If you love woodworking, you likely spend a ton of time in a garage or a workshop. When you’re just starting out, you may not need to invest in fancy setups. But as time goes on, you’ll find that upgrading your workspace is inevitable.
Below you’ll find three ways that you can upgrade your woodworking workspace in your garage or workshop.
Are you ready? Let’s get started!
1. Choose the right lighting setup
If you don’t have the right type of lights in your workshop/garage, you won’t be able to get a clear view of what you’re working with. You want to illuminate your garage well enough so you eliminate all shadows when doing intricate work like with a lathe. Otherwise, you may find yourself making mistakes that show up in different areas with a better lighting setup.
You can choose a variety of different lights for your garage or workshop. The best setup would be to have a few light sources. For a workshop, I’d recommend 300 lumens per square feet while 50 square feet for a garage. Workshops require more lumens because it’s imperative that you are working in a well-lit place.
2. Treat your floor
Treating your concrete is one of the most effective methods to achieve a professional appearance in your garage or workshop. Concrete sealers offer an affordable solution for protecting your concrete surfaces.
These sealers can be conveniently applied using a paint sprayer, providing a cost-effective option. Renting the necessary equipment or using a roller, if you’re comfortable with a faster application, are viable approaches.
Epoxy is another great option that you can consider for the flooring. Be careful though as many brands will try to pass off their inferior DIY kit to you as a viable option. You are better off getting it installed professionally even if it costs much more.
You won’t be able to compare the cheap option VS it getting installed in the proper manner. Cheap DIY kits are known for peeling after a year or two and a good epoxy installation should last a decade if taken care of.
3. Invest in heating and cooling
If you spend a lot of time working on your woodworking DIY projects, then you know that during the hot and cold months working can be a bit daunting. Your best bet is to insulate your garage or workshop before you move ahead and put any money into heating or cooling.
If you can afford it, your best option by far would be a mini-split system. This way, you can heat and cool your garage/workshop with no issue.
It is imperative that you do have proper ventilation as well in your garage/workshop. If you don’t, all that dust that’s building up in your workshop is going to end up in your lungs!
Another tip is to be aware of portable cooling solutions as they are expensive and not worth their cost. You can utilize a window unit that won’t break the bank and will keep your garage or workshop cool during the summer.
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Wrapping it Up
If you love woodworking, upgrading your workshop can be a great endeavor. Quality of life upgrades will make working easier and you’re not only investing into your hobbies but your workspace as well.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
