DIY Garage Wall Storage System for Home Organization
I recently did my garage makeover and added the best garage storage system for wall-mounted storage space. It has been a total game changer for garage organization and created so much more floor space. In this post I will tell you everything you need to know about adding a DIY garage wall storage system without any professional help. Wall slats are the perfect solution for a messy garage and I’ll guide you through the entire process and answer all your questions!
Intro to Garage Slatwall Systems
A garage slatwall system is a great way to increase storage options in your garage or other storage space. Slatwalls are a type of garage wall organization system which come in robust panels that you can install on your walls. You can then use different accessories like hooks and baskets to store items onto the slat wall panels for easy access. The result is a contemporary looking design while increasing wall storage capacity.
When I was doing research for my garage makeover, I looked at many different garage organization systems. I had already built my own wall-mounted racks for storage bins and purchased cheap wall cabinets for paints and such. I still needed a heavy-duty slatwall style panel system that would keep everything from sports equipment to tools, off the floor.
Most of the slat wall systems I saw were very pricey, and looked difficult to install. I considered the Gladiator wall system. I then came across a local American company called StoreWall that operates out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. They are a family run operation that manufactures and sells premium wall-mounted slatwall storage systems for garage storage needs. While they don’t have local stores across the country, they supply to major retailers like Amazon and also sell directly from their website. I found this system to be the best value and I’ll tell you why in the next section.
Things to Consider
When looking for wall-mounted garage storage solutions, there are some things you should consider:
- Strong: The slatwall should heavy duty with a high weight capacity, constructed to hold your heaviest items.
- Durable: It should be durable so you’re getting a good return on your investment over the years. StoreWall uses waterproof thermoplastic, won’t weather, scratch or fade in extreme heat.
- Safe: The equipment has to be safe, you shouldn’t be worrying about things falling off. StoreWall has its own exclusive CamLok™ technology which safely secures items to walls.
- Easy to clean: A good slatwall system should be easy to clean. You can simply wipe this one down or hose it off.
- Flexible: One thing I love about this system is that you can customize it to your space. Modular parts are available in multiple finishes.
- Simple to install: Ease of installation was probably my biggest factor when choosing to purchase StoreWall value kits. They have an easy to follow three-step process which makes installation a breeze.
How to Plan for Slatwall System
Before you go ahead and start ordering your panels I highly recommend planning out your space in advance in as much detail as possible. I’m talking about listing everything you want to store on the slatwall down to the color and trim options. If you need to clear space for a work area, get a storage unit to temporarily put away stuff.
- Measure space: First, measure the wall where you want to install wall-mounted slats and determine how much of the wall you want to cover. Mine was a total surface area of 12′ x 12′.
- Pick a finish: There are multiple colors and finishes to choose from depending on the style you’re going for. I went with the bright white finish for a clean, modern look
- Calculate material: Now based on your measurements, calculate the amount of material needed. It’s often cheaper to buy a value kit versus choosing individual panels
- Trim: StoreWall offers trim options to complete the look so there are no exposed edges on either side. This is optional.
- List items: Now you want to make a list of all the items you want to store on the wall for easy access. You can get as detailed as you like or just write out categories like power tools, and sports equipment. I wrote out exactly what tools I wanted to store on the wall but you don’t have to be that specific at this stage.
- Choose accessories: Based on your list you can figure out which accessories to purchase. I recommend getting an accessories bundle for best value. I’m not sure if you can use another brand’s hooks and accessories for this system but if I find one that’s compatible I’ll add it to this post. If you have a specific item to store like long-handled tools, their website has a lot of options to choose from.
How to Install Garage Slatwall System
For the StoreWall slat wall storage system, there are two main installation methods. One is direct installation of the panels into wall studs using drywall screws. The other installation method involves using their install strips which are more heavy-duty. I went with the install strips method for peace of mind. I recommend ordering your panels from Amazon because that gives you free shipping. On the other hand, there is more variety and availability of products on the company website.
Once your product has arrived, here’s how you can install it:
- Step 1: Mark out all wall studs on the chosen wall space and the outline of the entire panel where it will start and finish.
- Step 2: Use a laser level to project a level vertical line at the first wall stud and start securing it with the included hardware. You will need 1.5″ screws for this part and an impact drill.
- Step 3: Continue installing the metal strips until you reach the end of the pre-determined wall space.
- Step 4: Now is the fun part! Take your panels and just drop them into the grooves of the install strips – it’s so satisfying to see them snap into place. Seat each additional panel into the install strip by pushing down on the top of the panel.
- Step 5: Add any trim to the sides if needed.
- Step 6: Add hooks and accessories and organize to your heart’s content!
Note: StoreWall has a lot of video tutorials on Youtube as well for the more visual learners and that’s what I used as a reference in addition to the paper instructions.
My Shopping List
For my exact configuration I ordered the following product and full disclosure, I received a 50% discount on all items. I reached out to StoreWall once I had narrowed down which company seemed the best for my needs and they offered a discount for no obligation in return. All opinions on this blog post are my own. I really think adding this to my garage has been a worthwhile investment and has created so much extra room.
Additional Resources
If you want to read more about my garage organization journey, I have some additional resources for you to check out! Trust me, you don’t want to miss the before of my garage. I added DIY wall-mounted shelves on the back wall. I got extra large wheeled bins on the bottom for heavier items and basic garage cabinets for paint storage. Simple DIY projects like the plywood shelves and slatwall storage really take the garage to the next level!
For more garage storage and organization info check out this post:
This post contains affiliate links to products that I used or recommend. If you purchase something through an affiliate link, I may receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. I really appreciate your support!
