If you're like most Americans, one of your concerns may be lack of storage space. For added room, sometimes all you need to do is more fully utilize what you already have. For example, as we’ve pointed out in the past, you can add an extra clothes pole to your closet for under $15 and double its hanging capacity. Doing so might eliminate the need for a dresser, and result in a more spacious bedroom.

If you haven't installed shelves in your garage, you haven't taken advantage of a tremendous storage resource. You may also consider your crawlspace or the attic. Several internet companies offer solutions that allow you to build a floor in an attic using 16-inch or two-foot square plastic tiles. The tiles are screwed to the joist and interlock for strength. A thin layer of concrete poured and finished over a sheet of plastic can convert an otherwise dirty, dusty subarea into a basement like area suitable for everything from luggage to dishes to holiday decorations.

For garage shelves, diagonally-braced “L” brackets can be used. Or, if you're handy, you can make your own brackets and save money. Here’s how:
• First, use a level or measuring tape and straight edge to pencil in a horizontal line the full length of the shelf that you intend to install. This line marks the bottom of the shelf.
• It is important to consider wall stud location when adding shelves to a wall. Begin the pencil line at a location where it slightly overlaps a stud. The other end of the line also should just overlap a stud. This will insure that the shelf is positively connected “end-to-end.”
• Using nails or constructions screws install a 1x3 wood shelf support (ledger) aligning its top edge with the pencil line. The widest face of the ledger should be parallel to the wall. Secure the ledger with at least two fasters at each stud location. This is the shelf’s rear support strip.
• With a helper holding the shelf in place (on the ledger and firmly against the wall), screw or nail the back edge of the shelf to the ledger.
• With the rear portion of the shelf properly supported you need only add an angled brace (at approximately a 45 degree angle) between the underside of the front edge of the shelf and the wall. If you are making your own braces use 2x4’s on edge and miter each and at opposing 45 degree angles.

If mitering or toe-nailing isn’t your cup of tea, you can use 2x2 wood posts between the floor and the underside of the shelf. Metal brackets can be used to connect the bottom post to the garage floor. Similar posts can be placed on the top of the lowest shelf extending to the underside of the next higher shelf. It is important to remember to vertically align the posts from bottom to top. This will maximize support. A piece of 1x12 shelving should be supported every 32 inches.