Garage Maintenance

There are a few simple steps you can take to make your garage a safer place. This is especially true with attached garages because anything in the garage can find its way into your home. Never run engines in your garage, even with the overhead door open. Chemicals and fuels should be kept separately in sealed containers.

Time Needed:	30 minutes
Frequency:	seasonally
Number of steps:	3
Tools you might need:	plastic storage containers with lids
Skill level:	easy
What if I don’t do this?	Toxic fumes will be drawn into your home on a regular basis

Step 1: Proper Operation

The door connecting the home to the garage should be kept closed tightly at all times when not in use. Contact a qualified service company if overhead door does not close or open properly. See also: Door and Storm Door Maintenance

Step 2: Safe Practices

Automobiles, snow blowers, lawn mowers and other internal combustion engines should never be run in the garage. Never grill food in garage. These activities cause dangerous gases and odors to accumulate in the garage which will migrate into the home.

Step 3: Plan Ahead For Safety

Pesticides, fertilizers, gasoline, and other chemicals should be kept in tightly sealed containers. Potentially harmful fumes, vapors, and odors can migrate into your home. Different chemicals should never be stored in the same container.

RELATED LINKS AND FILES

Garage Maintenance Checklist.pdf (Acrobat - 37K)