Though it’s only cold for a few months here in Houston, when it does get cold, it gets really cold. In most homes, the garage is not on the central heating unit. Regardless of what you are using your garage for, whether it’s just for your vehicles, workshop, or any number of other reasons, the last thing you want is to step into a cold garage, so we are going to go over some heating tips for your garage for the coming winter.

Garage Heating Tips 

Considerations of Using a Heater

Types of Heaters

Depending on what you store in your garage, you may not want your traditional combustion heater that uses propane or kerosene. The most common heating unit is electric heaters for smaller garages. Electric space heaters are generally safer and more suitable for enclosed spaces like garages. They produce no harmful emissions and can be easily portable.

For a larger garage, you could use a forced-air garage heater instead of an electric. A forced-air garage heater moves air past a heating element, warming the surrounding air; then the hot air rises away from the heater. These garage heaters are best for enclosed spaces and are similar to a forced air heating system in a home. They are easy to use and install, with heating levels set by an adjustable thermostat, and louvers to adjust the direction of heat. 

You could also consider an infrared garage heater. Infrared heaters deliver radiated heat, rather than using a conventional blower fan. An infrared heater may be the best heater for a garage if you use it for a workshop or crafting area. Infrared heaters don’t raise dust or keep dust airborne. 

Size Matters

Choose a heater that is appropriately sized for your garage. Measure the square footage of your space and look for heaters designed to cover that area. An undersized heater may struggle to provide adequate warmth, while an oversized heater could waste energy.

Moisture Control

In Houston’s relatively humid climate, even during cooler months, running a heater could increase the condensation level in your garage. Using a dehumidifier alongside your heater can prevent moisture buildup that could lead to mold or rust on tools and equipment.

Insulate the Garage Door

Your garage door can take up a large space on the outside of your home and takes the brunt of the cold weather. Because of this, having insulated garage doors or insulating your current garage door will help keep the warm air in and the cold air out. A garage door insulation kit is an easy and effective way to block this heat from traveling through the door. You can find a wide variety of garage door insulation kits online.

Repair Or Replace the Weatherstripping.

The function of weatherstrips is to create a seal for the garage and garage door opening. If your garage door has old, dirty, and worn weatherstripping, this does not provide adequate sealing to hold the warmth inside. A simple replacement of the weatherstripping will ensure more heat is contained in your garage. Remember, however, that you always need to install enough new weatherstripping to ensure that the garage door closes properly.

Insulate Your Garage Walls

Insulating your garage door is only going to help so far if the garage walls are not insulated as well. If your studs are still exposed, add fiberglass batt insulation in each stud space. Cover the walls in either drywall or plywood.

Thermal Curtains

Installing thermal curtains over windows in the garage can further insulate the space and reduce heat loss. Thermal curtains are made from thick, heavy materials such as cotton, polyester, or a blend, often with a foam layer. This composition helps to block out cold air and retain heat inside the garage. Some are designed with multiple layers, including a reflective film that further enhances their insulating properties.

Fix Garage Door Issues

If your garage door has come off track, or the panels have been dented, you will want to repair your garage door as soon as possible. Otherwise, you are letting cold air into your garage unnecessarily. If your garage door is old or poorly insulated, consider upgrading to a newer, insulated model. This can significantly improve heat retention.

If you are in the Houston area, Spectrum Overhead Door LLC can repair your garage door, oftentimes on the same day! Call to schedule your appointment and don’t let cold air blow into your garage.