5 Tools Every Man Should Have In His Garage
Five Tools Every Man Should Have In His Garage
Whether you’re 25 or 75, having a properly kitted out toolbox is not only convenient, it might as well be a necessity. With the right tools, you can do almost anything, from building a cabinet to fixing your adorable niece’s old bike. You can also save yourself time and money by getting the job done yourself, and revel in the satisfaction knowing that you are equipped to take on any handy problem life might throw at you. Building up a properly outfitted tool kit can be expensive and overwhelming if you don’t know where to start, so here are the 5 pieces you need to get you well on your way to becoming the ultimate Mr. Fix It.
Claw Hammer
This one is a pretty obvious choice, because hammers are extremely useful for decorating, repairing, building, and even small demolition jobs. A solid 16 ounce hammer is a good starter hammer as it’s heavy enough to get the job done but not heavy enough to weigh you down during a project. Go for a hammer with a long lasting synthetic handle as wooden ones are easily broken.
Phillips Screwdriver
A Phillips head screwdriver has a four star point at its end that fits into the corresponding screw’s shallow, cross-shaped depression. This allows you to apply more torque than you could with a flathead screwdriver, for instance. Phillips screws have basically replaced flathead screws, so make sure you have a good set of them in varying sizes.
Flathead Screwdriver
A flathead screwdriver has a single blade that fits into the single slot of a flathead screw. Your dad probably had a few of these when you were growing up. As mentioned above, even though they’ve been largely replaced by the Phillips screwdriver, flatheads are still great for prying, nudging and scraping things if needs be.
Crescent Wrench
The crescent wrench is an adjustable wrench with a sliding jaw that changes the width of the wrench. So you can use the same tool on different size nuts and bolts. It’s essentially like having 50 wrenches in one and will probably be the tool that you get the most use out of in your kit. For this reason, it’s important that you don’t skimp on quality, so don’t be afraid to go for a higher priced model.
Vice Grip Pliers
These guys are your extra set of hands, as they can lock into place right where you need them most. They are also incredibly versatile tools that can be used as pliers, a pipe wrench, an adjustable wrench, wire cutters, a ratchet, or a clamp. Standard 5-10WR pliers are a good starter model for most stuff around the house and garage.
Things To Remember When Buying Your Tools
Don’t skimp on quality when it comes to the essentials. Be honest with yourself about what you really think you’ll need, and consider renting bigger items you might only use once or twice. Most of all, be patient. Building a good toolbox takes time.
Oregon City Garage Door is here to help you with all of your garage door needs. To schedule service, repair, or installation, fill out our online form or give us a call at 503-632-3070 today!
Top 7 Easy Home Updates
Top Seven Easy Home Updates
Our living spaces should be a comfortable reflection of our personalities and personal tastes. However, if you’ve been living in the same house for awhile, chances are that your decor scheme might need a little freshening up. A revitalized home environment is a great way to boost your mood and keep you from feeling stagnant, but not everyone can afford to do a full-scale home makeover whenever the mood strikes. However, here are a few easy home updates you can do that don’t cost as much as a remodel, but still provide a big enough change to make the space feel different.
1. New Light Fixtures
Nothing dates a room faster than tacky, old-fashioned light fixtures. Shine a little light on your living space by changing up your lampshades or overhead lighting for a whole new look. Lighting is one of the easiest ways to alter the ambiance of a space, so play around with different bulbs and fixtures to create the perfect mood.
2. Modern Door Hardware
Old and rusty door hardware might not seem noticeable, but you’d be surprised at how the simple act of changing up the fixtures can spruce up a room. Replace broken and outdated door knobs and knockers with modern, classic pieces for a practical room refresh.
3. Fresh Table Linens
The easiest way to overhaul your dining room is not by replacing your dining furniture, it’s changing your table cloth and linens. Adding a vibrant color or patterned cloth can instantly brighten up the area and make it seem more modern and appealing. Check out interior design magazines for your table-scape inspiration or try mixing prints and textures to create a decor scheme that showcases your unique personality.
4. New Bathroom Accessories
Buying new towels, a rug, a shower curtain or replacing your existing bathroom fixtures is almost as good as a full bathroom remodel. By matching your accessories like soap dispensers, fixtures and even towels, you’ll create a whole new room for a fraction of the cost.
5. Unusual Accent Furniture
Adding a new rug or chair to a room is an easy way to pull a space together without spending a lot of money. Choose something in a bold pattern or color to draw the eye and create interest. If you’re not sure if you can afford to buy new furniture right now, don’t worry. Make an adventure of it by scouring estate sales and flea markets. Thrifting is a fun way to find a great but affordable piece.
6. New Garage Hardware
Since it’s really a part of the house per say, you’d be forgiven for neglecting the state of your garage. Old garage doors with dated designs can really make your home look shabby. Try replacing your current garage door with a new and more modern version. It’s a quick and practical way to improve the value of your property and boost curb appeal at the same time.
