Question:
I'm adding a garage to my house and will convert the old two-car garage
into a woodshop. I'm looking for any good ideas that others may have
used in similar circumstances. I'm strictly a hobbyist, 110V only, and
the present wiring is adequate. I plan on keeping the present concrete
floor, have some overhead flourescent lights, a little overhead storage
for wood. The present garage door is going to go, replaced by a double
French door or perhaps a slider so that larger/longer pieces can get in
and out.
Any ideas on improvements that I might make while the transition is
still going on?
Answer:
-If you can spare a few bucks, I strongly recommend the addition of a
wood floor over your concrete slab. Your legs will thank you many times
over and so will any planes, chisels or other cutting tools that may
come into contact with it. You can also route wiring and even DC
connections underneath it. I'd also add a utility sink to you shop
space too. You may also want to consider A/C and heating depending on
where you live. If you plan on a DC, an enclosure for one might be a
good idea to add now too, or at least plan for.
-I recently moved to a new house that has a double car garage with a
small shop attached. The shop was tiny so I converted the garage to a
woodworking shop. Unfortunately the garage was open to the elements - no
doors, insulation, or wall covering and is 25 years old. First thing I
realized is that the studs and ceiling joists (SPF) get real hard over 25
years - driving nails was a challenge. After I insulated and put up gyprock
I painted it white and put in a lot of fluorescent lights to provide lots
of light. The building already had a 100 amp sub-panel so electricity was
not a problem but I did add some overhead outlets for dust extractor etc. I
put in 3 - 1500 watt electric baseboard heaters but am not sure they will
be adequate. Also put in 2 insulated roll-up sectional garage doors with
weather-stripping. I wanted the big doors to move big stuff easily into the
garage from the back of my suburban.
