Insulating and Air-Sealing a Detached Garage
Hi all,
I am hoping to insulate my detached (17x19ft) garage (located in Mid Tennessee) and install a mini split unit to keep it climate controlled to use as a workshop/ studio space. I just moved into the house and as I was looking around the garage I noticed a few spots where you can see daylight through the siding as well as portion where you can see the outside ground at the base of the wall and there are actually a few weeds growing up into the garage at this spot.
The garage is pretty bare bones at the moment, just studs with outside plank siding with some other kind of siding onto fo that, the inspector seemed to think it could be asbestos but wont know without testing, so if I would prefer to not mess with it unless I have to.
I am wondering the best way to seal all the spots before I insulate it. I have considered spray foam since from what I can tell it would act as a seal as well as insulation but it is pricy. I would like it to be as well sealed and insulated as possible without spending tons of money.
Thanks in advance for any input!
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Replies
Where are you located?
Tennessee
Most of Tennessee is Climate Zone 4A (with the far western quarter mostly CZ3A). It looks like you have board sheathing. The weeds suggest the grade (at least in some areas) is really close to the bottom plate.
Do you have a budget for this project? Will you use the space every day or just occasionally? Do you have room on your property for a studio (which might be a cheaper option than trying to convert the garage)?
I think you will find the conversation and links shared in this Q&A thread helfpul.