Should I insulate my garage?

Erich | Posted in Construction Techniques on August 6, 2005 06:52am

I live in South Carolina and plan to sheet rock my garage. The garage is attached to the house. I’m not sure if I should insulate first or just sheet rock. I’ve heard folks argue both ways. I’d appreciate some advice.

Replies

wrudiger | Aug 06, 2005 07:02am | #1
What do you use your garage for? I've heard some folks use them to park their vehicles, but for the life of me I can't understand what would cause anyone outside of the snow belt to waste such valuable space :-) So... shop (auto, wood, etc.) definately insulate. Cars or general junk - ferget about it - unless your heater is out there - then you might could make an arguement to insulate.

OldHouseFan | Aug 06, 2005 05:00pm | #3
"I've heard some folks use them to park their vehicles, but for the life of me I can't understand what would cause anyone outside of the snow belt to waste such valuable space :-) "

I might have agreed until I lived where weeks may go by over 100 degrees each day and you can't touch the steering wheel if you forgot to put your cardboard in the window. Also, for transplants from the North - do not, repeat, do NOT leave a case of pop in your car under those conditions. Trust me.

Andy2 | Aug 06, 2005 05:21pm | #4
When I lived in Denver, I insulated my garage and I was I glad I did. It was very comfortable in the dead of winter with just a small space heater whenever I tinkered with cars.

FastEddie1 | Aug 06, 2005 07:07am | #2
Insulation is cheap before the sheetrock goes up. Afterwards, it's very expensive. The ceiling can be blown later, so you can skip that part if you like.

I'm sorry, I thought you wanted it done the right way.

bladeburner | Aug 06, 2005 05:30pm | #5
Do it...Cooler in summer, warmer in winter

Grizzly | Aug 07, 2005 04:29pm | #6
My philosophy is to always think ahead. A little expense now...ie insulation and you won't have regrets later. In addition I would throw in some extra electrical at bench height that way if you want to dabble with some woodworking tools you won't be running cords all over the place. If you ever want to sell this will also be a feature that could put you ahead of the competition and could add value to your investment.

Byron

Erich | Aug 07, 2005 07:18pm | #7
Thank you to all. Your answers have really helped me to know what to do. I really appreciate each of you taking the time to answer. - - Erich