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How to Budget for a Garage Workshop

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How to Budget for a Garage Workshop

Upgrade your garage with a functional workbench and tool wall for about $1500 during seasonal sales.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $1,500 before anything else
Across the 0% window $83.33/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $1,500 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A dedicated workshop turns a messy garage into a place where you actually finish projects. Once the bench is set and your tools are mounted on the wall, you stop hunting for a screwdriver and start building.

Hardware stores run their best sales around Father's Day, so wait for that window. Get at least three quotes if you are hiring someone to build the structure, or price out the raw lumber and pegboard yourself before you commit.

The 0% intro window is a deadline, not free money. If you have a remaining balance after the 18 months are up, the bank will start charging interest on whatever is left over.

The steps

  1. 01

    Map your layout

    Measure your wall space and decide on the bench height that fits your back. Clear out the junk now so you know exactly how much room you have to work with. Sketching it out helps you avoid buying more materials than you actually need.

  2. 02

    Gather your quotes

    Don't just pick the first contractor or store you see. Reach out to three local handymen or lumber yards to compare costs. If you are doing it yourself, compare the price of pre-made benches against the cost of building one from scratch.

  3. 03

    Time the purchase

    Wait for the Father's Day sales in June when hardware retailers drop prices on garage storage and tools. If you buy during this window, you can often save hundreds on the bench and the wall organization systems.

  4. 04

    Use the Citi Simplicity Credit Card

    If you need to spread out the $1500 cost, this card offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This lets you pay roughly $83.33 per month over that 18-month window without paying interest, provided you pay on time.

  5. 05

    Set up auto-pay

    Divide your total cost by the number of months in your intro window to find your payment goal. Set up an automatic payment for that amount so you do not miss a deadline. This keeps you on track to finish paying before the interest kicks in.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Should I build the bench or buy it?

Building it yourself is cheaper but takes time and tools. Buying pre-made is faster, but you pay a premium for the convenience.

What tools do I need for a basic wall?

You need a drill, a level, and a stud finder. Mounting heavy tools requires finding the studs in your wall for safety.

How much should I budget for accessories?

Pegboard hooks and bins add up fast. Set aside an extra $200 on top of your bench budget just for these small storage items.

Is the interest really zero?

It is 0% on the purchase balance during the 18 months. You must pay at least the minimum monthly amount to keep this benefit active.