic ideas, turning your garage into a gym can be undeniably beneficial. A treadmill, a weight bench, a few barbells, and a radio and you are on your way to that dream body.
Face it, it will be cheaper than paying for a gym membership and you won’t feel ashamed when you skip a day… or six… because nobody will know!
2. Woodworking

Whether you are already an expert woodworker or just a person that is interested in adopting it as a new hobby, a woodworking garage workshop will always be an interesting option. Chances are, you will have most of the basic tools and supplies needed for woodworking already in your garage.
But, make sure you don’t forget safety! Despite having your own home workshop, you will still need gloves, safety glasses, and most importantly, your attentiveness while operating saws and other power tools!
3. Electronics Repair

Have a knack for phones, tablets, and computers? One great garage workshop idea is to turn your garage into your own electronics repair workshop! With a clean work area and the proper tools, there is no doubt that this would be lucrative.
Putting out advertisements for your services could end up making you quite a bit of money on the side, especially from those in your neighborhood. Conversely, you could also purchase discounted electronics that need repair and resell them for a profit!
- Setting Up the Perfect Electronics Workplace
- How to set up an electronics lab/workshop at home
4. Lawnmower Repair

If you have knowledge in repairing lawnmowers and other lawn care equipment, turn your garage into a reparation studio for them. The requirements are quite minimal; a few jacks, a couple basic tool sets, and just a little willpower.
In most places, lawn care equipment is only used seasonally, but there are ways to make this a year-long venture. Often, if it is nearing the end of the season and a person’s equipment breaks down they will sell it as nonfunctional or simply throw it out. In these cases, there is an opportunity for profit.
Likewise, keeping an eye out for cheap, repairable equipment throughout the lawn care season will ensure that you have something to do during off-season.
5. Automobile Repair and Restoration

Working on cars is a pastime for many people. Whether it be on personal, family, or neighbor’s vehicles, if you possess the skill then put it to good use!
Turning your garage into a functional vehicle repair workshop is simpler than you might think. Of course, there are limitations to what you will be able to do unless you have an above average sized garage. But, with car jacks, a couple of appropriate toolsets, and a surplus of supplies such as oil and transmission fluid, you will have the ability to make many different repairs.
Get an air compressor and tire plug kit and you will be able to offer temporary fixes for tires as well!
6. Planting Area

While I do not foresee anybody turning their entire garage into a complete greenhouse, there is another way to make your garage an amazing place to grow flowers, fruits, and vegetables.
Check online or make a call to your local farm store to learn what plants will thrive in your region and various seasonal points. With a few pop-up greenhouses (sold at most farm supply stores), plant heat lamps, and the basics (such as soil, plant food, and pots), you will be able to grow the appropriate plants all year long.
Whether you are doing it for profit or for your own relaxation, a garage planting workshop is a great idea.
7. Game Room

This option is just as unique as you! No matter what sort of games came to mind when you read the title, it is almost guaranteed that your garage can be transformed into a wonderful place to partake in them.
For example, if you would like an old-school arcade feel, start actively seeking functional arcade games online or locally. Add a popcorn machine for even more authenticity.
Likewise, if you are a fan of card games, a nice card table set, and appropriate decor can turn your garage into the weekend poker hot spot. The opportunities are nearly endless!
8. Man Cave
Turning your garage into your ultimate get-a-way spot is a no-brainer. With just a little work, you can have a nice relaxation spot that you feel confident in showing to your buddies.
Put in a couch, mini-fridge, and a flat-screen TV for the ultimate experience. Add decor that showcases your personality such as sports memorabilia or catchy signs to make it all your own. After all, it will be your man cave, so you-it-up!
9. Furniture Repair
You would be surprised how many people are looking for someone to fix their furniture. If you can manage this, why not turn your garage into your own furniture repair workshop?
Often times, people will need assistance in the realm of the reattachment of the legs of furniture or even just furniture assembly. This means that you will not need any super specified tools or equipment for this.
Create a nice, clean work area that you can be proud of and the advertise your services for the best outcome.
10. Furniture Restoration

