Even though it could be a better or more cost-effective option, drywall is a common wall covering for garages. Drywall may seem nice, but it could be more durable and moisture-resistant. It could better fit a space that houses vehicles or heavy machinery. Despite drywall’s low price tag, more affordable options may transform your garage’s appearance.
Metal panels, plywood, OSB, and backer boards are inexpensive options for garage wall finishing. You have two options for finishing materials for your garage wall; your choice should be based on your budget. Every option comes with its own set of pros and cons.
The Need For Low-Cost Garage Wall Ideas
A disorganised garage might pose a threat to one’s safety. However, that is not all. A disorganised garage is another common source of wasted time and energy. Finding what you need takes time, and you will only get something done when you have to keep looking.
That’s why cheap garage wall designs are fantastic. Use these suggestions to improve your space and maintain order among your tools and equipment. After this, your garage will become a more pleasant, efficient, and secure workplace.
The Advantages Of Inexpensive Garage Wall
Consider some low-cost garage wall ideas for reasons other than the obvious ones, including increased productivity and security. The first is that it’s usually easy to put these plans into action. Get started without being an expert in do-it-yourself projects.
Cheap garage wall ideas also have the bonus of being inexpensive. The items you require are usually available at your neighbourhood hardware shop. And the investment, should you be required to purchase specialised equipment, will be rather little. It would help to think about low-cost garage wall ideas to enhance your garage. Implementing these suggestions greatly enhances your space’s practicality and beauty.
Tips To Finish Your Garage At A Lower Cost
- Obtain a quote. Find out how much money you will need before you begin the project. You need to consult an expert to get an accurate estimate of how much money you will need for your project.
- Spend less on supplies. Determine what supplies you will need when you get quotes for your job. Shop for the best price by obtaining quotations from many providers of the necessary supplies. Get the greatest deal on finishing supplies by shopping at your neighbourhood hardware store.
- DIY. You can complete the garage walls independently if you select plywood or another easy-to-work-with material. You can avoid spending a tonne of money on an expensive professional installation by doing it yourself.
- How big is your garage? The cost to finish the walls of your garage will increase in proportion to its size. Reducing the size of your garage could help you save money on wall finishing.
- Put used materials to use. Renovating your garage walls shouldn’t break the bank if you use any unused construction materials you may have lying around.
- Save the unnecessary details. For the garage walls, simplicity is key.
Considerations For Finding Low-Cost Materials To Finish Your Garage
Fire Codes
Be sure to adhere to your local building codes when constructing your garage. Building codes often call for drywall as the final wall finish. Use ¾ inch type X drywall as per fire code requirements. According to local building codes, alternate materials for the garage walls can be illegal.
Permits
Finishing your garage might necessitate a permit, depending on your local regulations. Your local government sets the cost of construction permits. Your project’s budget will go up due to the expense of permits.
Use A Professional Or Do It Yourself
Whether you want to hire a professional or do it yourself depends on the materials you pick to finish your garage wall. Doing it yourself can save a lot of money on your project. The labour of professionals is often priced per hour. More than one worker may be required to get a flawless finish, depending on the materials you use. The project cost goes up a notch because of that.
Garage’s Present Condition
The finishing project cost will be affected by the garage’s existing state. The cost can be more than anticipated if the garage requires major repairs. To begin working on the walls, you may save money by removing stuff from the garage.
Purpose
The materials you choose for the garage will depend on your plans for use after the walls are finished. Use inexpensive materials if you only intend to use them as a garage or workshop. More costly, high-quality materials will be required to make it habitable if you use it as an additional room.
The Property’s Market Worth
Increase your home’s resale value by finishing your garage. You can get a good return on your investment when you sell your home if you finish the garage walls with high-value materials.
Ideas For An Inexpensive Garage Wall
Pegboard Wall With Paint
Painted pegboard walls are among the simplest and most adaptable garage wall ideas.
A pegboard wall can liven up your garage with a splash of colour and a practical, adaptable storage solution.
Pros:
- Reasonably priced and easily accessible.
- Flexible tool and accessory storage option.
- Simple to adjust and reorganise.
- Gives an image that is tidy and well-planned.
Cons:
- It is less appealing visually than the alternatives.
- Has to be installed correctly to guarantee stability.
Magnetic Wall Panels
Using magnetic wall panels is another simple and inexpensive way to adorn the walls of your garage. If you want your garage to stay organised, magnetic panels are a great way to store and show off all your metal tools and items. The benefits of magnetic wall panels will be discussed below.
Pros:
- Handy storage for little things and metal tools.
- Simple visibility and retrieval of stored goods.
- Able to be integrated with different storage systems.
- Straightforward installation procedure.
Cons:
- Restricted to metal objects alone.
- It is not appropriate for big or weighty instruments.
