How to Insulate a Garage and Why It Matters

When most people think about insulating their home, they have the attic, exterior walls and finished basements in mind. But there’s another part of the house you shouldn’t overlook when it comes to insulation: the garage.

Properly insulating your Indiana home reduces your energy bills and improves overall indoor comfort. Here’s why you should insulate your garage, the type of insulation you should use and why you should have it installed by professional installers.

Why You Should Insulate Your Home’s Garage

We’re often asked, “Do I really need to insulate my garage?” Our answer is nearly always “yes,” and here’s why.

• Greater temperature control: Insulation controls heat flow in and out of your home, keeping the heat in during the colder months and keeping it out during the summer. Fluctuating temperatures in an attached, uninsulated garage could affect your indoor comfort, doubly so when you have a living space overhead.
• Increased energy savings: A more consistent indoor temperature equals greater savings on your utilities.
• Improved soundproofing: Have a teenager who practices drums in the garage? Is the space used as a workout room or woodwork shop? Many types of insulation also provide soundproofing.

The Best Type of Insulation for a Garage

To keep heat from escaping from adjoining areas of your home, you generally need a minimum R-value of R-13 or R-15 in 2-inch by 4-inch studs for your garage’s insulation. Beyond that, there are four types of insulation you can install.

1. Fiberglass insulation is the most commonly used garage insulation and is a great choice for most applications. If you’re not covering the walls and ceilings with plywood or drywall, consider using paper-faced or encapsulated options for a more finished look.
2. Cellulose insulation is growing in popularity, as eco-conscious homeowners like it’s made primarily from recycled newspapers. Typically blown into ceiling and wall cavities, it’s best suited for finished garage walls and ceilings.
3. Spray foam insulation is an excellent choice for its air sealing and R-value. Most garages don’t need this more high-end material, but it’s worth considering if you’re converting the garage to living space.
4. Garage door insulation is available in several options, including rigid foam. Air sealing along the sides, top and bottom of the door is crucial to a successful garage insulation project.

Garage Insulation Installation Services

The key areas of the garage to insulate are the exterior walls, the ceiling and the garage door. While some homeowners like to tackle an insulation job themselves, we recommend hiring experienced, professional installers to complete this essential upgrade.

Professional insulation installers are skilled at assessing the unique insulation needs of your garage. They can also help you choose the best type(s) of insulation for your garage. For instance, the garage door has different installation requirements than ceilings or walls, and it’s essential that all gaps be sealed for maximum insulation performance.

Ready to get started on your garage insulation project? Get in touch with the team at Momper Insulation today by contacting us online or calling us at 260-432-7543.