Turn Concrete Blocks Into Simple Tool Storage For Your Garage

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Garages are notorious for getting messy. It's not surprising either, as they're oftentimes a home's catchall space. One category of items you don't want getting lost in the abyss are long-handled tools. We're talking essentials like brooms, rakes, and shovels. Naturally, selecting a dedicated spot will at least corral them together. But without an organizer, even a simple wooden storage rack, it can be a pain to keep long-handled tools upright. Turns out, you just need to stack a few concrete blocks to solve the issue.

This clever hack was shared on the Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford YouTube channel. By setting concrete blocks on top of each other, the openings can be utilized to hold tools, similar to a tall storage container. However, it's one that's possibly sturdier and less expensive than others. You'll need three blocks for the DIY (although the amount can be adjusted). Home improvement stores like Home Depot sell 8 x 8 x 16-inch Concrete Blocks for less than $2 each. Remember that it's easy to transform concrete blocks into home and garden treasures, too, if you feel like scooping up extra!

The first thing to do is pick the spot where you'd like to store your long-handled tools. It should be out of the way against a wall, but also somewhere that's convenient. Clear the area and sweep up any debris on the floor. Now, place a concrete block on the ground with the openings facing upwards. Stack two more on top in the same position, making sure they're all even. Gather your tools so that you can test the organizer's height. If it's better for your situation, you could always go up or down a block.

Insert your tools through the holes (with the handles facing downwards), and they'll remain upright. Because of the blocks' hefty size, the container should be sturdy even without an adhesive. It'll also give you the freedom to disassemble it anytime you're rearranging the space. Create additional units if not all the tools will fit. Plus, it may help keep things extra organized if, for example, your rakes have their own home. While the hack is intended for long-handled tools, you could also create a block set for other garage items such as umbrellas, fishing rods, or baseball bats.

Not a fan of the industrial-gray color? You can easily paint the concrete blocks prior to setting them up. Consider covering them with a layer of bonding primer first, like this BEHR Concrete and Masonry Bonding Primer. It'll help prevent the concrete from soaking up the paint. Finally, transform the blocks with a new color so that the tool organizer will have an upgraded look. In addition to this project, you could also try out a wooden pallet DIY for even more garage storage.