DIY Corkboard Wall
An easy and inexpensive way to display papers, reminders, and notes is with a do-it-yourself corkboard wall. Why not add a do-it-yourself corkboard wall to your garage? Here are a few reasons why:
Pros:
- Useful for attaching project ideas, notes, and reminders.
- Serves to absorb sound and lessen echo.
- Simple to set up and alter.
- Gives a distinct texture and eye-catching appeal.
Cons:
- Fewer storage possibilities in comparison to other solutions.
- Requires constant upkeep to maintain the cork’s quality.
Pallet Board Accent Wall
A pallet board accent wall is a great option for a garage wall that is both rustic and environmentally conscious. You can get pallet boards for almost nothing because they are thrown out so frequently. Collect pallet boards around the same size and smooth off any rough spots.
After that, use screws or nails to fasten them to the wall. The rustic pallet boards will spruce up your garage with their earthy tones and rustic texture. Your workstation, tool storage, or even a little lounging area may all find a home against this wall.
Pros:
- Provides a charming and rustic appearance.
- Inexpensive—or, if you use used pallet planks, free.
- Gives the garage area more warmth and personality.
- It may be a do-it-yourself task.
Cons:
- Takes time and work to prepare and install correctly.
- Restricted capacity for storing.
Chalkboard Wall
A blackboard wall in the garage is a great way to let your imagination run wild. Chalkboard paint is a cheap and easy way to turn any wall into a blank slate for your creative expression. Let the specified area dry after applying multiple layers of chalkboard paint. Once the chalk has dried, you may decorate it, draw lists, or write messages. You can even use chalk markers.
A blackboard wall in your garage serves a practical purpose while bringing a sense of playfulness and interaction into the space.
Pros:
- Gives you a multipurpose area where you may jot down ideas and thoughts.
- Brings a touch of individuality and imagination.
- Requires little upkeep and cleaning.
- Apt for short-term sketching or design projects.
Cons:
- Regular cleaning may be necessary to remove chalk dust.
- It is not appropriate for any garage concept or style.
Reclaimed Wood Wall
If you like rustic design, a salvaged wood wall is a great way to give your garage some character and warmth. If you need wood that has been previously used, look for pallets, old barn planks, or salvage yards. To get the wood ready, clean it and sand it until it’s smooth.
Screw or glue the wood pieces into place on the wall. Thanks to the inherent colour and texture differences, your garage will take on a unique charm of recycled wood.
Pros:
- Provides a natural and rustic appearance.
- It may be a more eco-friendly choice.
- Gives the garage more warmth and texture.
- It can be obtained for little money, if not free.
Cons:
- Demands meticulous recycled wood treatment and selection.
- Lengthy installation procedure.
Vinyl Wall Decals
Garage wall decals made of vinyl are a great choice for a fast and inexpensive wall makeover. You can easily add a personal touch to any room with these sticky stickers, which come in various sizes, patterns, and designs. Vinyl decals are great for those who live in rented spaces or who change their decor often since they are easy to install and remove.
Vinyl wall decals are an easy and inexpensive method to decorate your garage walls with any quotation, theme, or image you choose, whether it’s a sports team logo, an inspirational saying, or a scene from nature.
Pros:
- Inexpensive and simple to use.
- Many different types and patterns are offered.
- Able can be altered or removed without causing harm to the wall.
- Permits customisation and personalisation.
Cons:
- Restricted to the available decals’ size and design.
- It could provide a limited amount of storage or organising advantages.
Metal Grid Wall
A metal grid wall may maximise storage space while giving off an industrial, contemporary vibe. Metal grid panels are widely available at hardware shops and on the internet. Usually constructed from sturdy metals like steel or wire mesh, these panels are designed to be readily attached to the wall using fasteners or pegs.
Hooks, baskets, and shelves may be attached to the grid design to store various objects, such as gardening supplies, sports equipment, and tools. Create a streamlined sanctuary in your garage with the help of a metal grid wall.
Pros:
- Flexible solution for storing tools and equipment.
- Simple to modify and reorganise as necessary.
- Makes it possible to see and access objects that are saved.
- Provides an industrial and contemporary look.
Cons:
- For appropriate storage, more hooks or accessories could be needed.
- It may cost more when compared to alternative solutions.
Fabric Wall Coverings
Consider covering your garage walls with cloth for a softer, more textured look. The colour, pattern, and texture options of fabrics are practically limitless. Pick a cloth that works with your garage’s design and longevity needs.
Use glue or staples to attach cloth wall coverings to the wall. Using fabrics in your garage may make it cosier, quieter, and more energy efficient. Covering flaws or faults in the existing walls is a breeze with fabric wall coverings.
Pros:
- Lessens reverberation and softens the garage area.
- Regulates temperature and offers insulation.
- Provides an extensive range of hues and designs.
- It is simple to install and remove.