If you are not a fan of building your own furniture but enjoy sanding, painting, and reupholstering, creating a place to restore furniture could very well be the best option for you.
If you are looking for a cheap alternative, some sandpaper and a basic paint brush set could start you off on the right foot. On the other hand, if you are looking to hit the ground running then purchasing a sander, a surplus of various paints and brushes, and a few different fabrics can assure that you are ready to restore virtually anything.
This can be a personal venture in which you find and restore furniture for personal use or to flip, or you can offer your services to others.
- Setting up a home furniture workshop
- Restoring an Art Deco Desk
11. Knife Making

As a trade that can be passed down from generation to generation, knife making is without a doubt interesting. Even if you have no experience in making knives, it is a rather simple process.
You will need quite a bit of equipment though! A drill press, belt sander, and a place to heat treat the knives are necessary to have the best experience. Turning your garage into a knife making workshop is a great talking point and will provide you with many opportunities to show off your work.
As a plus, there is a large market for handmade knives, especially if you have the ability to personalize them.
12. Art Studio
This is especially great if your garage has windows or if you are comfortable creating art with the garage door opened to let in natural lighting.
Having a place specifically for all your art supplies will make creating an even more pleasurable experience. Likewise, you can display all your works around you for reference and inspiration.
13. Glass Blowing
A glass blowing workshop can be another great use of your garage space. The most important aspect is making sure that you have the correct equipment, such as a proper furnace.
Make sure that you can safely transform your garage into a glass blowing workshop beforehand, otherwise, you might be left with a partially functional workshop!
14. Metalworking
Metalworking can take a few forms, so there are various necessities for what you might be interested in. As with most of the aforementioned options, you will need to make sure you have a clean and proper workstation to avoid injury.
Tables and shelves that can withstand repeated contact with metal and high-quality tools that will be able to hold up to constant metal work are required. Otherwise, creativity and necessity will define what metalworking means to you.
15. Appliance Repair
Much like all reparation workshops, an appliance repair workshop is extremely versatile. If you have the knowledge and skill set to repair appliances such as washers, dryers, and dishwashers, then it could be lucrative for you to transform your garage into a place where you can comfortably work on them.
With basic tools and plenty of room, you could be on your way to becoming the go-to guy in your neighborhood when someone needs an appliance repaired. As an added bonus, you can also purchase and flip repairable appliances.
16. Recycling Sorting and Staging
Even though the goal is to rid your garage of trash, creating your own recycling sorting studio is a beneficial way to surround yourself with garbage. Color-coded trash bins and gloves are all that will be required.
This is especially useful in an area that does not get recycling pick up. Let your neighbors know that you will be offering a recycling drop off for their trash as well.
Once you have acquired trash, sort it into the proper bins and then take it off to your nearest recycling plant. You’re giving a meaning to your time through helping the environment.
17. Temporary Animal Shelter
Far too often, animals are lost or abandoned and are left wandering the streets. Creating a place where you can harbor these animals until they can be safely returned to their owners or taken to an animal shelter is a very compassionate way to transform your garage.
Setting up kennels and having a supply of animal food are the only bare essentials for this awesome garage transformation. Leashes, specific feeding and water bowls, toys, litter, and litter boxes will also be extremely helpful.
18. Animal Daycare
Turning your garage into an animal daycare can be both fulfilling and profitable. Much like the temporary animal shelter option, the garage animal daycare will require kennels of various sizes, but most pet owners will leave specific food and toys for their pet.
