Create custom wall storage

Sturdy metal grids screw into wall studs and provide attachment points across the entire surface (hangers snap onto the wire grid). Panels range in size from 1 x 5' to 4 x 8'; with the 2 x 4' panel being the most popular.

For these panels, versatility reigns. The ¹⁄₄ " holes in this system accept standard hooks and fixtures like the ones designed for perforated hardboard (commonly known by the Peg-Board brand). The slots accept a wide selection of shelves, bins, and other organizational aids. Black and white vinyl tape shown at left make it easy to create tool silhouettes. Panels come in eight color options, and prices range from $16 to $32.

It's inexpensive ($17 for a 4x8' sheet) and available everywhere, so no wonder perforated hardboard still has fans. Look for new versions of tool hangers that lock into the ¹⁄₄ " holes. This bench combines hardboard with a track system.

For garages with 9' or taller walls, a shelf-and-rack combo could be the ticket to family organization. The brackets, anchored to studs, carry a 2,000-pound rating. Seldom-used and seasonal items stay organized and dust-free in storage bins stacked above the shelf.

Support an entire wall of tools and supplies when you hang your wall system off a securely mounted top track. (See details next slide) Because shelf standards hang freely from the horizontal top track, spacing of shelf standards is entirely flexible—an installation plus. Designers at The Container Store (containerstore.com) created the 100x96" Elfa system at left, based on the homeowner's tool list. Installation required just 60 minutes.

The flexible rubber contours of Elfa's large tool hanger grip tools from 1¹⁄₈ " to 1⁵⁄₈ " in diameter. The hanger snaps into a utility track locked between two shelf standards as shown in the inset photo in lower right corner.

When it's not practical to fasten the top track to a wall stud, the Danish-designed Elfa system, shown on previous slide, relies on sturdy drywall anchors as shown at left. The threading action compresses the plastic barrel behind the drywall.

Slatwall makes it easy to rearrange storage as you acquire new equipment or interests. You'll find a wide range of specialty hangers, hook-on baskets, and shelves that fit the T-slots of slatwall panels. Most, but not all, manufacturers produce interchangeable hangers; basic hooks retail for about $2. Costs vary for panels; the most popular homeowner choices include plastic (about $6/sq. ft.) and MDF (about $2.50/sq. ft).

Can't find exactly the hanger you need? Make your own. Cross-country skis rest on 5"-deep slatwall shelf material cut 12" wide.

Storage tubs rest on 15"-wide shelf supports; about $15 each.

Cam locks secure a 12"D x 24"W x 9¹⁄₂ "H basket.

Never worry about your kayak crashing down on you or the car. Lake Manufacturing's 24"-wide padded hook integrates with any generic slatwall panel.

A tidy spot for painting supplies requires only a few square feet of slatwall. Cut 5"-deep shelves from 12"- or 24"-long material.

There are now at least a half dozen track systems on the market. Most systems feature 48"-long strips and proprietary hooks, shelves, and baskets that fit in 5-6"-wide track channels. Hooks slide and then lock in place to get the tool location just right. Best news: The hooks stay in place when you remove items.

Photos of the same garage corner demonstrate the versatility of a track system and hooks that work for family toys or yard and garden tools. Craftsman VersaTrack, about $8; hooks, about $6.

Standard hangers keep fishing rods from flopping around; a nearby ventilated shelf is ideal for a tackle box.

Standard hangers keep fishing rods from flopping around; a nearby ventilated shelf is ideal for a tackle box.

Garage Tip: Get it right the first time
Professional organizer Barry Izsak suggests that before you start drilling holes in the wall, have a helper hold up items you want to hang (tools, bikes, bags) to determine the optimum wall bracket height and placement.