For homeowners and business owners in North Idaho and Eastern Washington, including Spokane and the Tri-Cities (Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco), the idea of turning a cluttered, outdated garage into a pristine, functional space can seem daunting. However, with the right steps and materials, you can achieve a durable, low-maintenance garage that stands up to the elements while also looking amazing.

This guide, inspired by a detailed video walkthrough, breaks down the essential stages of a transformative garage renovation. From fixing structural issues to installing sleek and modern finishes, this project goes beyond aesthetics to deliver improved functionality and long-term durability.

The Vision: A Clean, Organized, and Durable Garage

The project begins with a two-car garage in need of attention: drywall marred with holes, inadequate drainage, and a dull, outdated interior. The goal? To turn this average garage into a clean, bright, and organized space that’s perfect for modern living. This process involves:

• Upgrading the concrete floor with proper drainage and a fresh slab.
• Installing TrussCore panels for a sleek, low-maintenance finish.
• Adding functional slat walls for storage and organization.
• Ensuring optimal lighting with high-performance LED fixtures.

With a step-by-step approach, this project creates a space that is not only functional but also visually appealing.

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Step 1: Clearing the Space and Prepping for Renovations

Before any upgrades can begin, the garage must be completely emptied. This includes removing accumulated clutter, outdated fixtures, and damaged drywall. The team carefully removes all unnecessary items and prepares the space for the next phase.

Key Tasks:

• Decluttering: Clear the space to work efficiently.
• Inspecting Existing Walls: Identify damage, such as holes and wear and tear, in the drywall.
• Initial Cleaning: Use a blower or vacuum to remove debris and dust from the surfaces.

By starting with a clean slate, the team ensures every subsequent step is seamless and precise.

Step 2: Addressing the Concrete Floor and Drainage

The existing concrete floor presented a notable issue: it lacked proper drainage, causing water to pool during wet months. To solve this, the team removed a section of the slab, replaced it with a sloped surface, and installed a floor drain.

Steps to Upgrade the Concrete Floor:

1. Cut and Remove Existing Slab: Using cordless concrete saws (e.g., Milwaukee and Makita models), the team carefully cut and removed manageable pieces of the slab to expose the base layer.
2. Install Drainage System: A new adjustable drain was installed to channel water effectively.
3. Re-pour the Concrete: A fresh concrete slab with appropriate slope was poured, ensuring water flows naturally into the drain.

Pro Tip: If you’re reworking concrete, consider hiring professionals to ensure proper slope and finish. For added durability and aesthetics, epoxy coating can later be applied to the cured surface.

Step 3: Installing TrussCore Panels for Walls and Ceiling

TrussCore panels are increasingly popular for garage renovations. These PVC-based panels are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to moisture – making them ideal for spaces like garages, patios, or industrial floors. In this project, the team installed TrussCore on both the walls and ceiling for a polished, modern look.

Installation Process:

1. Plan the Layout: Determine where panels and trims will align, ensuring seamless connections.
2. Install Ceiling Panels First: Ceiling panels were cut to size and installed with screws, with care taken to align them perfectly. An "H-trim" was used to cover seams for a professional finish.
3. Install Wall Panels: Wall panels were mounted vertically, starting at the base. The bottom trim was drilled with drainage holes, allowing water to escape if necessary.
4. Trim Around Fixtures: Windows, doors, and attic openings were trimmed to achieve a clean, finished look.

Key Benefits of TrussCore:

• Moisture Resistance: Panels can be washed and won’t warp from humidity or water exposure.
• Ease of Cleaning: A simple Swiffer or damp cloth can remove dust or dirt.
• Durability: Unlike drywall, TrussCore doesn’t dent or degrade easily.

Step 4: Adding Functional Slat Walls for Storage

Storage is an essential component of any functional garage. This project included the installation of slat walls, which provide a versatile and visually appealing way to organize tools, equipment, and other items.

Why Slat Walls Work:

• Customizable Storage: Hooks, shelves, and baskets can be easily rearranged.
• Durable and Weight-Bearing: Ideal for heavy items like tools or sports equipment.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The slat wall integrates seamlessly with the TrussCore panels, creating a cohesive design.

Step 5: Upgrading Lighting

To create a bright, usable space, the renovation incorporated Cree LED lights. These high-performance lights deliver exceptional brightness and longevity, making them perfect for garages and workshops.

Lighting Installation Tips:

• Use Long LED Fixtures: A 16-foot strip was installed to ensure even illumination.
• Choose Quality Over Cost: While premium lights may be pricier, they offer better value due to their efficiency and lifespan.
• Install Strategically: Position lights to minimize shadows and maximize coverage.

The result is a well-lit garage that’s as practical as it is inviting.

Final Touches: Prepping for an Epoxy Floor

With the foundational upgrades complete, the next step is to apply an epoxy coating to the concrete floor. However, this process requires a 40-day curing period for the new concrete. Once cured, epoxy will enhance both durability and aesthetics, making the garage truly stand out.

Key Takeaways

• Decluttering and Prepping: Start your renovation by clearing the space and addressing any existing damage.
• Concrete Solutions: Fix drainage problems and create a durable foundation with a sloped slab and floor drain.
• TrussCore Panels: Upgrade walls and ceilings with this moisture-resistant, low-maintenance material.
• Storage Optimization: Install slat walls for a functional, customizable storage solution.
• Lighting Matters: High-quality LED fixtures ensure a bright, usable space.
• Plan for Flooring: Epoxy coating provides a durable, visually appealing finish but requires proper curing of the concrete.

Conclusion

This comprehensive garage renovation showcases the power of thoughtful upgrades to transform a utilitarian space into a clean, organized, and functional part of your home. Whether you’re dealing with drainage issues, outdated finishes, or insufficient lighting, the solutions outlined here can help you achieve a long-lasting and visually striking result.

For homeowners in North Idaho and Eastern Washington, this project serves as a blueprint for creating a space that not only enhances your property’s value but also improves your daily living experience. With durable materials like TrussCore, versatile storage solutions, and professional-grade lighting, your garage can become a space you’re proud to show off.

Source: "Major Garage Upgrade Start to Finish" – RR Buildings, YouTube, Sep 6, 2025 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8kk1md_f3w

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