The Workshop

Decorating a workshop can be a fun and exciting task, especially if you’re a fan of classic pop culture icons like Back to the Future, Knight Rider, and Ghostbusters. One way to show off your love for these franchises is by adding decorative license plates to your workshop walls. Not only do they add a unique touch to your space, but they also serve as a great conversation starter with your visitors. Reproduction Decorative License Plates I bought these plates from TEMU, a fairly new e-commerce company. They’re listed as metal tin signs and there’s 8 different license plates available. If you haven’t purchased from TEMU before, it can take a couple of weeks, but I’ve ordered a handful of items so far. Back to the Future License Plates Let’s start with Back to the Future. This iconic film franchise has captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world with its time-traveling adventures and unforgettable characters. One of the most recognizable elements of the movies is the DeLorean time machine, which features a customized license plate reading “OUTATIME”. I also purchased the “2015” license plate that was used in the sequil movie. Knight Rider License Plate Next up is Knight Rider, a classic 80s TV show that starred a talking, crime-fighting car named KITT. The show’s signature license plate read “KNIGHT” and it’s an instantly recognizable symbol of the series. Adding this license plate to your workshop wall will show off your love for this beloved show and its futuristic technology. You could even pair it with a KITT replica model to create a truly immersive display. Ghostbuster Ecto-1 License Plate Finally, we have Ghostbusters, a classic 80s film that blended comedy, horror, and science fiction in a unique and unforgettable way. The Ghostbusters car, a converted 1959 Cadillac Miller-Meteor ambulance, featured a license plate that read “ECTO-1”. This plate has become a symbol of the franchise.. It’s a great way to pay homage to the classic film and its iconic vehicle. Mounting the License Plates I just screwed the plates into a horizontal 2×6 of the wall of my pole building. I did this with some other license plates as well. Others may have other creative ideas for mounting including lighted frames, but I opted for a quick and easy install for now. Build Quality These license plates are a standard size plate. I’m not sure what gauge metal they’re made out of, but they’re a bit thinner than state issued plates. While the letters are NOT raised, the edge of the frame is embossed, so these are completely flat. In conclusion, decorative license plates from Back to the Future, Knight Rider, and Ghostbusters are a great way to add a unique touch to your workshop while showing off your love for these classic pop culture icons. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just appreciate the nostalgia these franchises evoke, adding these plates to your decor is sure to make your workshop a conversation starter for years to come.

For many people, a garage is much more than a place to park their cars. It is often a space for hobbies, projects, and other creative endeavors. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast, a woodworker, or an automobile enthusiast, having a well-organized workshop garage is essential. Staying organized helps make the most of your space and keeping your tools and equipment safe and easily accessible. In this article, we will explore some practical tips and strategies for organizing your workshop. From organization and maximizing storage space to creating dedicated workstations, these ideas can help you transform your garage into a functional and inviting workspace. Whether you have a large, wide open shop or smaller space, we’ll cover tips anyone can use. Several of this strategies are based on a methodology called 5S Kaizen. I was first introduced to this method when I was working in the medical device industry. Our supervisor over the incoming quality assurance area revamped his department based on 5S, and the results were quite noticeable! Other departments took notice and started implementing 5S themselves. What is 5S Kaizen 5S is a workplace method of organizing that involves five steps: Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain. It aims to create an efficient and organized workspace by eliminating clutter, organizing tools and materials, cleaning regularly, establishing clear workflows, and maintaining the improvements over time. The method originated in Japan and has been widely adopted in manufacturing, healthcare, and service industries around the world. Stick with me here, and we’ll dive into how 5S can be applied to your workshop. Apply The Five Steps of 5S to Your Workshop: Additional Tips Create Dedicated Workstations In addition to storage, it’s important to create dedicated workstations in your workshop garage. This will help you stay organized and efficient while working on projects. Think about the types of projects you typically work on and create dedicated workstations for each one. For example, if you enjoy woodworking, you might have a dedicated workstation for your saws, drills, and other woodworking tools. If you enjoy auto repair, you might have a dedicated workstation for your tools and equipment related to car repair. When creating your workstations, think about the flow of your workspace. You want to make sure that each workstation is easily accessible and that you can move from one