Many people want to convert their garages into workshops or an extra living space. However, unlike houses, garages are rarely insulated. Follow these steps to prepare your garage for year-round use in any climate.
Instructions
Insulate Exposed Walls
1. Place insulation in between 2" x 4" wall studs. The insulation should be attached to the 2" x 4" studs with the insulation facing away and the paper side visible.
2. Staple paper edges to the 2" x 4" studs every 12 inches.
3. Cut insulation to fit, using a sharp and a straightedge. Make sure there are no gaps in the insulation.
4. Repeat for each gap.
5. Pull vapor seal plastic film tight and staple at least every 12 inches. Start at the top of one corner of the garage.
6. Overlap the sheets by one complete cavity, working around the entire room.
7. Trim out the plastic from over windows, doors and electrical boxes using utility knife.
8. Staple around the windows, doors and electrical boxes to ensure a tight vapor seal.
Insulate Walls That Have Been Drywalled
9. Drill a small hole in the drywall between the studs at the top of the wall.
10. Blow insulation into gap, using slow-curing foam or fiberglass insulation. There are many makes and models of insulation blowers. Follow the manufacturer's directions at all times.
11. Repeat for each gap, moving around the room.
Seal Windows and Doors
12. Insert caulk tube into caulk gun.
13. Snip off tip of caulk tube with a utility knife.
14. Gently squeeze caulk gun handle as you move along the seam of each area. Apply caulk around all window and door frames.
Tags: utility knife, caulk tube, doors electrical, , electrical boxes, every inches