Those that are going on vacation, getting their house renovated, or otherwise need pet care are not uncommon. Plus, you will get to play with all the animals!
19. Animal Grooming
Making a few additions to your garage can ensure that you have a fully functional and great animal grooming station. A bathing area would be the first priority, followed by a station where fur clean up would be as hassle-free as possible.
Couple those with a great grooming set and you will be on your way to making the pets in your neighborhood as cute and comfortable as possible.
20. Test Kitchen
Having the ability to cook well is an amazing skill, but sometimes it causes more disruption than necessary. If you like to try different recipes, a test kitchen is for you.
In order to turn your garage into a place where you can cook freely, you will need to make certain that all electrical needs are met. Then, add a stove, refrigerator, and shelving. Once all appliance and storage needs are met, you can begin using your test kitchen for the uninterrupted cooking sessions.
21. Photography Studio
Backdrops, a quality camera, and sufficient lighting are all it takes to turn your garage into a photography workshop. Make sure there is a designated area where you can display your previous photos!
While your garage will be your primary workspace and hold all of your equipment, there is no limit to where your photography takes place.
22. Photography Darkroom
If you have the ability to block all light from entering your garage, you have the ability to create your own darkroom workshop.
Developing your own pictures from photographic film and paper is as interesting as it is pleasing.
23. Online Sales
eBay, Etsy, and Amazon are all places where you can post and sell items online. Be it yard sale finds or items that you create yourself, you will undoubtedly require a place dedicated to conducting business.
Having an organized workshop will ensure that your endeavor runs smoothly. A few additions that will help is putting up shelving and storage for the items you are selling, file cabinets for your records, and an area for your desktop or laptop.
24. Couponing
One of the most lucrative things you can do in life is couponing. While you can save a few bucks skimming through the Sunday paper, if you are looking to do it right then you will need a large area to work.
Transforming your garage into a couponing workshop is simple, easy, and frugal! Organization is key, so have several different folders as well as a place to organize the folders. Likewise, create a spot with sufficient room to lay the coupons out and cut them.
25. Library
Books, without a doubt, take up an immense amount of room in your home. This is especially true if you are an avid reader. Transforming your garage into a place where you can store your books will be a great use of space.
Despite the necessity of shelving, you can make additions that fit your liking. You can also apply carpeting or a nice rug and a couch to make it feel as comfortable as possible.
If you want it to have a super genuine feel, demand that if anybody else wishes to utilize your garage library, they must be quiet!
26. Collection Display
All avid collectors wish for the best possible place to display their treasures. Turning your garage into the perfect spot is easier than you may think!
Essentially, it will depend on what your collection consists of, but starting with large display cases and/or shelves will be your first step. Then, you can organize and display according to your own wishes.
27. Home Office
Sometimes, a home may not have enough available rooms for you to have your own home office. If this is the case, but you find yourself bringing your work home with you more often than not, a garage transformation should be in your near future.
A desk, computer, filing cabinet, and storage area are all you will need to make sure that you will have the room, as well as the privacy, you need to complete your work at home.
28. Home Theater
Few things are as relaxing as watching a movie in your own home. If you crave the theater view without the poor theater experience, your garage is the perfect place for an in-home theater.
There are a few options, such as a large television or projector and theater seats or couches, but no matter what you choose the premise remains the same. Add a popcorn machine and movie posters for a more authentic feel.
29. Bar

