When you need to upgrade your garage shelving but are unsure where to start, this BiGDUG Helpful Buying Guide will help you understand what to decide on the best garage shelving type, size, and configuration for your specific needs. Having the perfect shelving for your garage workspace can make a world of difference to your organisation and productivity levels. flooring for your situation! Learn which ones are ideal for your situation with our Garage Shelving Buying Guide!
Best Shelving Type for a Garage
There are several types of garage shelving available to choose from. Each type offers its pros and cons. Which is most suitable for your space will depend on your needs. Within each type, you will find unique characteristics that will cater to different storage requirements and preferences. All shelving types are perfect for storing garage essentials such as tools, equipment, supplies, and seasonal items, to keep your space organised all year round.
Freestanding Shelving
Freestanding shelves are much more dynamic compared to wall-mounted shelving. They aren’t fixed which allows them to be moved as and when needed to continue providing storage in different garage layouts! Great for heavier items too since they are more stable and don’t rely on the quality of a wall’s construction. There is also a lot more variation within this type of shelving from sizes to weight capacities and materials used. Freestanding shelving takes up floor space but takes advantage of vertical space making it a popular garage shelving type.
Corner Shelving
Corner shelving is designed to utilise awkward corner spaces within the garage. They are available as wall-mounted and freestanding solutions and provide reliable storage in previously unused areas. They’re great for storing items that aren’t used as frequently as they can be less accessible than other garage shelving types.
Wall-Mounted Shelving
Great for saving extra floor space by making use of wall space. This type of shelving provides easy access while keeping the floor clear – great for small garages! Please note, that this type requires a sturdy wall for installation and may need a professional to ensure its stability.
Heavy-Duty Shelving
Essential for storing heavier items such as tools, equipment, and more. Designed and manufactured to high-quality and safety standards to ensure stability and longevity. These heavy-duty garage shelving units are usually more expensive and may require more effort to assemble.
Adjustable Shelving
Adjustable shelving provides flexibility not offered by other types. Reposition shelves when needed to accommodate items of varying sizes. Suitable for small and large items. There’s a risk of them becoming unstable, and damaging your garage essentials if the shelves are not installed and fixed properly when changing heights.
Industrial Garage Shelving
Similar to heavy-duty shelving, industrial shelving is designed for maximum durability and strength. Great for more professional garage settings. Built to hold heavy loads and rough use, this type of shelving is incredibly robust. These often cost more and may also need more effort when assembling.
Different Types of Shelving Materials
Metal Shelving
Ideal for heavy-duty storage such as tools, automotive parts, and other large, heavy items. Offers great moisture resistance; especially when made from stainless steel or galvanised steel. This resistance makes them great for colder, damp, or humid garage environments. They are also resistant to rust when coated with a powder or paint finish, which increases their durability and lifespan.
Wood Shelving
Wood is suitable for lighter storage such as gardening supplies and smaller equipment – but be sure to check shelving product descriptions for accurate information on weight capacities! Wood shelving isn’t very moisture-resistant. Treated or sealed wood can offer better moisture protection but not as good as metal or plastic shelving. Wood can warp and rot in damp conditions so they must always be kept dry.
Plastic Shelving
Plastic shelving offers great moisture protection and is a solid solution for more lightweight items, seasonal decorations, and household supplies. Often the cheapest material for shelving and available in various sizes and colours. Plastic is easy to clean and maintain so your garage space can always look tidy. Although not as strong as metal shelving, plastic shelving is a reliable shelving material.
Wire Shelving
Wire shelving is suitable for medium-weight items, boxes, and bins. Typically made of metal with a coating, wire shelving offers good moisture resistance and allows for airflow, which can help prevent mould and mildew buildup. Wire shelves provide a minimalistic, open look, making your garage appear more spacious and organised.
What Shelving Do You Need for Your Garage?
