Setting up a workshop in your unfinished or finished basement is an excellent use of the below-ground space. You don't have to worry about putting away the tools, supplies and other materials you are working with and you don't have to junk up your garage with power tools. There are a number of ideas on set up your basement workshop --- from installing pegboard to hold tools to connecting a computer in the workspace for tracking projects and design plans.
Pegboard and Cabinets for Storage
Instead of purchasing metal shelves and cabinets, purchase and install wooden cabinets on the walls of your workshop. Place the cabinets on the top portion of the walls and then install pegboard underneath to hold your tools. Paint the pegboard and cabinets a bright color to keep the workshop from being dark and gloomy. Tip: purchase your wooden cabinets from a salvage store to save money.
Install a Computer to Track Workshop Plans and Information
Need a way to keep up with all those building plans and projects? Why not install a computer and printer in your workshop? If you have an extra one around the house, use it or buy one on eBay. After the system is installed, run a Ethernet cable down to the basement or use a wireless connection to have the Internet on that system. See the Resources section below for home project/home improvement software for the system.
Rollers On Workbenches and Carts
Instead of having stationary workbenches and carts, install rollers on the items so you can move the equipment around the workshop with ease. If money is an issue, build a workbench and cart out of surplus wood you may have around the workshop. Paint the items a bright color to match the other items in the workshop.
Extra Insulation for Heat
Basements are generally cooler than other parts of the house. To keep the area from being too chilly, install an extra layer of insulation on the walls of your workshop before installing cabinets or other storage items. Then cover the walls with plywood or dry wall. If the walls are already finished, place an extra row of insulation around any openings (windows, door frames, cracks at the bottom or top of the walls) and then cover the material with a row of trim and use caulking to seal. The key is to keep drafts out and heat in.
Install a Intercom, Telephone Television
No basement workshop is complete without a means of communication and keeping up with the latest game. Purchase and install a simple two-way intercom to keep in touch with others upstairs. Then install a telephone in the workshop in case you need to make a call. Finally, dig out that extra television and stick it in the workshop. Run a cable or satellite connection down to the set and you can work on your latest project and keep up with your favorite team.