What could be greater than having your very own bar? Utilizing your garages space by creating an at-home bar could end up saving you (and your friends!) a ton of money on social drinking.
With just the addition of a counter bar and your favorite liquors, you are almost ready to throw a party for all of your friends. Complete your bar with a refrigerator/freezer combo, adequate seating, and plenty of bar decor.
30. Play Room

We all know that sometimes, the kids come first. If your children seem to be running out of room, or you just want to give them their own space, transforming your garage into a fun play place could be the right idea for you.
You have complete control over what you want to be included. For example, a small slide or a ball pit can make the room feel more like a fun getaway rather than a place to play with toys.
So Remember….
No matter what your desires or necessities are, you are sure to find a way to use your garage to your advantage and not just for storage.
August 18, 2018
Best Electric Pressure Washer Reviews of 2022
When regular elbow grease from scrubbing by hand just won’t do, you need to get a power cleaner. These machines jump-start your spring chores by tackling tough jobs like mildew, mold, grime, and baked-on gunk. Below, we review some of the top models and then reveal our pick for the best electric pressure washer.
Quick Comparison
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For me, there is no other way to clean my deck, sidewalks, and driveway than using a pressure cleaner.
Below are my reviews for the top five electric power cleaners, and they each come with amazing features.
#1. Sun Joe SPX3000 Electric Pressure Cleaner
Homeowners short on space who still want plenty of features and options will love using this Sun Joe SPX3000 Electric. It’s the smallest of these machines, so it will fit nicely into a little garage or utility room.
Review:
With its 2030 PSI and 14.5 amp powered motor, there’s a lot packed into this little green cleaning machine. You get 5 Quick-Connect spray tips that fit right over the wand and deliver a spray that goes from 0 degrees up to 40 degrees, plus a soap tip. These variations will allow testing of different configurations to best clean each surface you have at your home. There’s not one, but two 0.9 liter detergent tanks onboard to store different types of cleaners.
This Sun Joe model also has a TSS (total stop system) feature to automatically shut off the pump when the trigger isn’t engaged. That helps save energy. The hose for the wand is 20″ in length, while the electric cord is 35′ and has a safety plug. After the easy assembly, just turn the dial to “on” and it starts right up, ready to clean your outdoors with ease.
While this unit is small and mighty, it also has negatives we don’t care for. Probably the biggest con is that Sun Joe has created its own M22 adapter which is found on their products and only their products. That means it doesn’t fit standard accessories.
Buyers will have to find a way to work around that. Also, the lower price is reflected in a lower quality of parts and makes the machine not as durable, with a tendency to leak. The quality control isn’t as strong as it should be. But overall, for those with basic cleaning jobs who already have Sun Joe accessories, we’d recommend this pressure washer as a useful addition to your outdoor cleaning repertoire.
https://youtu.be/H9D_HNA8IMM
SPX3000 Pressure Washer Pros:
Comes with soap spray tip
Easy assembly
Most affordable model
SPX3000 Pressure Washer Cons:
Tendency to leak
Low-quality parts
M22 adapter doesn’t fit accessories
#2. Sun Joe SPX4000 Electric Cleaner
The Sun Joe SPX4000 has stellar reviews from over 200 buyers, and it’s easy to see why. With its powerful 14.5 Amp motor, 2030 PSI washing, and easily portable design, you’ll be able to quickly assemble this machine and use it within minutes of receiving it.
Review:
This little green cleaning machine has many of the same features as the Sun Joe SPX3000, but with a completely different look. It has wider dimensions and more stability, with the large wheels and base. This prevents it from tipping over easily.
It has the same 2030 PSI, and there are two different options, allowing you to use the 2030 PSI or the 1450 PSI, depending on the job. It also has 5 quick-connect spray tips that go from 0 degrees up to 40 degrees, plus soap.
Having a range of options increases the fun of using your machine. This electric cleaner will tackle light, medium, or heavy-duty cleaning tasks quickly and simply. Key features include the output hose, which measures 20′ in length, plus there’s an extension wand.
There is a 35′ cord with a safety plug at the end to prevent electrical shorts. We’re also impressed with the generously sized 54.1 fluid ounce detergent tank. Add specially formulated soap and clean grime quickly. The total stop system is nice for its automatic pump shut off, too.
As for negatives, this has the same as the Sun Joe SPX3000, in that the M22 fittings only go with Sun Joe accessories. Unfortunately, the parts quality control on these models is not as good as others in similar price ranges, with plastic motor housings and flimsy connectors. You’ll need to purchase extra parts more frequently than other models.
We do like this model’s good features for lighter or simpler outdoor cleaning tasks.
https://youtu.be/hiEHwWbU1Mk
SPX4000 Pressure Washer Pros:
Lightweight
5 spray tips
Total Stop System included
SPX4000 Pressure Washer Cons:
Plastic motor housing
Need to buy parts
M22 adapter doesn’t fit accessories
#3. Stanley SLP2050 Electric Pressure Washer
Stanley has created a new and flexible machine with the SLP2050 model. It can sit on its stable mobile cart or detach for portability. With plenty of features and accessories, you’ll be able to use this washer for any outdoor cleaning job.
