If frustration sets in when it’s time to find a tool, a wall storage unit might be what you need. The classic pegboard, a steel or magnetic wall unit, or the French cleat system are just a few smart wall storage systems that take the stress out of searching for tools.
Smart tool wall storage systems overview
- Why use smart storage for tools
- Pegboard wall storage
- Steel and magnetic wall storage
- French cleat wall storage
- Power tool wall storage
Why install a smart wall storage system
If you have a lot of tools, finding what you need when you need it can be challenging. A wall-mounted smart storage system is one way to organize your tools.
The benefit: It saves floor space in your work area by using wall space and makes tools easily visible at eye level for easy searching. Wall space organizers also allow a custom fit of your tools; you can organize the tools however makes the most sense to you.
These systems are generally inexpensive but worth the cost and effort to install. It’s about hours of saved time that might otherwise be spent searching for the right tools in the wrong places.
4 wall solutions to store your tools
1. Pegboard wall storage
The most common wall storage type is the pegboard. You can mount it directly on the wall or on a frame and then the wall, insert J-hooks wherever you want to hang your tools, and that’s it.
What you need
- Pegboard
- Hooks
- Furring strips (if using)
- Self-drilling wood screws
- Washers or spacers
- Measuring tape
- Drill
- Screws
- Level
- Circular saw
- Stud finder
System highlights
- Easy to install and cheap; all materials are readily available
- Not the sturdiest material, but it can typically handle about 100 lbs.
- More ideal for lighter tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, light mallets, tape measures, lightweight levels, pliers, awls, etc.)
- Simplest way to organize light tools on a wall
2. Steel and magnetic wall storage
Magnetic storage systems can be mounted on any metal surface large enough to accommodate them. This straightforward wall storage system allows you to place the bar magnets anywhere you want—no hooks or holes needed, but you can purchase those if you want them.
A magnetic pegboard or steel wall mount, along with magnetic hooks and accessories if required, is all you need for a magnetic storage board. Some magnetic steel bars claim they only require the adhesive they come with. Depending on the use, you might want to affix them more securely.
Metal magnetic pegboards add strength to a pegboard system, and steel wall mount systems are popular and easy to use and install. Steel bar storage systems are also simple to install and affordable.
What you need
- Magnetic pegboard or steel wall mount
- Magnetic hooks
- Accessories (if required)
- Drill
- Screws
- Level
- Stud finder
System highlights
- Strong load capacity
- Offer a more secure hold on tools
- More expensive than other wall-mounted tool storage systems
- Without an auto-release magnetic, some can be tough to adjust
- Easy to install and modify
3. French cleat wall storage
A French cleat wall storage system can be a tricky DIY project unless you are a fairly competent carpenter. Ready-made kits are widely available online if you’re not up for the challenge.
The French cleat system is one of the oldest and most reliable forms of tool storage. It also has a rather elegant appearance, befitting the age of this system.
This system uses a series of boards with 45-degree beveled edges that face upward, allowing the cleat to attach securely via a downward-facing bevel. Because the opposing beveled edges lock tightly together, it can support significant weight.
This system could be the best option for storing tools you use most frequently, depending on your use.
What you need
- Sanded plywood
- Self-drilling wood screws
- Wood glue
- Brad nails
- Table saw
- Circular saw
- Tape measure
- Level
- Stud finder
- Drill
- Sanding block
System highlights
- Costlier to install than other wall storage systems
- More labor-intensive to install and remove
- Most attractive
- Ideal for lighter tools but can hold significant weight
- Customizable
- Easy to rearrange
4. WORKPRO power tool wall storage
The WORKPRO Power Tool Organizer may be the right fit for some handymen. The system features two shelves with ample storage space for screwdrivers, bits, or other small tool kits and five hanging slots for various power tools.
It’s equipped with a small cut in the side to insert a power cord for the optimal charging station without the mess. It’s easy to mount and keeps tools organized in one location.
System highlights
- Large storage space
- 82°angle divider protects tools from falling
- Made from 100% high-quality wood
- Moisture-proof and anti-erosion
- Inexpensive