It's getting to that time of year when households will be getting the itch to have a spring clean (both inside and outside the home).

As the warmer weather is slowly making an appearance, you will probably want to start giving your garden a refresh to make way for summer, including tackling your garage or shed.

If your outdoor storage situation has gotten out of hand during autumn and winter while it's not been used much, you won't be alone.

For those who are thinking about giving their garages and sheds a good old clear out but don't know where to start, an expert has offered some useful tips and advice.

Lidget Compton, specialists in garage buildings have revealed their top tips for organising your garage (or shed) in time for summer, which won't take much time at all.

If your garage has been cluttered for years, it might be time to empty the whole thing and start again. While this may seem a daunting task, it will help you get organised in the long run. Milder and drier weather makes this process much easier, as you can take things out into the garden to organise.

Richard Berry, outdoor building specialist at Lidget Compton shares: "This stage provides the perfect opportunity to clean the garage fully, reaching spaces that have been hidden for many years. You'll also get a chance to check the structural integrity and make sure the garage is still a sound storage place and doesn't require any maintenance."

When was the last time you gave your garage or shed a clear out? (Image: Getty Images) Make a plan

Richard explains: "Make a clear plan of the contents of your garage and then you can decipher what is to keep, donate, recycle, or throw away. This sort of organisation will save you a lot of time and energy during your clear out."

Whether the contents of your garage are made up of sports equipment, seasonal items, or work tools, you should also plan to designate specific areas of the garage to the different categories. This means you'll know exactly where to find everything.

Consider storing as much as you can off the ground, to maximise on floor space. Utilise the walls/sides of your shed with hooks or peg boards to hang coats, tools, and other unusual shaped items. Use shelving for any boxes, containers or books, and secure bike racks to the garage walls.

Richard recommends: "If you have a concrete garage, you may need to consider freestanding metal shelving units as opposed to traditional wooden shelves. These have the added benefit of being easily moveable."

To save space and keep the garage looking neat, Richard says: "Consider investing in compact garden appliances such as a folding lawn mower, folding deck chairs/tables, and a hose pipe on a retractable wheel."

These compact appliances are modern versions which can save plenty of space.

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While you're in the midst of clearing your garage it can present the perfect opportunity to see if you need to complete any maintenance checks or refresh any paintwork or flooring.

Richard adds: "During summer months, it's advisable to check the seals around your garage, especially around doors and windows, to ensure they're intact and will keep wet weather at bay when the winter months arrive."