2020 has been a strange year, but you don’t need us to tell you that.
COVID-19 and the subsequent social distancing guidelines means homeowners are changing up their lifestyles and routines in ways we’ve never seen before. Despite many industries shutting down, home improvement and construction have actually seen a boost, according to Hubspot. The construction-related industry was the only type of business that saw growth during the height of quarantine. Companies like the Home Depot and Lowe’s saw historic gains in the past several months.
One of the most popular areas of home improvement during this pandemic is the garage. Being stuck at the house has left many homeowners thinking that it’s finally time to organize and makeover their garage. Here are some of the hottest trends for garage improvement in 2020.
1) Custom Garage Doors
Garage doors are a big deal right now. No matter what style of home you have, adding a custom door to the garage can boost the curb appeal of your home and set it apart from your neighbors.
There are tons of options out there. Things like side-opening or barn-door styles can be stylish and functional. You can also add different window configurations or colors. Many newer trends even use stained wood. Decide what works best for your home, and go with it.
2) PVC Slatwall
Slatwall is intended to be a functional addition for storing small items. In the past, they’ve been included in things like workbenches to store tools. Now, it’s becoming more popular to use slatwall throughout the garage.
While it’s not intended to hold heavy items, the benefit of slatwall is it’s highly versatile storage. If over time you don’t like the layout of your wall hangings, you can easily move them around. It can also make your garage look more uniform.
3) Sound Systems
A nice sound system will help you enjoy your time in the garage if you spend any considerable time in it.
These systems can range in price and complexity. If you want to make a full investment, you can add a full automation sound system. These products are usually voice-activated and can control more than just the audio, like lighting, the thermostat, and the garage door opening and closing.
If you’re looking for a simpler option, you can get wall-mounted speakers or a surround sound system. These are a little more budget-friendly and can have the same effect.
4) Windows
Like adding a new garage door, upgrading the natural lighting in garages is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Windows, especially large ones, are a great way to make your space look less like a dungeon and more like a part of the home. The natural light can help you save money on lighting too.
Most people don’t realize that windows can also help increase airflow and natural ventilation. This is important if you’re working on a car or another project that can pollute the air.
One important consideration before adding windows in the Chicagoland area is the weather. According to Weatherspark, the average temperature is around 75-80 degrees. Leaving windows open between May and September will keep your garage cool without costing you anything. In the winter, though, they create a hole in the insulation that can lower the temperature of a normally warmer space.
5) Garage Flooring
New flooring is a great upgrade from the standard gray concrete floors of most garages. Garage floor coatings, such as epoxy and polyurea coats, help protect the concrete surface, while also providing a great look.
Your garage is generally the last room you see when you leave the house and the first thing you see when you return home each day. Using any extra time created by the coronavirus to upgrade your space is a great way to increase your home’s value and set it apart from others in your neighborhood. For more ideas and garage organization tips, visit our blog.
