Garage insulation/sheetrocking - any last thoughts/tips?

[DeraldR]

I might be a NEWBIE, but I am definately NOT a TRADING POST TROLL.

We extended an attached 24 x 24 by 20 feet into a 44 x 24 about 10 years ago.

I used 1/2 inch ply instead of OSB for the "working walls" of the garage, kept drywall on the common walls and behind the shelving on one wall. Same reasons as some have already mentioned.

Insulating the ceiling will really help. I have a Modine Hot Dawg overhead heater, and very tight sealing garage doors, and I lose very little heat overnight.

Install as many outlets as you can. I did outlets every 48 inches, 48 inches above the floor. Also, use as many circuits as possible to avoid overloading any one circuit. Use GFI breakers on all garage circuits. Plan for a 220 compressor, even if you dont have the need now.

A suggestion on the compressor circuit. I wired it through a relay from the overhead light circuit. When I turn off the lights, it is impossible for the compressor to cycle in the middle of the night. Wife is happy. Also used 3/4 in copper. Agreed that PVC is dangerous.

install as many lights as you can . In my 44 x24, I have 54 4 foot T8 bulbs. LEDs are more popular now, but some people come by, and they have commented that my garage can be seen from space. You can never have too much light. Install some lights in the attic so that you can see what is up there when you go exploring.

Windows are great for ventilation and natural light. But for security sake, they can be a problem with too many people seeing what is in your garage, and they can be an easy entry point for bad guys.

If you want, go to WWW.GarageJournal.com and visit some other garagemahal ideas.

I really love spending other peoples money.


Derald.