7 Common Mistakes That Cost Colorado Homeowners
Prevent costly repairs, safety hazards, and inefficiencies with these essential garage maintenance tips
A well-maintained garage protects your home and belongings, creating a true extension of your home.
We’re passionate about providing garage solutions that help homeowners transform their garages into beautiful, functional spaces. From smart storage to durable flooring, we believe a well-organized garage enhances both convenience and home value. However, maintaining this space goes beyond just aesthetics—regular upkeep is essential to ensure longevity, efficiency, and safety.
Unfortunately, many homeowners unintentionally overlook key maintenance tasks, leading to costly repairs, potential hazards, and avoidable inefficiencies. By staying proactive, you can protect your investment and keep your garage in peak condition for years to come.
Think you’re keeping your garage in top shape?
7 Common Garage Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid….
1. Poor Floor Care
Allowing oil, gas, and other fluid stains to set into concrete floors can deteriorate the surface and create permanent stains. Many homeowners also neglect sealing their garage floor, which leaves it vulnerable to moisture damage and makes cleaning more difficult.
Solution - Clean spills immediately using an absorbent material like cat litter, followed by a degreaser or a baking soda and water mixture. Consider applying a
high-performance and durable polyaspartic coating to protect the floor from future stains and damage. A polyaspartic floor is far easier to maintain than standard concrete, significantly reducing the need for frequent upkeep.
We specialize in installing high-performance, durable polyaspartic floor coatings designed to enhance and protect your garage floor. A CGS floor system has 7 key benefits that all reduce the maintenance of your garage floor.
2. Improper Storage Practices
Storing temperature-sensitive items like paint, electronics, or chemicals in a non-climate-controlled garage can lead to damage from extreme heat or cold. In fact, there are several items that should never be stored in your Colorado garage. Additionally, stacking items directly against walls without proper shelving can create moisture build-up, increasing the risk of mold and mildew.
Solution - Store temperature-sensitive items indoors or in insulated storage containers. Install wall-mounted shelving, overhead racks, slatwall, and cabinetry to keep items off the floor and allow for proper airflow. Every garage is unique, and we can help you design the perfect and most efficient system for your garage space with a combination of lockers, cabinets, shelving, work stations and more.
Slatwall and overhead storage maximizes unused space, keeping rarely used or awkwardly sized items off the garage floor and neatly organized.
3. Ignoring Water Management
Failing to address water infiltration issues, such as damaged weatherstripping at the bottom of the garage door or cracks in the foundation, can lead to serious structural problems. Poor drainage around the garage can exacerbate water damage and contribute to mold growth.
Solution - Regularly inspect and replace worn-out weatherstripping on the garage door. Seal any cracks in the foundation with waterproof caulk or epoxy. Ensure gutters and downspouts direct water away from the garage, and consider installing a French drain if drainage is a recurring issue.
4. Inadequate Pest Prevention
Small gaps and cracks in your garage can allow rodents and insects to enter and nest. Many homeowners are unaware that even a quarter-inch gap is large enough for mice to squeeze through.
Solution - Seal all gaps and cracks with weatherproof caulk or steel wool. Store pet food and other attractants in airtight containers. Regularly inspect the garage for signs of pests and set traps or use repellents as needed. Keeping the garage clean and clutter-free will also deter unwanted visitors. Check out these 6 easy ways to organize your garage today.
A cluttered garage provides hiding spots and nesting areas for pests, making it an inviting environment for rodents and insects to thrive.
5. Overlooking Ventilation
A poorly ventilated garage can lead to air quality issues, excessive moisture buildup, and accelerated rust on tools and equipment. This is especially problematic for those who use the garage for woodworking, car repairs, or storing items that emit fumes. Garages are evolving into dynamic spaces beyond just car storage - explore 2025 garage trends that maximize every square foot of your home.
Solution - Install vents, exhaust fans, or a dehumidifier to improve airflow and reduce humidity. If you use the garage as a workshop, ensure there is adequate cross-ventilation by opening windows and doors when working with chemicals or power tools.
6. Electrical Safety Oversights
Overloading circuits with too many power tools or appliances, using indoor-rated extension cords for outdoor applications, and failing to have GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection on outlets all pose serious safety hazards.
Solution - Ensure your garage outlets are GFCI-protected, especially if they are near a water source. Avoid using extension cords as a permanent power solution, and never daisy-chain multiple power strips together. If you frequently use high-powered tools, consider having an electrician install additional outlets or upgrade the circuit panel. Moreover, professional electricians have access to the latest tools and equipment, allowing them to diagnose and rectify issues efficiently. Discover more home repairs that should always be left to professionals.
7. Neglecting Door Maintenance
Many homeowners fail to lubricate garage door components (springs, rollers, and hinges) at least twice a year. This oversight leads to premature wear, squeaking, and potential safety issues. Additionally, ignoring unusual noises or jerky movements can allow minor problems to escalate into costly repairs.
Solution - Apply a high-quality, silicone-based lubricant to the springs, rollers, and hinges every six months. Regularly inspect the door for signs of wear, such as frayed cables or loose bolts. If you notice strange sounds or the door doesn’t open smoothly, schedule a professional inspection promptly.
Your garage is an important part of your home, and proper maintenance is essential to keeping it functional, safe, and efficient. By addressing these common mistakes, you can extend the lifespan of your garage components, improve safety, and enhance overall organization. A little preventive care goes a long way in avoiding costly repairs and ensuring that your garage remains in top condition for years to come.
Thinking about upgrading your Colorado garage? Our team is here to help!
You can learn more about our Custom Garage Solutions Floor Systems, garage doors, cabinets and shelving and other custom upgrades we offer.
You can also request a free estimate here. We’d love to work with you anywhere in the Denver area!
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We offer custom garage services throughout the Denver area including flooring, door repair and replacement, cabinets and shelving and custom upgrades.
