[00 Trans Ram]

I'm probably going to move and build a house in the next year or so. When I do, I'm going to build a standalone garage/shop. What would you guys and gals include? I know I've heard things like a balcony for parts, white floors for light, etc.

The size will probably be between 750 and 1000 square feet. I'm also not going to spend a gazillion dollars on it.

Suggestions?

[00 Trans Ram]

Sorry - I should have been more clear.

I'm going to have a lift installed (probably 2 post, but am open to suggestions). That means special concrete for the floor, right?

[cccbock]

Sorry - I should have been more clear.

I'm going to have a lift installed (probably 2 post, but am open to suggestions). That means special concrete for the floor, right?

There a few items here I would like place EMPHASIS on.

You don't need to pour the entire floor to 6 inch for the lift. Most will work with 4 inch. I would figure out where the lift will be located and thicken the pad in that location to 6 inch and add rebar. Will save dough on the concrete which is expensive. Two post lifts are the most flexible and typically cheaper to purchase and install. Get the higher rated one so you can put SUV's, vans, or big tow vehicles up on it.

Regardless of what the vendors say will fit, you will need a 12 foot minimum ceiling. Higher is better. That allows you to put a vehicle 6 feet plus in the air and clear the ceiling and the lift safety bar and so you can walk around under the car standing up (not crouching).

Being in Lousiana (Im in Florida, same weather) consider a small "office" area which can be air conditioned/heated. You will want to work on your car during the winter and summer and being able to get some relief from the hot (or cold) is great. The "roof" of the office can be the loft storage area.

Once you have a lift, you will need some lift specialty tools. In particular a roll around oil reservoir for oil changes and one or two lift stands (kinda like a real tall screw jack). These make excellent christmas gifts to add to your holiday list so that when your garage is built, you will already have the important starter kit.

Build the largest possible space you can. You will grow into it...take my word for it. My shop is 1700 square feet and you cant see the floor anywhere after 7 years of accumulation.

NEVER invite friends over to your garage. Once they see the lift, you will have a steady stream of oil change friends showing up on Saturday's. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/banghead.gif)

bock