Building a new garage comes with a great deal of decision making. The first question to ask yourself is: “How do you intend to use the garage?” This will help to determine whether or not to insulate the structure upon completion.

For some, that is an easy answer, to park or to use as a station for charging electric vehicles. In that case, insulating the structure may not be necessary.

For others, the structure they are envisioning is multipurposed, meaning it may not even serve as a location in which to store vehicles! If the space is going to be utilized on a more regular basis for a workshop, yoga studio, or golf simulator, insulating the structure might be an idea to consider.

5 Reasons To Insulate The Garage

1. Insulation helps control the temperature of the garage. For those homeowners who intend to utilize the structure for more than just vehicle storage, the temperature of the garage is very important. Working in the garage in the winter can get chilly in the Midwest, therefore, additional insulation can help trap the heat, creating a more habitable space in which to work. Also consider the addition of an insulated overhead door during your design phase. Not every overhead/garage door is the same, and just like a traditional door, an insulated one helps to further prevent heat from leaving the structure.
2. Insulation also helps with sound control. Creating a space for kids to hang out, practice a sport such as hockey (using synthetic ice), or for a “man cave,” sound control can make a large difference in the space between the garage and the home.
3. Insultation provides additional useable space year-round. Midwest seasons can be tough to predict, however with an insulated garage, the space can be used as an extension of the house. If this is the intention, consider also adding additional lighting and a source of heat after the garage is completed.
4. Insulation prevents unnecessary moisture from entering the structure. Not only do homeowners store their lawnmower and bicycles, but garages often become a space used to store items that the home can no longer contain, such as seasonal clothing, holiday decorations, memorabilia, etc. Any additional steps to avoid potential water trouble are always encouraged. The seasonal temperature changes and humidity outside of the garage can play a large role in the treatment of those items stored within, it can also determine what should or should not be stored in this space.
5. Insulation prevents insects. While installing the drywall, all holes, cracks, or open spaces found should be properly sealed prior to the drywall going up. These barriers between the interior and exterior of the structure will assist in preventing unwanted critters from finding ways to enter the structure.

It is important to note that some municipalities require what is known as a firewall. Dictated by the municipality the garage is being built, the plans may require all walls within 3-feet of the neighboring property to be covered with a firewall. Prior to the installation, an inspection is often required if electricity is included in the project. This may leave one wall uncovered and not insulated when the project is considered complete.

Once the structure is complete and has passed the final framing and electrical inspections, drywall can be installed to finish the structure.

For a FREE consultation and estimate, contact Heartland Garage Builders at HeartlandGarageBuilders.com or 224-326-2698.