Author: Dencroft Garage Experts | Last Updated: April 2023
There is truly is nothing worse than entering your garage when it’s cold outside. Dashing in from the rain, ice or snow expecting warmth but hitting a wall of cold instead!
However, as with all things Dencroft, it doesn’t need to be this way.
If you, like many of us, want to use your garage for more than just storage (or dumping ground) then insulating it and protecting your items and yourself from the cold can be achieved and that too, with relative ease.
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Why you should consider heating your garage
Insulating a garage and ensuring the space is warm can take time and depending on what you need to do, is a considered investment.
If your intention is to use your garage as an extension to your property, whether it be for work or personal reasons then we highly recommend you review the heat, the space and seek out our experts to determine the most suitable insulation for the space.
It’s also worth considering how often you will use the space. A home office that will be used for 5 days per week vs a space to house your valuable items have very different needs thus, require varying degrees of heat.
Will heating my garage affect my car?
If you are planning on heating your garage to store your car then we would urge you to consider the reasons why you need a heated garage.
Generally, cars are more sensitive to extreme cold conditions rather than heat; however, heat can still cause damage if kept in for prolonged periods.
Whilst modern-day cars have come a long way, long exposure to heat can cause rust to the body paint and in some instances, external heating can shorten the lifespan of your car.
If you have come to the conclusion that heating your garage for a warmer winter space is efficient and worthwhile, follow our 4 steps to heat your garage and make it warmer this winter.
Steps to heating your garage
Step 1 – Seal walls and doors
The easiest of steps but one that is often overlooked. Whilst doors generally are well sealed, over time, the seal itself can break down, thus, allowing for draughts to come in. Sealing your walls and doors usually entails a simple process of adding or updating the weather strip found around the edges.
Step 2 – Upgrade to a new garage door
Believe it or not, most garage doors that we come across in our line of work are the biggest culprits for letting in the cold and omitting heat. If your garage door is old, worn and tired, it may be time to upgrade to a new quality garage door.
We offer a range of garage doors that suit most house types and styles, colours and automation. With regards to upgrading garage doors, it is worth considering what you are using your garage for, your plans and the importance the space holds for you.
If you intend to convert the space into a home office, gym or other use then we highly recommend upgrading your garage door, not just for warmth but for the added reassurance of securing your items inside.
Step 3 – Insulating your walls, floor and roof
If your garage is to become an extension of your home, whether it be a home office, workshop or even a playroom for the kids then we highly recommend you consider insulating your garage walls, floor and/or roof.
If you have already followed steps 1 and 2, then step 3 will give you the added bonus of a very secure and incredibly weatherproof garage. There are multiple methods available to insulate your garage however we always recommend starting with the walls.
For more information on how to insulate your garage, see our garage insulation guide.
Step 4 – Installing a heat source to your garage
If, after following steps 1 to 3 your garage is not warm enough for you to spend hours in then a portable heater will do the trick! However, adding heaters to your garage is only worth the value if you have ensured your garage is fully insulated.
Alternative heating sources for your garage
Heating a garage through solar powered energy is a brilliant way to reduce ongoing costs and be more environmentally friendly. There are multiple styles and panels available on the market but before investing in solar panels think about how much warmth you need on a daily basis.
As with all solar panels, you need sun! Additional portable heaters may be needed if you’re looking to use solar panels. In addition, we would only recommend using this method if you have fully insulated your garage first.
To summarise, heating your garage is worth it if you need the space on a daily basis. If you and your family require the space then yes, it is 100% worth heating your garage!
For more information on garage doors and insulation, please contact us directly for an informal chat.