Even the thought of organizing the garage is enough to bring some men to their knees (and of course it doesn’t help when it is not your idea to do so, but that’s another thing altogether); but the sooner you get it done the better off you will be and the more peace you will likely have as well.

One of the most important things to remember is that when you organize your garage you will need to designate a place for everything while still ensuring that all of your items are easily accessible. If possible start by taking everything out of the garage, just pile it onto the driveway or grass and then begin sorting everything into different categories such as lawn maintenance items, toys, electric tools, sporting equipment, etc. Of course, be sure to throw away all items that are broken beyond repair (yes that includes those that you think you may be able to fix…someday) and items that you no longer need.

Start by installing some type of a hanging rack for those lawn tools which helps to keep them within easy reach while keeping them out of the way and providing you with more space. You can either make one yourself of purchase one pre-made and install it or have someone install it for you if you are not sure of your own capabilities (hey, you do not have to tell anyone that you didn’t do it yourself).

It is also a good idea to have enough room to rotate seasonal items; for example when it is close to winter make sure to have shovels, snow blowers, sleds, etc. easy to get to and likewise during the summer be sure to have any outdoor furniture accessories, toys or pool accessories where you can get to them quickly.

You can also gain some additional storage space by installing cabinets or shelves which again you can do yourself or hire someone to do for you. Free standing cabinets are also a good idea for some sporting equipment, toys and the materials that you need for things like washing your car.

It may seem like an intimidating job but once it is done you will wonder why you didn’t do it sooner and you may just get a special dinner out of the deal for being such a great “handyman”.

With spring and summer fast approaching it is time to start thinking about your yard and gardening tools replacing or repairing as necessary. Backyard tools can only work so well without having any type of maintenance; if your hose leaks you will waste water and money, etc. Here are a few tips on what you can do to ensure that your yard tools are in good working order.

Start with the lawnmower as it is one of the major yard tools and change the filter if you have not done so since last year; if it is a paper filter then replace it, otherwise you can take it out and clean it with soapy warm water. After disconnecting the spark plug turn it over on its side and clean out the old debris and grass, using a screwdriver or something similar for difficult clumps. You can also use the water hose to help spray it clean; using a disinfecting cleaner if your yard had any kind of a fungus.

Another one of the backyard tools to check is the gardening water hose, check it carefully for cracks and holes. If you only have a minor crack or hole you can choose to repair it using something like plumbing tape but check it often to be sure that it holds and doesn’t leak. If you use more than one hose then be sure to check the washers where the two connect together; you can pick up replacement washers at any hardware or home store.

Weed-eaters are also yard tools that come in very handy; the amount of area that you need to edge and the number of plants or trees that you need to get around has a lot to do with the type of weed-eater that you should get. Your local home store can offer valuable advice on which model to get as well as the pros and cons of gas or electric ones. Just be sure that the base guard and the handle are on securely before starting so that they do not fly off or slip while operating it.

Your supply of gardening backyard tools should also include some kind of hedge clippers; to ensure that the blades are sharp use heavy gauge grit sandpaper or take them to a shop to have them sharpened in order to keep your shrub lines clean.