The Downsides Of Using Pegboards For Tool Storage (And What To Do Instead)

Organizing your garage can seem like an endless task, as you constantly need changes to keep your space feeling less cluttered. And just when you think you've found a system that works, tools start piling up in awkward places. Pegboards are marketed as the ultimate solution to this problem, giving you quick access to your arsenal of tools without taking up any space on your workbench. But before you click purchase, it's important to know that pegboards may not be the most functional options for your tools organization and may make your projects harder in the long run.

A pegboard may seem like one of the most budget-friendly ways to organize your garage, but it can be remarkably impractical as an organization tool. First, their installation isn't as simple as just hanging it on your wall. In order to properly hang your pegboard, you will need to install a hefty wooden frame behind it, anchoring the board a bit away from the wall in order to fit hooks. This can drastically chip into your budget, especially if you are planning on installing several across your space. Pegboards are also made from pressed paper, so they aren't an optimal choice for storing heavier tools. They can easily tear and bend under the weight of a hefty piece of equipment, leaving you with a less-than-optimal storage space. If you're in the market for the perfect way to store your tools, it's best to skip over the pegboards for something more practical.

You don't have to completely part with the idea of wall-mounted tool storage, as you can still achieve a similar organization technique that is far more budget and user-friendly. The simple solution is the shadowboxing method, a way of creating custom spots for all of your tools. This method only requires a bit of plywood and nails, which you use to make custom holders for your tools. The key to this approach is versatility, giving you the freedom to create a space for just about any household tool, even the most awkward of shapes. Simply hang a piece of plywood and throw in a few nails. If you have a couple of box cutters lying around, you can quickly craft a wooden, mounted container to house them. Or those pesky saw blades that seem to disappear in your drawers can find a new home hanging on a nail; Just remember to file off the head of it for easy access.

There really is no way to go wrong with this method, as you create an individualized setup that works with your space. It is a great way to perfect how you interact with your workstation, expanding the possibilities of your storage options beyond simple hooks. If you're feeling really creative, you can outline each tool with a marker once they're hung up, ensuring that you never forget which tool goes where. With a whole list of tools that every homeowner should have, it is important to have sturdy, reliable storage that doesn't break the bank.