Installing Insulation in Garage

Types of Insulation

• Insulation comes in four basic types: batts, rigid, reflective and loose-fill. There are also different forms of insulation, such as fiberglass, rock wool and polyurethane foam. The most common type used in garages is the fiberglass batts that typically come in rolls. Loose-fill insulation is blown or sprayed in and is used more to retrofit insulation behind a finished wall or as supplemental insulation in an attic.

R-Value

• The measurement of the resistance of insulation to heat flow is known as the R-value; the higher the R-value, the better the resistance. In a garage, the R-value pertains to the movement of heat both in and out of the garage. When selecting insulation for your garage, check the labeling; generally, a table is supplied with suggested R-values for different regions and climates. A rating of R-11 or R-19 is fairly standard for garage walls, but it does depend on the type of framework used in construction.

Installing the Insulation

• Fiberglass insulation is affixed to a paper backing that has an edging to allow for installation. Measure and cut the rolls in workable 12 foot lengths. Place the insulation, with the paper side facing toward the open garage area, between the joists and studs. Using one-half inch staples, staple through the unfolded flaps at the edges of the paper into the joists or studs. Continue in this manner until the entire garage is done. Begin with the walls and work to the ceiling. Depending on the type of door that you have, you may want to check into door insulation kits.

Safety

• Working with insulation requires safety measures. Fiberglass insulation contains minute pieces of crushed glass that can cut you and get under your skin. Always wear gloves when handling insulation. Breathing in these particles is also a health hazard, so wear a dust mask at all times. Wear protective eye goggles as fiberglass particles are easily transferred from gloves to eyes.