Basement Refinishing 101Basement Refinishing 101

Do you dread opening your garage door for fear of being crushed by falling boxes filled with old Christmas decorations and baby clothes you'll never need again? Is your once-pristine, enviable garage in serious need of upgrades or minor improvements? Don't put off this chore any longer and instead, here are a few simple, cost-effective ways you can improve your garage's look and functionality, and each can be done in a single weekend:

Upgrade Your Doors and Windows

If you only have two days and a few hundred dollars to spare, one of the best ways to make your garage more attractive and safer is to upgrade the windows and doors – including the garage door.

When it comes to your windows, there are many, attractive options available. However, whether you choose pricey, double-paned windows or a more cost-effective single-pane windows, the Family Handyman recommends taking one step further by including a few safety features.

For example, installing bars or even expensive blinds on your new windows can help make your garage less attractive to burglars.

Upgrading your garage door is another relatively cost-effective choice, and there are many options to choose from. Before you become overwhelmed by the options, Freshome recommends considering your choices based on your budget, climate and if you have kids:

• Wood, Metal or Fiberglass – You might fall in love with wood, but they are often the most expensive option. Metal is more cost-effective and according to Freshome, a great option if the weather in your area is unpredictable. Finally, if you live in an area that gets oppressively hot in the summer and cold in the winter, Freshome recommends choosing fiberglass.

• Remember Your Home's Style – A custom, carriage-style door is beautiful, but might not look right if you have a modern, sleek home. While shopping, keep your home's architectural style in mind. Click here for more information.

• Don't Forget Your Kids – Garage doors featuring large, elegant windows make a bold statement, but they're not practical if you have kids who love to play baseball in the backyard.

Organize and Add Storage

If your budget and timeline are tight, the best way to utilize both is by purchasing some extra storage and building-up a sweat organizing your garage.

Start by purging your garage of everything that is broken or you simply don't use. Once your garage is completely empty and thoroughly cleaned, create different zones based on your family's needs. For example, if your kids are sports nuts, purchase some heavy-duty storage and dedicate a corner to organizing their hockey sticks, figure skates and basketballs.

Garage space is tight for many homeowners, which is why looking up is often the simplest solution to your problem. There are several, inexpensive storage units that can be installed to the rafters of your garage's ceiling in a matter of hours.

Much like your garage door, it's vital to keep the safety of your children in mind when organizing and purchasing new storage options. For example, purchase sturdy wall shelving, hang it above your child's reach and use it to store your power tools, car parts or unused paint. A cabinet with a sturdy lock is another way to safely hold everything you don't want your kids to grab!

Upgrading your garage in a single weekend won't be easy, but it is possible. The key is to choose a project you can realistically afford and can tackle yourself during these two days. You'll have to give up sleeping in on Saturday or attending a barbeque on Sunday afternoon, but the sacrifices are well worth being able to enjoy your newly organized, safer garage!