Cons:
- Requires periodic upkeep and cleaning.
- It could offer a limited amount of storage capacity.
Bike Storage Wall Mount
Installing a bike rack on the wall is a lifesaver for serious cyclists who need more garage floor space. These mounts let you hang your bikes vertically to use your space on your floor better. A wide variety of bike wall mounts are available, including hooks, brackets, and specialised hangers.
Pick a sturdy bike rack and set it up at an appropriate height on the wall. Not only does this solution make your garage walls look more athletic and dynamic, but it also keeps your bikes organised and conveniently accessible.
Pros:
- Keeps bikes organised and frees up floor space.
- Makes motorcycles easily visible and accessible.
- Adaptable enough to fit a variety of bike sizes.
- Provide a distinctive and fashionable display element.
Cons:
- Exclusive to the storage of bicycles.
- Has to be installed correctly to guarantee stability.
What To Expect After Finishing Your Garage Wall
- Greater room. Shelves and hooks may be added to the walls of your garage once they are finished to hold various objects, such as tools. Removing equipment off the floor makes room for an additional vehicle or other useless household goods.
- Improved appearance. Finished walls make a garage seem better. To improve the garage’s curb appeal, you may paint or decorate the walls in various ways after they’re done.
- Finished garage walls are simple to maintain. You can clean your walls easily with several wall-finishing products. Just use a damp cloth to wash the surface to remove oil and grime from the fibreglass finish.
- Boost the property’s worth. Increase your home’s resale value by finishing the garage.
- Livable space. Spending more time than is strictly required in your garage before you finish it is not a good idea. The garage becomes a habitable room after finishing and decorating it. How you finish it will determine whether it becomes an extra room, an office, or something you can rent out.
Conclusion
Low-cost garage wall ideas can enhance your garage’s appearance and functionality, making it a more pleasant, efficient, and secure workplace. These ideas can be implemented without the need for specialised equipment and can be easily implemented without a professional. To finish your garage at a lower cost, consider obtaining a quote, spending less on supplies, DIYing, reducing the size of your garage, using unused materials, and minimising unnecessary details.
Consider adhering to local building codes and permits, hiring a professional or doing it yourself, and considering the garage’s present condition. Drywall is a common wall covering for garages, but other options like metal panels, plywood, OSB, and backer boards are also cost-effective options.
Fire codes, permits, hiring a professional or doing it yourself, and the garage’s present condition can affect the cost of finishing your garage wall. To save money, remove items from the garage and consider the purpose of the materials. For example, inexpensive materials can be used for garage or workshop purposes, while more expensive, high-quality materials may be needed for additional rooms. By considering these low-cost garage wall ideas, you can create a more organised and functional garage that enhances your space’s functionality and beauty.
To increase your home’s resale value, consider finishing your garage walls with high-value materials. Some inexpensive garage wall ideas include painted pegboard walls, magnetic wall panels, DIY corkboard walls, pallet board accent walls, chalkboard walls, and reclaimed wood walls.
Painted pegboard walls are a simple and adaptable storage solution that can liven up your garage with a splash of colour. Magnetic wall panels are a great way to store and show off metal tools and items, but they are limited to metal objects alone and are not suitable for big or weighty instruments.
Do-it-yourself corkboard walls are another option, offering a rustic and environmentally conscious look. Pallet board accent walls provide a charming and rustic appearance but require constant upkeep. Chalkboard walls allow for creative expression and provide a multipurpose area for jotting down ideas and thoughts. Reclaimed wood walls, on the other hand, offer a natural and rustic appearance, are eco-friendly, and provide warmth and texture. However, they require meticulous treatment and selection and can be expensive or free.
In summary, finishing your garage walls with high-value materials can significantly increase the property’s market worth and provide a return on investment when selling your home.
Vinyl wall decals are an affordable and easy way to add a personal touch to your garage walls. They come in various sizes, patterns, and designs, making them suitable for those living in rented spaces or who frequently change their decor.
Metal grid walls are a versatile solution for maximising storage space and giving off an industrial, contemporary vibe. They can be attached to the wall using fasteners or pegs and can store various objects like gardening supplies, sports equipment, and tools.
Fabric wall coverings offer a softer, more textured look, with a wide range of colours, patterns, and textures available. They can be used to cover flaws or faults in existing walls, making the garage more cosier, quieter, and more energy efficient. However, they require periodic upkeep and cleaning and may offer limited storage capacity.
Bike storage wall mounts are a great solution for serious cyclists who need more garage floor space. They allow them to hang their bikes vertically, free up floor space, and provide a distinctive display element. However, they are only suitable for bicycle storage and must be installed correctly to ensure stability.
Finally, finishing your garage wall can result in a larger room, improved appearance, increased property value, and livable space.
