8 Garage Projects Every Dad Tackled in the ‘90s
If you grew up in the ‘90s, you probably remember how much time dads spent in the garage. That space wasn’t just for parking cars — it was the unofficial workshop, storage zone, and sometimes even a weekend hangout.
While garages today might be packed with smart tools and wall systems, back then, the projects were more about practicality and making things last. Here are a few garage projects that defined the ‘90s.
Building DIY Shelves
Back before prefab shelving units were easy to grab at big-box stores, a lot of dads cut their own 2x4s and plywood to create storage. These shelves held paint cans, old sports gear, and boxes of holiday decorations. They weren’t pretty, but they got the job done and usually lasted forever.
Tinkering with Lawnmowers
Every spring, the mower got rolled into the garage for a tune-up. Spark plugs, oil changes, blade sharpening — many dads knew how to handle it all themselves. It was less about saving money and more about the pride of keeping equipment running. You didn’t call a shop unless the mower completely died.
Organizing with Pegboard
Pegboard was practically a garage staple in the ‘90s. Dads hung every wrench, hammer, and saw on those perforated boards, usually outlined in Sharpie so each tool had a “home.” It wasn’t fancy, but it made sure tools didn’t wander off, especially if kids borrowed them.
Fixing Bikes
Flat tires, slipped chains, squeaky brakes — every kid’s bike eventually rolled into the garage for a tune-up. Many dads had a patch kit and an air pump ready, and fixing bikes was a common Saturday afternoon project. It was cheaper than a shop visit and taught kids to handle basic maintenance.
Painting or Staining Projects
From wooden shelves to picnic tables, there was almost always something getting a fresh coat of paint or stain in the garage. Drop cloths went down, windows got cracked open, and the smell of oil-based products hung in the air for days. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was part of weekend life.
Car Care
Even if they weren’t mechanics, a lot of dads did their own oil changes and brake pad swaps in the ‘90s. Washing and waxing cars in the driveway was also a routine event. Car ownership was personal, and keeping it clean and running right was a point of pride.
Making Workbenches
Many garages had a handmade workbench tucked against a wall. Dads would bolt it together with 2x4s, slap on a plywood top, and call it done. These benches saw everything from school projects to plumbing repairs laid out on them over the years.
Storing “Extras” in Freezers
A surprising number of ‘90s garages had a chest freezer humming in the corner. Stocked with bulk meat, frozen veggies, or popsicles for the kids, it was a practical project to set up and keep going. Freezers weren’t glamorous, but they were a sign of preparedness.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
