As summer slowly creeps in, the Texas sun could leave your garage feeling like a sauna. Whether you use your garage for storage, a workshop, or just as a way to enter and exit your home, keeping it cool is important for staying comfortable, keeping your property safe, and reducing your energy costs.
From improving ventilation to checking your garage door insulation, here’s how you can maintain a cool garage all season long, even during an Austin heatwave.
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“Insulated garage doors have layers of insulation to regulate temperature and reduce heat temperature.”
How to Keep a Cool Garage
A hot garage is not only uncomfortable – it can put your property at risk. Whether you park your car in the garage or you use the space to store seasonal items, tools, and sports equipment, excess heat and high humidity can damage your property. It’s also miserable to work on home projects in a sweltering garage, leaving you with ample space you don’t want to use.
Here are some ways you can keep your garage cool:
Get Air Circulating
Ventilating your garage can make a big difference in how hot it gets. Many homeowners rely on garage fans, such as oscillating fans, box fans, or pedestal fans to keep air moving, but passive vents near the ceiling can help pull hot air out and bring cooler air in. Another option is an active ventilation system that’s mechanically powered to efficiently move air.
Invest in a Dehumidifier
If your garage feels sticky or musty, a dehumidifier can help pull moisture out of the air to cool the space and prevent mold or rust. You could also install a mini-split AC system to help with high heat and humidity, or if you have a window, use a window unit to keep the temperature a little lower.
Open the Door When It’s Cool
Even on the hottest days, it’s usually a bit cooler in the morning and evening. This is a great time to open your garage door and allow some of the heat to escape. If you have a fan, turn it on while the door’s open to push some of the stagnant air outside.
Focus on Garage Insulation
Many garages have poor insulation, if any. Proper insulation reduces the heat transfer from the exterior to the interior. Ideally, your garage should have insulation in the walls, ceiling, and garage doors, as well as weather stripping for the windows and door frames.
Spring Inspection: What to Check on Your Garage Door
Before the summer heat really hits, take some time to inspect your garage door for wear and tear. Even small issues can lead to major problems when it comes to heat gain. Here are some things to look out for:
- Check the weather stripping: Old or cracked garage door weather stripping allows hot air to creep in. If you notice light coming through when the door is closed, it’s time to replace your weather strips.
- Inspect the panels: Warped or damaged panels can compromise your garage’s insulation. If your panels look beat up or misaligned, consider calling a garage door contractor in Austin for a repair or replacement.
- Test the door balance: An unbalanced garage door can’t seal properly, so all that hot air can come in. Disconnect your garage door opener and lift the door halfway. If it doesn’t stay put, you may need a garage door service.
Insulated Garage Doors and More
One of the best ways to keep your garage comfortable is to upgrade your door and insulation:
- Install insulated garage doors: Insulated garage doors have layers of insulation to regulate temperature and reduce heat loss. Insulated garage door installation also helps to reduce noise pollution, increase energy efficiency, and reduce the stress on your heating and cooling system.
- Use a garage door insulation kit: If you have some time before you need a garage door replacement, a garage door insulation kit can be a cost-effective DIY solution that can help with temperature control.
- Upgrade garage weather stripping: As mentioned, worn garage weather stripping allows heat in, as well as dust, moisture, and pests. Replacing your old weather stripping with new garage door weather stripping forms a tight seal.
- Seal wall and ceiling gaps: While your garage door is the primary focus for a well-insulated garage, don’t neglect any cracks in the walls or ceiling. Use foam sealant or caulk to prevent warm air from coming in.
Keep Your Garage Cool with Help from Austin’s Greater Garage Doors
You can keep your garage cool with the right garage door and some simple maintenance. Whether you need insulation upgrades, repairs, or a complete garage door replacement in Austin, the contractors at Austin’s Greater Garage Doors can help. Contact us today for garage door repairs, replacements, installation, and advice!