workstation to another without any obstacles or clutter. Label Everything Labeling is an important part of workshop garage organization. It helps you keep track of your tools and equipment and ensures that everything has a designated spot. Consider using a labeling system that is easy to read and understand. You might use a label maker to create clear and legible labels for each item, or you might use a color-coded system to group items by category. You can have silhouette vinyl or silkscreening on your pegboards to know what tool goes where. In addition to labeling your tools and equipment, it’s also important to label your storage containers. This will help you quickly find what you need and ensure that everything is returned to its proper place after use. Conclusion Organizing your workshop garage can be a challenging task, but it is essential to creating a functional and efficient workspace. By decluttering and sorting your items, maximizing your storage space, creating dedicated workstations, labeling everything, and maintaining your space, you can transform your garage into a place where you can work on projects and pursue your hobbies with ease. Remember, a well-organized workshop garage not only makes your projects easier, but it can also increase your productivity, creativity, and enjoyment of your hobbies.

Barrina LED shop lights have become a popular choice for many people who are looking for a lighting solution that is both compact and bright. These lights are designed to provide exceptional illumination for your workspace while using minimal energy. In this article, we will explore how to install Barrina LED shop lights and their specifications in more detail. I tried a couple other lighting options for my workshop, but ended up returning them after poor design flaws that either made their install less than ideal or sub-par lighting performance. After coming across the Barrina LED lights, I’ve also added them to our carport and will be adding at least one more inside of our shed. Overview of Barrina LED Shop Lights Barrina LED shop lights are designed to provide bright and efficient lighting for garages, workshops, basements, and other spaces where you need high-quality illumination. These lights come in various lengths, from 4ft to 8ft, and are available in different color temperatures ranging from 4000k to 6500k. One of the main benefits of Barrina LED shop lights is their compact design. These lights are very slim and lightweight, making them easy to install and use. They are also linkable, which means that you can connect multiple lights together to create a continuous strip of lighting. This feature is particularly useful if you have a larger workspace that requires more illumination. Another advantage of Barrina LED shop lights is their energy efficiency. These lights consume much less energy than traditional fluorescent or incandescent bulbs, which means that they are cost-effective and environmentally friendly. In addition, they have a long lifespan, so you don’t need to replace them as often as other types of bulbs. Installing Barrina LED Shop Lights Installing Barrina LED shop lights is a straightforward process that can be done with minimal tools and experience. Here are the steps to follow: Step 1: Choose the Location The first step in installing Barrina LED shop lights is to choose the location where you want to install them. You should select a spot that provides optimal lighting for your workspace and is accessible for wiring and mounting the lights. Step 2: Prepare the Area Once you have selected the location, you need to prepare the area for installation. This involves clearing any obstacles or debris that might interfere with the installation process. You should also turn off the power to the area where you plan to install the lights to avoid any electrical accidents. Step 3: Mount the Light Fixture The next step is to mount the light fixture on the ceiling or wall. Barrina LED shop lights come with mounting brackets that you can use to attach the lights to the surface. You should use a level to ensure that the lights are straight and even. Step 4: Connect the Wiring After mounting the lights, you need to connect the wiring. Barrina LED shop lights come with a power cord that you can use to connect the lights to a power source. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for wiring the lights to ensure that they are properly connected and safe to use. Step 5: Turn on the Power Once you have connected the wiring, you can turn on the power to the area where you have installed the lights. You should test the lights to ensure that they are working correctly and providing adequate illumination for your workspace. Specifications of Barrina LED Shop Lights Barrina LED shop lights come in various sizes and specifications that you can choose based on your lighting needs. Here are some of the specifications of Barrina LED shop lights: Conclusion Barrina LED shop lights are a great lighting solution for anyone looking to brighten up their workspace. With their compact design, energy efficiency, and long lifespan, these lights provide excellent value for money. Installing these lights is a simple process that can be done with minimal tools and experience, making them an ideal choice for DIY enthusiasts. Whether you’re working in a garage, workshop, or basement, Barrina LED shop lights provide the bright, efficient lighting that you need to get the job done.

