Cleaning out the garage makes it easier to store your vehicle, but homeowners have also put the space to a number of practical uses. Garage conversions can turn this area into a workshop, home gym, or even a tidy accommodation for guests.

One option is to transform the garage into your very own pub. By adding a bar and some seating, you'll create an enjoyable retreat for you and your friends just steps from your front door.

The first thing you need to do when considering this work is to clear out any junk that has accumulated in the garage. Jacob Hurwith, writing for the home improvement resource ImproveNet, says this will let you accomplish the long overdue task of sorting out your belongings to see which items you can throw away, donate, or sell. For things you want to keep, look for other storage areas such as the attic or basement.

Before you get to choosing furniture and contemplating what kinds of beer you want on tap, you'll need to make the garage more comfortable. Michael Franco, writing for the home improvement professional Bob Vila, says space heaters and forced hot air units will help keep the space temperate during the winter. Installing a window air conditioner or setting up an evaporative cooling unit will keep the garage from overheating in the summer.

Put in insulation to help maintain a constant temperature. Hurwith says you should ideally be able to insulate the entire garage, including the door.

Decide whether to keep the current floor or put down new material. Brian Heuberger, writing for Angie's List, says carpets are versatile and comfortable, but also more vulnerable to stains. Franco says interlocking rubber floor tiles can be a good choice since they provide insulation, are comfortable on the feet, and are easy to clean.

The garage should have an electrical connection, since this will be essential for setting up adequate lighting, installing a television, and keeping a refrigerator handy. You may need to consult with an electrician if you need to extend power to the space or expand its accessibility.

The pub can serve as either a wet bar or a dry bar. Adriana Velez, writing for Realtor.com, says a wet bar has a sink while a dry bar doesn't. A wet bar might be preferable, since it allows you easy access to water for washing glassware and cleaning up the counter.

However, this isn't strictly necessary if a sink isn't located too far from the garage. A dry bar allows you to artistically display your glasses and liquor bottles. It also gives you storage options for other items as well.

Many garages have water lines accessible nearby. Franco says a plumber can easily add plumbing off this line to connect a bar sink. Heuberger says this setup can be more convenient, although it will also increase the price of the project.

A refrigerator is a useful addition to a home pub. Even a mini fridge can be sufficient for holding a modest quantity of wine or beer, though a full-sized fridge may be necessary if you have larger social gatherings.

The fridge is also essential if you plan to set up a tap system for beer. Family Handyman recommends using small kegs, suggesting that five-gallon ones are sufficient for most home bars. You'll want to insulate the lines and flush the system with a cleaning solution every six weeks or so.

The bar should ideally be designed to keep visitors comfortable and avoid spills. The standard height for a bar is 42 inches, and most bar stools should be about 30 inches tall. You may want to add a lower bar counter to prepare drinks or a drink rail to pour them, though these additions will make the bar more complex and can be left out to simplify the project. The bar top should have molding and a lip to prevent spills.

There are plenty of choices when it comes to the countertop for a bar. Heuberger says wooden bars will offer a handsome appearance, but stone ones will be more durable. You'll also have a variety of choices when it comes to the bar's shape; it might be straight, L-shaped, curved, or any other type you choose.

You might limit the pub to the bar, or you might add other items as well. Hurwith says you can consider a couch or other comfortable seating, and highlight the space with a coat of paint and a selection of décor or memorabilia.

Don't skimp on security after establishing a garage pub. Make sure the doors are securely locked, and consider extending your security system so your garage is covered by alarms and cameras.