7. Lush Plants
Bring the outdoors indoors and create an earthy paradise by adding a houseplant or two. One of the biggest trends in interior design right now are terrariums made with easy to care for succulent plants. They look modern and interesting but don’t require a lot of maintenance. They’re also are safe for all kinds of pets and grow well in almost any climate.
If you’re looking to spruce up your garage door, give the experts at Oregon City Garage Door a call at 503-632-3070! You can also fill out our online contact form and someone will reach out to you.
4 Awesome Celebrity Garages
Four Awesome Celebrity Garages
Think about the first thing you would buy if you became rich and famous. It’s probably a car, or several cars, right? Well, when you’re incredibly wealthy with more than a few valuable vehicles in your possession, you don’t just want to park your car collection in any old garage. It’s not uncommon for celebrities to turn their garages in multi-million dollar showrooms, and since it’s always fun to see how the other half lives, we’ve found some of the most extravagant ones.
Jay Leno’s Garage
How many people can say that their garages are so nice, they could charge an admission fee and give the proceeds to charity? This late night show host is well known for his affinity for collecting rare cars and motorcycles, housing them in the 17000 square foot garage of his Southern California home. The space takes up two buildings and includes both a machine and fabrication shop, as well as a fully equipped kitchen. The garage is usually closed to the public, but recently Leno offered to give guests a personalized guided tour of his garage for a fee. 215 exclusive guests were offered tickets at $100 each, with all proceeds benefiting the Juvenile Arthritis Alliance.
Ralph Lauren’s D.A.D. Garage
The D.A.D garage gets its name from the initials of Ralph Lauren’s three children, David, Andrew and Dylan. It’s a fitting moniker, as this garage is something of the ultimate dad retreat. It houses all 60 of Lauren’s priceless vehicles and is just as stylish and comfortable as his fashion designs. The two-floor museum-like garage display the cars on white stainless steel counters under bright halogen lamps, with shiny black floors and white walls. This color scheme helps highlight the features of the cars. Not far from the stylish display area, you’ll find a small living area that includes an office, a library and a workshop.
John Travolta’s Garage
Shrouded in secrecy, it’s hard to know exactly what megastar John Travolta’s garage is worth. But here’s what we do know. This car lover’s paradise is located in his Jumbolair estate and the garage’s facilities can accommodate a Gulftsteam jet and a Boeing 707, as well as all the support vehicles needed for both of them. It also has parking space for another 15 vehicles. Don’t forget about the 1.4-mile runway leading to the garage. If that’s not lavish, we don’t know what is.
Jerry Seinfeld’s Garage
Three blocks away from his beautiful Central Park West home, Jerry Seinfeld stows his collection of 46 Porsches in a hideaway in plain sight. His garage is tucked away into a Manhattan side street and obscured by a nondescript facade. Should you be visiting this secret Seinfeld car cave, you’ll need to take an elevator down to the subterranean garage. The space takes up three whole stories and houses his entire collection of Porsches. It also includes an 844-square-foot living space that has its own fully equipped club room, complete with a billiard room.
Contact Oregon City Garage Door
Get started on your own dream garage with a new garage door from Oregon City Garage Door! Our experts will help you find the perfect door to match your style and home. If you would like to learn more, give us a call at 503-632-3070 or fill out our online form today.
Top 10 Movie Cars And Why We Want Them
Top 10 Movie Cars And Why We Want Them
10. The Infamous Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 from 22 Jump Street
Slightly orange, much like Jonah Hill’s spring break tan in the film, this car is almost as impressive as Channing Tatum’s muscles. It goes fast, catches bad guys and is a total hit with the ladies.
Why we want it: This is supposedly Channing Tatum’s dream car, and if it’s good enough for Channing, it’s good enough for us.
9. 1959 Cadillac Miller-Meteor or Ecto 1, as seen in Ghostbusters
If you know who you’re going to call, the Ecto 1 is the car that will get you to them. While it needs a little fixing up, we’re down to ride in a car with Bill Murray any day of the week.
Why we want it: It comes with a siren and a place to store your proton packs. Handy.
8. The 1948 Ford De Luxe Special aka Greased Lightning
There are two different versions of this car in the movie. The white one that the T-Birds build and race, and the red fantasy sequence version. We can’t decide which we like more because who doesn’t want a car that comes with its own theme song and iconic dance sequence, right?
Why we want it: It’s “Automatic, Systematic, Hyyyyyydromatic…”
7. A 2008 Audi RS8, as driven by Tony Stark in Iron Man
Inspired by Iron Man’s suit, the R8 is both intimidating and cool. Audi designed it to blur the boundaries between racecars and luxury vehicles, and those sleek lines seem to get the point across in a subtle and convincing way.
Why we want it: There’s nothing wrong with wanting to be a billionaire playboy philanthropist when you grow up. You might as well drive the same car as one.
6. 1966 Turquoise Ford Thunderbird from Thelma and Louise
Hardly just a girl car, there’s just something about this shiny blue machine that screams liberation and adventure. Truth be told, we’re also big fans of the young and foxy Susan and Geena.