Rodents are a common problem for homeowners and businesses alike. They can cause significant damage to properties, including chewing through wires, insulation, and even structural components. Pole buildings are particularly susceptible to rodent infestations because of their construction, which often leaves gaps at the bottom of the siding that rats and mice can easily squeeze through. However, with the right preventative measures in place, it is possible to keep rodents out of your pole building and protect your investment. One of the most effective ways to prevent rodents from entering your pole building is to install rodent barriers at the bottom of the siding. These barriers are designed to close the gap between the siding and the ground, preventing rodents from crawling underneath. There are a variety of different types of rodent barriers available on the market, including metal flashing, mesh screens, and vinyl strips. Did you know mice can fit through gaps as small as approximately 1/4″? Stuffing steel wool into gaps can also help. Rodents cannot chew through steel wool, making it an excellent option for sealing up gaps and cracks. When using steel wool as a rodent barrier, it is important to make sure that the wool is tightly packed into the gap, as rodents can squeeze through even the smallest of openings. Inspect Regularly It is also important to inspect your pole building regularly for signs of rodent activity. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, and nesting materials, which can all indicate that rodents are present. If you do notice any signs of rodent activity, it is important to take action immediately to prevent the problem from getting worse. In some cases, it may be best to contact a local pest professional. Insulation and Vapor Barriers Rodents can also cause significant damage to insulation and vapor barriers. Insulation is often made from materials that rodents love to nest in, such as fiberglass and cellulose. When rodents nest in insulation, they can compress it, reducing its effectiveness and causing it to lose its insulating properties. Rodents can also create significant odors. Vapor barriers, which are designed to prevent moisture from entering your pole building. When rodents chew through vapor barriers, moisture can enter your pole building, leading to mold and other issues. To prevent damage to insulation and vapor barriers, it is important to keep rodents out of your pole building in the first place. By installing rodent barriers and sealing up gaps and cracks, you can create a barrier that is difficult for rodents to penetrate. The exterior should have metal trim, some times referred to as rodent barriers. Without this piece of metal to close up the bottom of your pole building, it’s almost an on-ramp for small rodents to gain access. Be Mindful of What You’re Storing It is also important to be mindful of what you store in your pole building, as certain items can attract rodents. Food sources, such as pet food and birdseed, should be stored in airtight containers to prevent rodents from getting to them. Cardboard boxes and other nesting materials should also be avoided, as rodents can use them to build their nests. If you do notice signs of rodent activity in your pole building, there are a variety of different options for getting rid of them. One of the most common methods is to use traps, which can be baited with peanut butter or other attractants. There are also a variety of different types of poisons and repellents available, although these should be used with caution, as they can be harmful to pets and children. Peppermint oil based products can help, but will be substantially diluted when used outdoors. Summary Ultimately, the best way to prevent rodents from getting into your pole building is to take preventative measures in the first place. By sealing up gaps and cracks, installing rodent barriers, and being mindful of what you store in your pole building, you can create a space that is uninviting to rodents. By taking these steps, you can protect your investment and ensure that your pole building remains in good condition for years to come. Another effective way to prevent rodent infestations is to keep the surrounding area clean and tidy. This means removing any debris or clutter around the pole building that can provide rodents with a place to hide or build their nests. Keep grass and shrubbery trimmed to reduce hiding places for rodents, and store firewood and other materials at least 20 feet away from the pole building. It is also important to address any moisture issues in and around your pole building. Rodents are attracted to areas with moisture, as it provides them with a source of drinking water. Inspect your pole building for any leaks, and make sure that the gutters and downspouts are functioning properly to divert water away from the building. If you do notice signs of a rodent infestation, it is important to take action immediately. Rodents can reproduce quickly, and a small problem can quickly turn into a larger one if left untreated. In addition to the damage they can cause to your pole building, rodents can also carry diseases that can be harmful to humans and pets. If you are dealing with a large or persistent rodent infestation, it may be best to hire a professional pest control company. They can assess the extent of the infestation and provide you with a variety of different treatment options. They can also provide guidance on preventative measures you can take to keep rodents out of your pole building in the future. Preventing rodent infestations in your pole building requires a combination of preventative measures and regular inspections. By sealing up gaps and cracks, installing rodent barriers, and being mindful of what you store in your pole building, you can create a space that is uninviting to rodents. Regular inspections can help you detect signs of rodent activity early, allowing you to take action before the problem gets out of hand.

