What Insulation to Use in a Garage Conversion

A great way to add extra space to your home is to convert your garage. The space can be used as an additional room for entertaining, serve as another bedroom when unexpected guests drop by or when your teenager decides he/she needs privacy. Whatever the use, insulating the new room is key. By providing the correct type of insulation, you are guaranteed comfort during all seasons.

So you have made up your mind. You are going to create another room in your home. But, you will not be building it; you will be modifying your existing garage to suit your individual needs. Before you begin to renovate your garage, consider a few important factors:

• Research the building codes in your local area. You will need specifics regarding the placement of vapor barriers. You will also need to know which type of insulation is required for the walls, the floor and ceiling.


• Educate yourself with the different types of insulation available and their ability to resist heat loss; this is called the R-value. The higher the R-value, the better protection against drafts and loss of heat.


• Select batt insulation which consists of pre-cut panels; they are available in many different lengths, widths and R-values. This type of insulation is used mostly in attics or finished basements. The popularity of this material lies in the simplicity to install and the ease of attachment. Use batt insulation on your exterior walls and ceiling.


• Choose a polyethylene panel covered with a foil reflector barrier or polystyrene panels to insulate the garage door. Both of these types of insulation are available in ready made kits that can be purchased at your local hardware store.