[CMC#5]

Now that things are starting to settle down here in our new home, we broke ground on the GarageMahal.

Any suggestions/tips from those that know much more than I ever will about electricity and other shop essentials? Keep it simple, essential and wonderland arent the same (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/cool.gif)

Specifically I'm looking for advice on # of circuits and size, as well as floor and wall paint/coating/covering options.

(IMG:http://www.camaromustangchallenge.com/images/Other/GarageDay1.jpg)

[mitchntx]

How many outlets? Decide on paper and double it.
How much light? Decide on paper then double it.
40x45? Double it.

Outside light is a must.

Light switches by EVERY SINGLE EXIT!
Think about cross ventilation.
Figure out a way to get that compressor OUTSIDE!

Your wife is not gonna like walking all the way out to the shop to do your shop towel laundry.

1/2 bath is valuable floor space ... about the size of a decent beer fridge. Besides, pea(sp) gravel works great.

Windows are just another component that will break when you get really pissed having to change yet another opti.
They are also convenient entry ways for those who have no business in your shop.

CAT5, RG59U and phone is a MUST! I installed an intercom to the house. It didn't last long.

I've considered AC, but would be afraid of the electric bill if I tried keeping it cool.
My shop is on a separate meter and the bill typically runs between 40-100/month depending on what's going on inside.

I found a local warehouse salvage business that buys lots of industrial related furniture and fixtures. I bought several 9' x 3' x 18" warehouse shelves for $10 each. Lots of fluids, cleaners, supplies, bins, etc. can be stored in them.

Fire extinguishers BY EVERY EXIT.
Well stocked first aid kit.

Check your home-owner's insurance policy about liability if someone, heaven forbid, is working in your shop, other than you, and gets hurt.
My add-on policy was about $30 a year and give me 1/2 million in accidental death, 200K in hospitalization and some other interesting coverages for broken tools a such.

You should come by and visit WMC some time ...

And PM me ... I need restrictor plates.

[marka]

Howdy,

1/2 bath is valuable floor space ... about the size of a decent beer fridge. Besides, pea(sp) gravel works great.

If you're married or if it rains, keep the half bath. You're going to need the plumbing anyway, because you _are_ going to put a laundry tub/sink out there, right?

Windows are just another component that will break when you get really pissed having to change yet another opti.
They are also convenient entry ways for those who have no business in your shop.

Totally disagree. Windows that provide natural light take away that 'cave' feeling and make the shop much nicer (at least to me). If you don't need to worry about heating costs, I'd put in a bunch of skylights as well.

CAT5, RG59U and phone is a MUST! I installed an intercom to the house. It didn't last long.

Good point. This day and age you really do want a computer in the shop. Consider adding a wireless router so when you're using your laptop tuning software, you still have an internet / network connection.

I found a local warehouse salvage business that buys lots of industrial related furniture and fixtures. I bought several 9' x 3' x 18" warehouse shelves for $10 each. Lots of fluids, cleaners, supplies, bins, etc. can be stored in them.

Yep. Also a great source for blem/discounted countertops, which make nice bench tops.

Of course, what _also_ makes nice bench tops is 1/4" or whatever steel... You should plan on one of these anyway, as you can then tack stuff directly to the bench when you're fabbing something. Then just grind down the tack after you're done.

Mark