crw

I need more space.

30 x 24 feet

Mainly for storage, but I do some light car work such as brakes, exhaust etc.

Seeking ideas with regard to

- must haves

- options to consider

simoncpj

High enough ceilings for lifts (so you can both stack and work on cars)

Lift(s)

Epoxy floor with drains so you can use a hose inside and don't need to worry about spills

As many outlets and lights as you can get in there

Place for air compressor and rolled hose mounted on a swing arm at ceiling height

Built in workbench with niche for rolling tool racks next to it and a mud sink at one end

Channel with drain and grate across entire width of door

Fridge for frosty beverages

HVAC appropriate to your region

Nice stereo system

I may have thought about this a bit

PJorgen

Interesting comment about the drains. Where are you located? That seems to be an east coast or mid-west thing, where it freezes outside. In Cali we don't have drains in the garage.

Otherwise I agree, need music, refrigeration, a lift, lots of storage and LIGHTS! Don't underestimate how your vision goes to hell as you get older. Double the number of light fixtures you're planning, then add some more.

Hella-Buggin'

Decent heating and insulation. Maybe even heated floors for the winter. Computer system.

Edgy01

When you lay your slab ensure that you lay some OUTSIDE the stem-wall, to accommodate a small compressor room or shed. Keep the noise of the compressor OUTSIDE the garage itself.

NC 997

You might pick up a copy of this book:

http://www.amazon.com/Build-Dream-Ga.../dp/0760331731

I have a copy. It gives a guy lots of good ideas on what to consider when building a garage.

And this guy can tell you what you might consider:

http://www.askthebuilder.com/271_The..._of_Room.shtml

signature65

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/

Everything you could ask for when it comes to garage ideas and help

PHX 911

Before you put a drain in your garage floor, you better check your local codes - if you plan to get a permit.
It is not uncommon for a drain in a garage to require a grease trap, that requires at least 1 annual inspection (could be more). I don't think you want those bastards visiting every so often.
The best upgrade money is spent making it Bigger.....

No HTwo O

Most local codes I am aware of, don't allow floor drains in the garage. Would be nice, though.

Flat screen HDTV and suround sound.

MikeBat

While some folks may be tired of his ranting, check out Mike Holmes' magazine this month. http://holmesmagazine.com/

It has some good info on garages, all condensed into one article.

utkinpol

4 point lift, _safe_ heater and fan system with pipes for exhaust.
compressor for air driven power tools, gosh, there is a ton of stuff one can put on if space/money allow.

alexb76

Post some pics for OP then... COME ON PPL!

crw

Thanks for the help.

nyca

There was a whole thread on garages, with photos, a few months back.

No HTwo O

Make sure your concrete slab has the proper spec's to support a car lift.