Understanding your storage needs is the first step in choosing the right garage shelving. To make the best choice, start by considering what you will be storing on your shelves. Do you need to organise tools, sporting equipment, supplies, or household items? Each type of item has different requirements for shelving material, weight capacity, and shelving type.
Assessing Your Storage Needs
Figure out the weights of your items, your heaviest and lightest items. This will likely consist of garage essentials such as hand and power tools, gardening supplies, automotive parts, and seasonal decorations. Identifying the range of weights will help you determine the appropriate shelving material and strength needed. For instance, lightweight items can be stored on standard shelves made from plastic or wood, while heavier items may require robust metal or heavy-duty shelving designed to handle significant loads. By taking time to consider the weights, you ensure your shelving provides the necessary support and stability.
Measuring Your Garage Space
Next, you will need to evaluate the available space in your garage. Measure the areas where you plan to install your new garage shelving; include height, width, and depth. Ensure the measurements are accurate so the shelving units fit properly so you can maximise your storage space. Take into account any obstacles that may affect the installation of the shelves such as doors or windows.
Tips for Maximising Space
You can make the most of your garage space by implementing some of these popular techniques:
- Vertical Space: Use vertical space by installing taller shelving units or adding more shelves. This makes use of limited space by saving floor space.
- Corner Units: For awkward corner spaces, corner shelving units ensure all space is used in the corner and doesn’t leave weird, unused space behind.
- Adjustable Shelves: Choose adjustable shelving to always accommodate various item sizes. Having the flexibility provided by them ensures you matter what state or how busy your garage is, you can always modify your shelves to optimise your storage space.
Garage Shelving Accessories & Additional Features
When selecting garage shelving, make sure to consider shelving accessories such as hooks, compartments, and other add-ons that can improve the practicality and organisation. Hooks are ideal for hanging tools and equipment that are used frequently and need to be easily accessible. Compartments can help sort smaller items, so they stay organised and easy to find.
Additionally, design elements like modular configurations allow for customisation and expansion as your storage needs change and evolve. Look for shelving units that offer adjustable heights, enabling you to reconfigure the space to fit various items, from tall gardening tools to short bins. Some shelving units also come with integrated workbenches or tool racks, combining storage with workspace for added convenience.
What is the Best Thickness for Garage Shelves?
The best thickness for garage shelves will depend on the material and load capacity. For example, meta shelves are ideal for heavier loads and benefit from thicker construction for added support. Plastic shelves also gain stability with increased thickness. However, remember that not all shelving units can accommodate different-sized shelving due to their fixings/design and structural limits. Thicker shelves can be cost-effective in the long run by reducing the need for replacements. All shelving units are supplied with the relevant shelving, but if you need extra stability, be sure to reach out to the supplier or ourselves here at BiGDUG when you’re unsure of what shelf thickness size is suitable.
How to Install Garage Shelving?
- Preparation: When installing any type of shelving planning and preparation can go a long way. Gather the necessary tools (most are provided with shelving – refer to instruction manuals for provided equipment) which may include a mallet, drill, anchors, screws, and other bits.
- Safety: Safety equipment such as goggles and gloves may be needed. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure you stay safe.
- Installation: During installation, it is best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the shelves are properly assembled and provide the strength and stability you paid for! Some garage shelving units involve a simple tap-together assembly while others may require more complex steps such as securing shelves to wall studs.
- Extra Stability: Ensure that the shelves are level and securely anchored to the wall for stability. Using the appropriate anchors for your wall type (plasterboard, concrete, etc.) is essential for a secure fit.
Finally, always double-check the weight limits and load capacities to prevent overloading and potential damage.
Can I Install Garage Shelves Myself?
The shelves themselves are usually very straightforward to install. Some may involve tools and others, such as drills and screwdrivers, while others might use simpler methods like snap-together assembly. For example, our very own BiG340 Garage Shelving range involves boltless assembly where you just tap the unit together!
