For aspiring entrepreneurs, there comes a time when launching a business makes sense. The independence of working for oneself and the potential for profits are too great to resist. Such individuals often do not have a spare room they can convert into an office. Lucky for them, a garage makes a suitable alternative.
Preparing the Space
The first step is cleaning. Removing everything is necessary. Now is a good time for separating trash from items that are still usable. Junk hauling companies take away refuse for a reasonable fee. Many thrift stores make pickups for donatable items.
Dish soap, cat litter, and a wire brush can eliminate motor oil stains. Mold, on the other hand, is a serious matter. Left untreated, it may spread. Bleach solutions are capable of destroying spores, but safety measures remain necessary. Hire a professional removal service if toxic strains are present.
Adding Lights
Illumination makes garages feel more like professional spaces. If seeing clients in your home office, ceiling lighting makes a better impression than standalone desk lamps. There are many options available. Hiring a lighting designer often makes the decision easier.
When the weather allows, opening the garage door lets in natural sunlight. Besides cutting down on electrical costs, the sun’s rays have natural health benefits.
Keeping Cool
Working becomes tougher when temperatures are high. Staying cool helps. One way of combatting the heat is by installing a ceiling fan. Improving insulation is another wise decision. If drywall is already in place, blown-in insulation is an option. Otherwise, other forms are easily installable, one type being Batt insulation.
Once these projects are complete, it feels good to lean back with a cold beverage. Having a drinks fridge is especially welcome on sweltering days. Precautions can prevent overheating breakdowns. Alternatively, get a freezer and treat yourself to an ice cream sandwich or popsicle.
Protecting Against Storms
Garages are vulnerable to acts of nature. Destruction happens in the blink of an eye. It is particularly distressing to think about work-related data getting erased from flooding or electrical surges. Weather observers say that, on average, six large hurricanes cause havoc every decade. Depending on the location, the danger to a garage office can be more or less severe.
Hurricane shutters are an excellent form of protection. Be aware that some states require a permit for installation. When hurricanes are particularly fierce, whole homes get destroyed. It is best to have a storm shelter nearby for physical security. One can be dug right into the floor of a garage. There are many companies specializing in protective spaces, but there is still the option of making one without assistance. Only advanced builders should attempt a project of this magnitude.
Incorporating the Business
Anyone taking the time to create a garage office should consider the benefits of registering as a Limited Liability Company, including less paperwork, tax advantages, operational flexibility, and limited liability. Hiring a lawyer to incorporate your venture as an LLC is often expensive. Paying an attorney can be avoided by filing independently. Every state has different regulations when it comes to forming LLCs. Business owners following this path should check the rules before taking action. You can easily open LLC in Florida using an online formation service.
Remodeling a garage into an office is a worthwhile endeavor. Those interested in using such spaces for work purposes have many tasks before them. Despite the challenges, the results are likely to be satisfying.
