If your projects continue into the winter, adding insulation to your garage will take a space designed primarily for cars and create a welcome respite where you can work more comfortably. Being able to filter out street noise as well as the cold air will make the environment much more pleasant and reduce the need for dangerous space heaters. However, there are also considerations for garages that do not necessarily apply to the rest of your home, which is why you need to consider the type of insulation in Little Rock, AR more carefully. Here are the best types for the garage:
- Batt insulation: Made of cotton and fiberglass, batt insulation is a cost-effective option. It is easy to install, as it just needs to lie between the studs. However, there can be steps beyond that to complete installation. You will need to add a vapor barrier and drywall. If your garage has always been bare bones with no drywall, a contractor will need to perform a remodel to accommodate it.
- Foam board: If you do not wish to install drywall, foam board is a good choice. As it is basically a rigid board, it does not require any other type of support—you just secure it against the garage walls. However, your local building codes may prohibit it, so check there first. Also, you will want a variety that is flame tested and may also have to add a radiant barrier. These precautions are necessary as this type of insulation is sometimes a fire risk.
- Blown-in insulation: Garages with drywall but no insulation can benefit from the blown-in option. This is easy to install, as all it involves is punching a hole in the wall and blowing in a cellulose insulating material. Afterwards, the hole is patched and you now have an insulated garage. This form of insulation is often desirable due to the fact garages are often cluttered spaces with cars, large power tools and even washers and dryers. Even though you will pay more for blown-in insulation than for fiberglass, you will likely enjoy the lack of preparation required. Yet you will still get the results you desire with an insulated garage.
When you insulate your garage, remember that it contains the most dangerous chemicals in your home. You or your contractor will need to take the extra effort to seal the wall cavities so fumes do not penetrate the living areas. Insulation also needs to be thick enough so your power tools do not disturb the rest of your household. The best way to assure that you choose the right insulation for your garage—and experience successful installation—is to hire an experienced contractor. Otherwise, you may overlook an important element that makes garage insulation not only effective, but also safe.
Contact Harris Insulation whether you need insulation in Little Rock, AR for an attic, garage or any other room in your home. We can review your options and offer an accurate estimate.