Portable Garage: An Unsuitable Name for a Most Versatile Structure

Portable Garages Offer Much More than Vehicle Protection

Homeowners looking for more storage space may overlook one of the most versatile and affordable options simply because of its name. Portable garages conjure images of vehicle storage, but the name is misleading because they can do much more than just provide shelter for cars, trucks, and recreational vehicles. With a little creativity, it's easy to come up with a variety of ways in which portable garages can be put to use.

Homes without basements or available space inside can benefit from a portable garage. Instead of taking those extra boxes and doo dads to a storage facility that charges for its services, homeowners can opt to store their goods in a portable garage. It is conveniently located on a homeowner's property, so accessing items in storage requires only a short walk outside rather than a lengthy drive to an external facility. The only feature that portable garages lack is climate control. So, any items that need to be stored in a climate controlled area would be better off inside the home or at a traditional storage facility.

Portable garages also make excellent alternatives to traditional sheds. Lawnmowers, garden supplies, and miscellaneous tools can be stored reliably year round. In addition, portable garages make ideal storage areas for seasonal items. In summer, it can house snow blowers, snowmobiles, and snow shovels. In winter, it can keep patio furniture, pool supplies, and lawn games protected until warmer weather comes again.

Additional workspace is often on homeowners' wish lists. Workshops and art studios can be expanded into a greater area with the addition of a portable garage. Since these structures have a door on both ends, getting large tools, machines, and works of art into and out of the space is easy. Two doors allow the people inside more natural lighting and flexibility of movement, and two doors provide unbeatable ventilation, which is vital when paints or other chemicals are being used. Also, homeowners can take advantage of space heaters in winter so that work can continue year round. Before setting up a heater, though, it's important to be sure that the fabric covering the garage is fire retardant and that the heater is set up at a safe distance from the garage walls.

Aside from serving as a handy workspace, portable garages make excellent shelters for people in a variety of other situations. At work, employees who wish to enjoy a cigarette break may appreciate the shelter, especially on rainy or snowy days. At home, portable garages offer more protection from the elements than a standard shade canopy. Backyard sandboxes or play areas can be covered with a portable garage to protect children from too much sun exposure. And, families can enjoy dining outside more often when protected within the walls of a portable garage. Larger models can even serve as party tents and comfortable outdoor rooms where friends and family can gather and mingle.

The phrase "portable garage" simply does not do justice to this versatile structure. When they are considered as suitable only for vehicle storage, their possibilities are clearly overlooked. Keeping an open mind and looking beyond the obvious will allow homeowners to benefit in unexpected ways from portable garages.