Review
The best feature of the Stanley SLP2050 is its two-part system. You can detach the washer from the cart. It weighs about 35 pounds and can be carried up a ladder, put in a car trunk, or held in your hand while you wash a car. It comes with a decent 2050 PSI, as well as professional grade brass garden hose connectors.
The fittings are 22mm to fit additional accessories. You also get a 25′ hose, and there’s a 35′ power cord. There are five quick change (QC) nozzles, from high pressure to fan spray, plus a soap nozzle. It comes with a 48-ounce detergent tank. This washer uses 1.4 gallons per minute with its 14 amp motor.
There aren’t too many negatives with this top-rated unit. It does require assembly, which takes about 15 minutes or so and you’ll need a screwdriver. Also, while the hose is nice and long for reachability, it does have the tendency to kink.
In addition, only lower flow heads can use soap. But overall, despite these cons, it’s an excellent pressure cleaning machine for your home.
https://youtu.be/ta-ISRCJK7Q
SLP2050 Electric Pressure Washer Pros:
Both cart and stand-alone use
Lightweight for maneuverability
Hose is 25 ft long
SLP2050 Electric Pressure Washer Cons:
Have to assemble
Hose prone to kinking
No soap dispensing with some heads
#4. PowRyte Elite Electric Power Washer
When it comes to size and power, this PowRyte Elite model is the most heavy duty and blows the competition away. Even though it has the highest price tag, you get a lot of power for your dollar.
Review:
It gives you a whopping 4000 PSI water power, using 3 gallons per minute to deliver the highest power for the toughest cleaning. When using the 20′ foot hose, there’s a retractable reel for easy storage. Combined with the 35-foot cord, the reach of this unit is extraordinary. It comes with five interchangeable tips to allow you to address a wide range of surfaces. At one end is the 0-degree nozzle to focus on areas that are generally out of reach. At the other end is the 40-degree tip which will clean windows and screens.
There’s also a detergent option to increase the cleaning power from the onboard detergent tank, and a total stop system automatic pump shut-off feature. The 35′ cord has a safety GFCI plug to stay firmly in the outlet. The brass connector fittings are perfect for adding accessories from different brands. Despite its size, this model weighs about 23 pounds. You can easily wheel it where you need to go.
This PowRyte model does have the biggest price tag of these models, but you get excellent features. It also has a bulkier design which is more difficult to maneuver into position.
The hose itself is heavy and bulky. You’ll feel the weight after using it for only a few minutes. It delivers high pressure but adds bulk and weight. Overall, though, we highly recommend this electric cleaner for tackling even the dirtiest outdoor jobs.
PowRyte Washer Pros:
Has 4000 PSI power
Five interchangeable tips
Automatic pump shut-off
PowRyte Washer Cons:
Bulky in design
Heavy telescoping hose
Most expensive model
#5. XtremepowerUS XP3000S Electric
There’s plenty of power and strength packed into a little space within this XtremepowerUS XP3000S. It’s got better parts and a larger size than the Sun Joe SPX3000, but is the least expensive model on this list.
Review:
The XtremepowerUS XP3000S comes with 2000 PSI, three spray tips (including 0 degrees, 25 degrees, and detergent), a good 20′ hose with a retractable reel, and a 33′ long plug cord.
Requiring minimal assembly, you can have this up and running in moments of receiving it. Put special detergent into the tank and attach the soap spray tip for heavier pressure cleaning.
The red 0-degree tip will tackle tougher jobs like mildew, mold, and grime. This is one of the smaller units, so it’s easy to wheel around to your outdoor cleaning jobs. The hose connector and wand can also fit multiple accessories.
While we recommend the XtremepowerUS, it does have a few negatives. The PSI is the lowest of all of the models, so if you are wanting max power, this might not be for you.
It also isn’t made by a top brand like Sun Joe or Stanley, so you don’t get the same warranty or guarantee with it. There are only 3 spray tips, which is reflected in the price, too.
This is also a heavy machine for its size, at 40 pounds. That weight offers stability, but it could be difficult to pull around. In all, we’d recommend this pressure washer for the homeowner who doesn’t have extremely tough or very frequent cleaning jobs but would like a standard model for maintenance washing.
XP3000S Electric Washer Pros:
20 ft hose with retractable reel
3 spray tips
Can spray with detergent
XP3000S Electric Washer Cons:
Has the lowest PSI
No warranty or guarantee
Heavy for its size
Our Choice: The Best Pressure Washer (Electric)
We’ve put these five top rated electric power cleaners through our own personal tests, comparing PSI, durability, stability, features, and performance. With these criteria, the Stanley SLP2050 is our selection for the best electric pressure washer.
What we really love is the fact you can detach the power unit for much more portability than any other model. The cart is also large and stable, and the parts are well made, with brass connector fittings. You’ll have this machine for a long time.
For those on a budget looking for a less expensive electric model, we also recommend the XtremepowerUS XP3000S. It has a lot of features for a budget washer – 2000 PSI, 3 spray tips, a 20′ hose, a 33′ cord, and a detergent tank.
The final score: Either of these two power washers will ensure you’ll have your place cleaned up in no time.
July 29, 2018
Is Dog Urine Killing Your Grass? You Can Fix It.

