I recently purchased my first home and have just started getting into woodworking. I'm trying to figure out how to create a safe and structurally sound lumber storage system on the wall of my garage. I'm considering a few options, like pre-made racks I found online, but I'm uncertain about the appropriate screw sizes or whether they would damage the studs in my garage. I also have some thoughts about ceiling storage but I'm hesitant to drill into the trusses. Any advice on building this storage while ensuring safety would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
3 Answers
If you're considering a DIY approach, here's a thought: build a vertical rack using 2x4s or 2x2s. This design allows you to store long lumber upright and shorter pieces on shelves. It can be super strong if you screw a plywood panel across the back to connect to the studs. I’ve done this in my shop and it’s held a ton of weight without any issues!
The second option you're looking at (the Bora rack) is actually rated for quite a bit of weight—around 600 lbs! You’d have to worry about 2000+ lbs to risk pulling out standard screws, so you're probably safe mounting that. Just make sure to check your wall condition before starting!
That’s reassuring! I’m still figuring things out but I feel better knowing it’s sturdy.
Building your own lumber rack is a great idea! You'll have full control over the dimensions and materials, making it a fun starter project. Plus, it'll likely be cheaper than buying a pre-made solution. Many beginners start with wall cleats, which are solid and easy to install. Just remember to secure it to the studs properly!
Yeah, I love that idea! I’m working on a few other projects right now, so this will just be a temporary solution.

That sounds good! I think vertical storage is definitely the way to go for saving space.