Popular BiGDUG Garage Shelving Units
BiGDUG Garage Heavy-Duty Shelving
Designed to withstand heavy loads, this shelving unit offers easy assembly, versatile storage options, and excellent value. Each shelf supports up to 600kg UDL*, with four adjustable MDF shelves and a powder-coated European steel frame, manufactured to ISO 9001 standards and backed by a five-year warranty. Available in widths up to 2.4m and depths of 450mm or 600mm, this shelving unit provides ample storage capacity. The adjustable levels can be raised or lowered every 50mm without cross-bracing, ensuring productive double-sided access. Enjoy simple boltless assembly and the option to upgrade with large black plastic stacking bins.
BiGDUG Garage 265kg Shelving
Designed for strength and easy assembly, this adjustable shelving unit can support up to 265kg per shelf and 1325kg per bay. The corner unit version holds up to 250kg per shelf and 1250kg per bay, making it versatile for various storage needs. Each unit features five fully adjustable, smooth MDF shelves within a profiled, powder-coated matt black steel frame, ensuring durability and a sleek look. For additional storage, you can upgrade to include heavy-duty storage boxes, ideal for organising tools and other heavier items. If space is a constraint, consider our corner unit option. Features straightforward tap-together assembly.
BiGDUG Garage 175kg Shelving Mega Deals
Save big with BiGDUG Garage Shelving Deals, featuring two-, three-, or four-bay metal shelving units. Each bay supports up to 175kg per shelf (875kg per bay UDL*) with a durable red powder-coated steel frame and under-shelf central support beams. The boltless design ensures easy assembly with a mallet. These high-quality, affordable shelves are perfect for organising a wide range of items, tools, and equipment in any workspace.
BiGDUG Garage 265kg Shelving Mega Deals
This easy-to-assemble unit supports up to 265kg UDL* per shelf (1325kg per bay) and is perfect for organising items in your garage, workshop, or shed. The corner unit holds up to 250kg per shelf (1250kg per bay). Each unit features five fully-adjustable, smooth MDF shelves housed in a durable, powder-coated matt black steel frame.
Customise your storage with free bay connectors, allowing you to attach multiple units. You can build the unit as standard full-height bays or split it into two half-height units to suit your specific needs and space. Reinforced beams provide extreme support and sturdiness, while protective feet keep the frame level.
How to Maintain Garage Shelves?
Carry out regular checks on the condition of your garage shelving. By conducting these checks you can identify and address issues before they become too severe. Regular maintenance is important to keep your garage shelves in top condition. Inspect for wear and tear, loose screws, or signs of rust, and ensure shelves are not overloaded beyond their weight capacity.
When cleaning, depending on the type of material use appropriate cleaning agents: a mild detergent for plastic, a damp cloth for metal (followed by drying to prevent rust), and a wood cleaner for wooden shelves. When unsure how to clean and maintain your shelving, check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
How to Maximise Storage with Garage Shelving?
Once you have your garage shelving installed, you may consider optimising how your items are organised. Several add-ons and accessories are available to complement the shelving. Some examples include…
- Hooks and Pegboards: Install hooks and pegboards on the sides of your shelving units or garage walls to hang tools, hoses, and other equipment.
- Bins and Baskets: Use labelled bins and baskets to keep smaller items organised and easy to find. Clear bins are especially useful for quickly identifying contents.
- Drawer Units: Incorporate drawer units within your shelving for storing smaller tools, screws, and nails. These help keep tiny items in order and easily accessible.
- Shelf Dividers: Use dividers to separate different items on the same shelf, preventing them from mixing and making it easier to maintain order.
Contact Us
When selecting your garage shelving, consider your specific storage needs, the weight and type of items you plan to store, the available space, and the best materials for durability and aesthetics. Here at BiGDUG, we are experts in all things storage. When you need competitively-priced, reliable, high-quality garage shelving, we are here to help! When you need help saving time, space, and money, browse our range of 8,000+ products! Contact us and our friendly customer service team when you need further assistance with your garage shelving or are struggling to choose the perfect shelving unit for your garage space!