Bald spots in your lawn are not only unsightly but also discouraging. You’ve put in a lot of work to create that perfect front lawn.
There could be several reasons for the bald spots but in my experience, the number one cause is dog urine. And yes, you could have this problem even if you don’t own a dog!
What Causes Urine Dead Spots?
To see if your bald spots are caused by dog urine examine the areas. Urine burns are easily recognized by a brown dead area of grass surrounded by a healthy green ring.
This is because the dog’s urine contains nitrogen and can act as a fertilizer – hence the bright green ring.
As with most things in life, you can have too much of a good thing. With repeated exposure to urine, the nitrogen becomes too concentrated and kills the grass.
As the owner of both male and female dogs, it is likely the latter that is causing the problem. Males tend to mark thereby dispensing their urine is several places around your yard whereas the squatting female will leave a large pool of urine in one place and “burn” the yard.
It is feasible though that a male dog could be the culprit through repeated marking. However, I think the location would be closer to a shrub or building corner and not as disruptive to your landscaping.
If your home is a dog-free zone you could still have these ugly bald spots. Neighbors walking their dogs are generally focused on picking up poop and may not be concerned with a little sprinkle here and there.
The problem is that the urine smell serves as a beacon to all the other dogs who pass by your yard.
How to Correct It
You may think that simply adding some grass seed is the answer. But before you can do that you need to eliminate the high nitrogen levels in the soil.
Step 1:
Remove the dead grass from the affected area using a spade or shovel. You’ll need to cut out the affection section plus a bit of the underlying soil.
Step 2:
Replace the missing grass with some good quality topsoil. Spread a thin layer of grass seed into the soil and run over it with a rake. I recommend putting a thin layer of straw over the area to keep birds and other animals from feasting on your grass seed.
Step 3:
Water thoroughly and continue to water twice a day. You should begin to see evidence of growth in about 7-10 days.
Avoiding Dog Urine Lawn Burns in the Future
Once you repair your lawn how can you reduce the chance of future urine spots in your yard? Outside of building a wall, here are a few steps you can take:
If you are a dog owner, create a specific area for your pet that includes gravel or other non-grass surfaces. If you do not have that option, apply water to your dog’s urination spot. Diluting the urine dilutes the nitrogen and minimizes the impact to your grass.
Do you have neighborhood dogs that frequently urinate on your lawn? If so you can try the same steps.
Can you apply gravel or mulch to your property that borders the street or sidewalk? If you have a sprinkler system run the sprinklers more often so that the urine is diluted.
There are types of grasses that are more impervious to urine. If you have Bermuda or Kentucky Bluegrass you may want to consider switching to either Fescue or Ryegrass.
There are products made to give to your dog to help neutralize the nitrogen in your dog’s urine. I have never tried them and there are mixed reviews on the internet. Personally, I feel the risk to my dog is too great to try them.
While dead spots in your yard are a nuisance they can be remedied with a little effort and a lot of patience.
July 16, 2018