Content Summary
- Drywall is a common, budget-friendly option for garage walls despite its durability concerns.
- Metal panels, plywood, OSB, and backer boards offer cost-effective alternatives for garage wall finishing.
- Organising a cluttered garage enhances safety, efficiency, and time management.
- Implementing cheap garage wall designs promotes workspace efficiency and security.
- Low-cost garage wall ideas improve productivity and ease of implementation.
- Obtaining accurate quotes helps budget effectively for garage wall finishing projects.
- Sourcing supplies wisely from multiple providers saves money on garage wall finishing.
- DIY installation of garage walls saves costs on professional labour.
- Garage size directly influences the expense of wall finishing materials.
- Utilising unused construction materials reduces garage wall finishing expenses.
- Simplified garage wall designs are cost-effective and practical.
- Adhering to local fire codes is crucial when selecting garage wall materials.
- Obtaining permits may add to the overall expense of garage wall finishing.
- Deciding between professional installation or DIY affects project costs.
- Existing garage conditions impact the final cost of wall-finishing projects.
- Garage purpose determines the choice between inexpensive or high-quality materials.
- Finishing garage walls with high-value materials can enhance property resale value.
- Pegboard walls offer flexible and affordable garage storage solutions.
- Magnetic wall panels provide convenient storage for metal tools and items.
- DIY corkboard walls offer easy display options for notes and reminders.
- Pallet board accent walls provide rustic charm at a minimal cost.
- Chalkboard walls encourage creativity and practical use in the garage.
- Reclaimed wood walls add character and warmth to garage spaces.
- Vinyl wall decals offer a quick and customisable garage wall makeover.
- Metal grid walls maximise storage space with an industrial aesthetic.
- Fabric wall coverings add texture and insulation to garage walls.
- Bike storage wall mounts free up garage floor space and add a stylish element.
- Finished garage walls allow for the addition of shelves and hooks for storage.
- Improved garage appearance enhances overall curb appeal.
- Easy maintenance of finished garage walls ensures long-term durability.
- Finished garage walls increase property value upon resale.
- Transforming the garage into a habitable space adds versatility to the property.
- Drywall, despite its popularity, may lack durability and moisture resistance.
- Metal panels, plywood, OSB, and backer boards offer budget-friendly alternatives.
- Organising a cluttered garage improves safety, efficiency, and productivity.
- Cheap garage wall designs streamline workspace functionality and security.
- Low-cost garage wall ideas facilitate easy implementation for enhanced productivity.
- Accurate quotes aid in budgeting effectively for garage wall finishing projects.
- Sourcing supplies from multiple providers helps save on garage wall finishing costs.
- DIY installation of garage walls minimises expenditure on professional labour.
- Garage size directly impacts the cost of wall finishing materials.
- Repurposing unused construction materials reduces garage wall finishing expenses.
- Simplified garage wall designs offer practical and cost-effective solutions.
- Adhering to local fire codes ensures safety when selecting garage wall materials.
- Obtaining permits may contribute to the overall cost of garage wall finishing.
- Choosing between professional installation or DIY affects project expenditure.
- Existing garage conditions influence the final cost of wall-finishing projects.
- Garage purpose dictates the choice between budget-friendly or premium materials.
- Finishing garage walls with high-quality materials can enhance property resale value.
- Transforming the garage into a habitable space adds versatility and value to the property.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Least Expensive Option For Covering Garage Walls?
One of the least expensive options for covering garage walls is using drywall. Drywall is readily available and cost-effective. However, it may require additional finishing work like taping, mudding, and painting.
Can I Use Plywood As An Affordable Alternative For Garage Walls?
Yes, plywood is another economical choice for garage walls. It’s easy to install and less expensive than drywall, especially if you opt for lower-grade plywood. You can paint or stain plywood for a finished look or leave it untreated for a more rustic appearance.
Are There Any Budget-Friendly Panelling Options For Garage Walls?
Budget-friendly panelling options include beadboard, hardboard panelling, or even textured wall panels. These materials are inexpensive and can provide a decorative finish to your garage walls. They may require minimal finishing, such as painting or sealing.
What About Using Osb (Oriented Strand Board) For Garage Walls?
OSB is a cost-effective alternative to plywood and can be used as a garage wall covering. It’s durable and suitable for attaching items like hooks or shelves. However, like plywood, OSB may need painting or sealing to improve its appearance.
How Can I Keep Costs Down When Using Drywall Or Other Affordable Options For Garage Walls?
To minimise costs when using affordable options like drywall, plywood, or panelling for garage walls:
- Consider DIY installation to save on labour costs.
- Shop for materials during sales or discounts.
- Opt for lower-grade or budget-friendly versions of materials.
- Repurpose salvaged materials, if possible, like reclaimed wood or used drywall.
- Choose basic finishes and paints to keep the overall project budget-friendly.