Why we want it: It’s the ultimate getaway car. Just don’t go driving it off any cliffs.
5. 1961 Ferrari 250 GT California aka Cameron Frye’s dad’s Ferrari
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is the quintessential 80s adventure movie that depicts teenage rebellion in the most fun way possible, and Cameron’s dad’s Ferrari is the symbol of freedom we were all looking for in our awkward high school years . The original car that was trashed in the final scene of the movie was just recently restored to its former glory, and will supposedly fetch a price of over $10,000.
Why we want it: It’s built for joy riding and will even survive a jaunt with some unscrupulous parking attendants.
4. 1969 Dodge Charger or The General Lee from Dukes Of Hazard
As much as the movie and TV show left to be desired, this car more than made up for the franchise’s shortcomings. In fact, we might even go as far as to say that The General Lee is proof that a good set of wheels can keep a bad show rolling for six seasons and a movie.
Why we want it: Besides the killer tangerine paint job, you say? That musical horn and all those cool race modifications seem like reasons enough.
3. Jaguar XJ, as seen in SkyFall
Beautifully designed, and ideal for a high-speed chase on the streets of London, the XJ seamlessly creates a driving experience that will excite passenger and driver alike. With luxury interiors, three different engine options, and instinctive all-wheel drive technology, one could say it has a license to thrill.
Why we want it: This car is so cool, it didn’t even require any modifications for the movie. Seriously. It’s that cool.
2. 2009 Chevrolet Camaro aka Bumblebee From Transformers
While the original cartoon portrayed Bumblebee’s vehicle as a plucky yellow Volkswagen Beetle, Michael Bay’s 2001 reboot had favorite Autobot riding as a muscly, suave Camaro. While some fans were disconcerted by the make-over, Bay reasoned with them by explaining that the Beetle reminded him just a little too much of Herbie. We tend to agree.
Why we want it: Because it’s a Transformer. We don’t need any other reasons.
1. 1981 Delorean DMC-12 or Doc Brown’s Delorean from Back To The Future 1, 2 and 3
Why we want it: So we can go back to the future and get us some of those self-tying Nikes and ensure our parents kiss at the Enchantment Under The Sea dance, obviously.
Contact Oregon City Garage Door Today
Having a garage to protect your dream car is as just important as the car itself. If you’re in the market for a new garage door or even if you just need repairs or maintenance, speak to the professionals at Oregon City Garage Door. Give us a call at 503-632-3070 or fill out our online form, and someone will be in touch.
3 Great DIY Garage Organization Tutorial Videos
Three Great DIY Garage Organization Tutorial Videos
We all know that the Internet is just packed full of useful and innovative garage organization ideas. A simple Youtube search will pull thousands of different results for DIY projects, and all those choices might be a little more than overwhelming. Most of us don’t have time to sit there and spend hours trying to find the perfect tutorial for a garage organization DIY project, so we’ve scoured the web to find three of the most helpful video tutorial that will suit most budgets and skill levels. Whether you’re a master craftsman or a total novice, if you’re looking for a way to tidy up your garage – you’re sure to find it here.
1. Hang Tools For Cheap
This is a great video for DIY beginners who don’t have a lot of money or time on their hands. Hanging your tools on your garage walls is made quick and easy thanks to this simple tutorial from Tomahawk DIY. With just a few nails, drywall screws and some plywood, you can minimize mess and clear up some valuable floor space in your garage in no time at all. It’s perfect for the avid gardeners who have a lot of cumbersome rakes and spades lying around. TomahawkDIY’s entire Youtube channel is dedicated to simple and affordable home improvement projects, from repairing your own drainpipes to building a backyard swing set, making it a fantastic resource for DIY beginners.
2. DIY Garage Storage With Adjustable Shelves
This slightly more advanced tutorial shows you hows to build a sturdy garage shelving unit for under $250, using materials from your local hardware store. Don”t be put off by the short length of this video- this project should take the average person about a day to do with the right tools. The great thing about this shelving unit is that the shelves are built to be removable, which allows for endless storing configurations. This will come in handy as time goes by and you inevitably procure more stuff.
3. Sliding Ceiling Storage
Jeff, the man behind Home Repair Tutor is one of the most engaging and passionate DIY personalities on the internet. Every one of his videos is informative, easy to follow and of course, very entertaining. In this video, he shows us how to get the clutter off your garage floor and onto the ceiling, by creating a clever network of sliding overhead storage bins. If you’re looking for a storage solution that will keep things clean and organized, this one is for you. Best of all, it’s pretty cheap to make- with all your supplies fetching a price tag of just over$100. This is a great solution for families who have a lot of holiday decorations. Your garage doesn’t have to look like a Christmas graveyard anymore as the ceiling storage keeps them out of the way during the ‘off season’ but still easily accessible when that time of year comes around again.
If you’re in the market for a new garage door, or even service and repair, give Oregon City Garage Door a call at 503-632-3070. You can also fill out our online form, and one of our experts will be in touch.