Pegboards have been a popular storage solution for decades, used in garages, workshops, and homes. Traditional pegboards are made of wood or plastic and feature evenly spaced holes where pegs can be inserted to hold tools and other items. However, in recent years, a new type of pegboard has emerged that offers numerous advantages over traditional pegboards. This type of pegboard is called Wall Control metal pegboard, and it has quickly become the preferred choice for those looking for an efficient, customizable, and durable storage solution. In this article, we will explore the key features that make Wall Control metal pegboards better than traditional pegboards. I’ll also be updating this post with installation information for my particular use case in a pole building which lacks the 16″ on-center studs a stick built shop or garage would have. Durability One of the most significant advantages of Wall Control metal pegboards is their durability. Unlike traditional pegboards that are made of wood or plastic, Wall Control pegboards are made of heavy-duty steel, which makes them more resistant to wear and tear. They are less likely to crack, break or warp, which is especially important in an environment like a garage or workshop where heavy tools are used. Additionally, the powder-coated finish on Wall Control metal pegboards makes them more resistant to scratches and rust. This means that they will maintain their appearance over time and continue to look good even after years of use. Customizability Another major advantage of Wall Control metal pegboards is their customizability. Traditional pegboards have fixed hole patterns, which limits the types of items that can be hung on them. Wall Control pegboards, on the other hand, feature a unique hole pattern that allows for more flexibility in organizing tools and other items. The holes on Wall Control pegboards are spaced at 1-inch intervals both vertically and horizontally, which means that pegs and accessories can be placed anywhere on the board. This provides greater flexibility in how items are organized, making it possible to store more items in a smaller space. In addition to the flexibility of the hole pattern, Wall Control metal pegboards offer a wide variety of accessories that can be used to further customize the storage space. These accessories include hooks, shelves, baskets, and tool holders, among others. These accessories can be easily moved around on the pegboard, making it easy to reorganize the storage space as needed. Efficiency Wall Control metal pegboards are also more efficient than traditional pegboards. The customizability of the hole pattern and accessories means that items can be stored more efficiently, taking up less space and making it easier to find what you need when you need it. In addition, the sturdy construction of Wall Control metal pegboards means that they can hold more weight than traditional pegboards. This allows you to store heavier items without worrying about the board sagging or breaking. Ease of Installation Finally, Wall Control metal pegboards are easier to install than traditional pegboards. Traditional pegboards are typically mounted on wooden strips that are attached to the wall. This process can be time-consuming and requires a certain level of skill to ensure that the board is level and secure. Wall Control metal pegboards, on the other hand, are designed to be mounted directly to the wall. The pegboards come with mounting hardware that makes installation a breeze. Additionally, the unique hole pattern on Wall Control metal pegboards makes it easy to align the board with the studs in the wall, ensuring a secure installation. Conclusion In conclusion, Wall Control metal pegboards offer numerous advantages over traditional pegboards. Their durability, customizability, efficiency, and ease of installation make them a superior storage solution for garages, workshops, and homes. Whether you are looking to organize your tools, craft supplies, or other items, Wall Control metal pegboards provide a versatile and reliable solution that will meet your needs for years to come.