3 Ways to Keep Your Garage Cool in Hot Weather

Garages are one of the most versatile spaces in a home. They can be used for parking vehicles, storing tools and sports equipment, as a workspace or even as a recreational area. However, during hot weather, the temperature inside a garage can become unbearable.

High temperatures are not only uncomfortable if you want to work on projects in the garage, but they can damage equipment and even cause health issues. If you want to make better use of your garage in the summer, here are three effective ways to keep your garage cool when temperatures soar.

Insulate Your Garage

It may seem counterproductive, but an insulated garage door is one of the most effective ways to keep it cool during hot weather. Insulation acts as a barrier between the outside heat and the inside of your garage. It helps to keep the heat out during the summer months and keep the cold air out during the winter months. Insulation can also help to reduce noise levels and prevent moisture build-up which protects your vehicle and equipment from moisture damage.

There are several types of insulation to choose from, including fibreglass insulation, blown-in insulation and foam insulation. Fibreglass insulation comes in rolls or blankets that can be cut to size, while blown-in insulation is made of loose-fill fibreglass or cellulose and is blown into the wall cavities using a machine. Lastly, foam insulation is a spray that can be applied to walls, ceilings and floors.

When insulating your garage, it is important to pay attention to the R-value of the insulation. The R-value is a measure of the insulation’s ability to resist heat flow – the higher the R-value, the more effective the insulation will be at keeping your garage cool.

Install A Ceiling Fan

A ceiling fan can help to keep your garage cool during hot weather by improving air circulation, removing hot air and moisture from your garage and replacing it with cooler, drier air, which can help to reduce the temperature in your garage and prevent moisture build-up.

However, you need your garage to have a ceiling height of at least 8 feet to install a fan – if it’s lower, it may interfere with your garage door opener. If you’re unsure if your garage door style will work with a ceiling fan, get in touch with us and we can advise you.

Ceiling fans work more efficiently when the blades are fitted with around 10-12 inches of space under the ceiling, and the larger the fan, the better it will cool your space. They are particularly worthwhile when you have a steel garage door, as this material can get incredibly hot during the summer – a fan will keep the interior comfortable so you can spend time in the garage without discomfort.

Keep The Door Open

Often the simplest and quickest way to cool your garage down is to ventilate it by opening the door, allowing the hot air to escape and cool air in. If your garage door is north-facing, opening the door lets more cool air in because the northern side of your property won’t receive as much sunlight. But even if it doesn’t, opening the door will get the air moving.

If your garage has windows, it can help to open these too, creating a cross-breeze between the windows and doors. If you still want to maintain some privacy while you’re working in the garage, you can keep the door lifted off the ground without opening it fully just to let some air through.

Keeping your garage cool during hot weather is important for your and your family’s comfort, and the longevity of your vehicle, tools and belongings. Insulating your garage, installing a garage ventilation system and paying attention to the material of the door itself are three effective ways to keep your garage cool during hot weather.

We’ve worked with countless customers across the South East to help them find their perfect garage door and accessories. If you’d like further advice on how to maintain your garage door in the summer and the best ways to keep the interior of your garage cool, why not get in touch with us?