Common garage organization problems solved

(NC)-With the warmer weather approaching, many Canadians will begin de-cluttering and cleaning their homes. For many, the garage becomes the catch-all for clutter and is often neglected during the spring cleaning blitz. To help make it easier for homeowners to get the garage organized, the storage and organization team at Canadian Tire has the following common problems and solutions:

Problem: How to create additional storage space in the garage

Solution: Assess the entire garage for places where additional space can be maximized. For example, the ceiling can easily be converted into valuable storage space. Look for ceiling storage units as well as racks that can be used for ladders, tools or seasonal accessories, such as folding patio chairs and umbrellas. Garage ceiling hooks are also a great idea for storing hockey sticks, skiis or extension cords. Ceilings are a great place to keep items still visible and accessible, yet tucked away, reducing overall garage clutter.

Problem: Clutter in the garage such as gardening tools, sporting equipment and kids toys

Solution: Categorize all of the different equipment in your garage into piles by type (gardening, kid's toys, tools etc.). Once you are able to see the type and amount of equipment in each category it will be much easier to purchase the most appropriate bin or storage tote to contain these items. Choose a store like Canadian Tire that has everything from heavy duty tool cabinets to see-through totes for easy identification.

Tip: Try to keep the kids sporting equipment and toys at a level that is within their reach and more importantly far away from any dangerous equipment.

Problem: Where to store and easily access bicycles

Solution: Bicycles can take up valuable floor space so choose a system that is specifically designed to get bikes off the floor, secure and easily accessible. The Mastercraft Bike Lift eliminates heavy lifting by raising and lowering bicycles against the garage wall with the touch of a hand, making it easy to access the bikes at any time.