wasupdu

We just built a new house and I'm looking for ways to finish off the garage and what tools that I might need. I've researched epoxy floor coating and since our temps can reach -30F in the winter + the salt that gets dragged into the garage I've pretty much come to the conclusion that a "professional" garage floor is not attainable up here. If anyone has suggestions based on the climate please let me know.

In addition, I consider myself fairly handy around the house, but I have no idea where I should start in terms of tools. Can someone please let me know what I should pick up? I can probably pull together $2k max.

thx

craigm1841

2K wont even get you a nice snap-on tool box.

my brother just dropped 9K on a matco tool box

craigm1841

okay, i was just thinking... look at craftsman stuff. get a nice toolbox and chest, mechanics tool set, air compressor and some air tools, should all be under 2K

Curmudgeon

Depends on what kind of work you plan on doing. Do you want tools for working on cars or both cars and around the home? You really don't indicate. If it is cars only, then what level, oil changes or tranny drops? Then there is the old adage "You can never have enough tools."

I would rethink the garage floor. When the salt gets dragged in, water from melting snow followed by freezing temps your concrete floor could start spalling. What do your friends, neighbors, local shops have?

Craig's ideas are a good start, but since you are posting on a BMW forum, I assume you have a BMW. A basic mechanics tool set will be incomplete for working on these cars. You will also need a full set of star drivers and sockets plus metric. Harbor Freight in addition to Sears can help you. (Insert usual disclaimer).

"Finish off the garage" means what exactly? Just the floor? Is it drywalled? Insulated? Is there a ceiling or are the rafters open? Will it be heated? The first thing you will need is a comfortable working environment.

HTH

v_therussian

I don't know much, but I know that the above is 1000000% true

MidnightRider

I recommend staying away from the Rustoleum brand epoxy garage floor product. Several folks in my neighborhood including myself have this stuff peeling up all over. Despite great floor preparation, this product does not perform as advertised. If it was just me, I would think differently but all of my neighbors have the same issue. It does not even isolate itself to hot tire pickup as it is all over the garage including walking areas. Stay away.