How to Lower Overhead Garage Storage

Fixed Overhead Storage

• 1

  Select a fixed overhead storage shelf with long support arms. Measure the height of your garage ceilings with a tape measure. Subtract the length of the support arms for each unit you consider. The difference will be the height of the installed shelf.

• 2

  Locate your garage's ceiling joists using a stud finder. Mark their locations at several points in pencil.

• 3

  Arrange the mounting brackets for the ceiling-mounted shelf according to the manufacturer's directions and the layout of the shelf, as measured with a tape measure. Place them directly below ceiling joists whenever possible.

• 4

  Screw the brackets into place using the supplied screws and an electric screwdriver. Attach the shelf assembly to the mounting brackets using the supplied screws. Pull down gently on the shelf to test its strength and check for proper installation.

Adjustable Ceiling Hoists

• 5

  Install an adjustable ceiling hoist following the same steps necessary to install a ceiling-mounted shelf unit.

• 6

  Insert the supplied crank hook rod into the pulley mechanism located on the hoist's body. Turn the crank hook counterclockwise to slowly lower the hoist's shelf.

• 7

  Raise the hoist's shelf by inserting the crank hook rod into the pulley mechanism and turning it clockwise. Raise the hoist when the stored items aren't needed, lowering it only when necessary. This will prevent the shelf from swinging against garage walls, and keep the area clear for walking or driving below the hoist.

Wall Storage

• 8

  Make a series of pencil marks on your garage walls indicating the height you can reach comfortably.

• 9

  Select wall hooks or brackets to accommodate the type of items you need to store. For example, select long padded brackets with higher weight capacities to store bicycles, or small hooks with lower weight limits to store work clothing and long-handled tools.

• 10

  Identify the location of your garage's wall studs using a stud finder and pencil. Determine where the stud markings meet the earlier markings that indicate a good height for wall storage. Mark these locations by penciling Xs.

• 11

  Attach brackets and hooks to the wall where you've marked Xs using the included screws and an electric screwdriver. Relocate existing brackets to these new locations by climbing a ladder and unscrewing them from their present locations. Reuse the same mounting hardware unless it appears damaged.