DIY not always the way to go
One of the questions i am asked most often is how hard can it be to install an overhead garage storage rack. I always seem to smile when i hear that and my response is always the same. It’s not that hard if you know what your doing. I have had some customers that had no trouble at all and i have had others that have spent all day in the garage and not gotten one rack installed. So it really does come down to knowledge and application.
I have installed almost four thousand racks over the years and there are some overhead garage installation tips that will never change. Here are some of my favorite:
- When you are considering a DIY installation, remember to ask yourself the biggest question of all; am i capable of installing this rack so that it is secure and will not collapse knowing that it probably will be sitting over my car. If you have to think about it then the answer is NO.
- If you are considering hiring someone to install your rack, make sure they have experience with that particular rack. I had one customer that decided their landscaper was capable of installing the rack. He was not. I have also been on repair job where brackets were upside down, angles going the wrong direction, etc.
- If you are going to go the DIY route make sure you have the proper tools. A functioning stud finder is essential. Tapping on the ceiling with your hand or a hammer is not a substitute for a stud finder that can locate the center of the rafter. At one house i was called to install a rack after the homeowner had given up i found a record 14 holes in the ceiling.That was a lot of holes. I had to give it to him for sticking with it. Drilling holes till you find the rafter is really not the best way to go.
I know overhead garage racks are often sold as a DIY project and for many that is true. But if you have even the slightest doubt about installing racks that can hold an average of 600 pounds over you car, then its probably best to call Garage Guy