Homeowners seeking out more space for storing their belongings may overlook one of the most adaptable and low cost options simply because of its name. Portable garages may call to mind images of vehicle storage, but the name is limiting because they can do much more than just provide shelter for motorcycles, cars, and RVs. With a little creativity, it's easy to envision the wide variety of ways in which portable garages can be put to use.

Portable Storage Shed

Homes that lack basements or other indoor storage space can benefit from a portable garage. Instead of taking their boxes of belongings to a storage facility that charges for its services, homeowners can choose to store their personal items in a portable garage. A portable garage is located conveniently 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. As a result, 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 can also serve as an excellent alternative to traditional sheds. Tools, lawnmowers, and garden supplies can be stored dependably in a portable garage. Additionally, portable garages make ideal storage areas for seasonal items. In summer, the portable garage can house snow shovels, snow blowers, and snowmobiles. In winter, it can keep patio furniture, pool supplies, and lawn games protected until warmer weather comes again.

Expanded Workspace

Additional workspace is often on the wish lists of homeowners who spend time working from home. Workshops and art studios can be extended and grown thanks to the addition of a portable garage. Since portable garages have a door on both ends, moving large or cumbersome machines, tools, 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 ultimate ventilation, which is essential when paints or other chemicals are being used. Also, homeowners can make use of space heaters in winter so that work can continue year round. Before using a heater, though, it's important to be sure that the fabric covering the portable garage is fire retardant and that the heater is sitting a safe distance from the garage walls.

People Shelters

Aside from serving as a handy workspace, portable garages can provide much needed shelter for people in a number of other circumstances. At work, employees who wish to enjoy a cigarette break may appreciate the shelter of a portable garage, especially on snowy or rainy days. At home, portable garages provide 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 portable garages can even be used as party tents and cozy outdoor rooms where family and friends can gather and mingle.

The phrase "portable garage" simply does not do justice to this versatile structure. When portable garages are considered as useful only for vehicle storage, their possibilities are clearly overlooked. Keeping an open mind and looking beyond the obvious will provide homeowners with the unexpected benefits inherent in portable garages.