If you’re remodeling your home to include an ADU, one of the most important things to consider is how you’ll heat and insulate the new space. There are a number of different options available, and it can be tough to decide which is best for your needs. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the most popular heating and insulation methods for garage ADUs. We’ll also provide tips on how to choose the right option for your home.
Heat and insulate the new living space it’s crucial for many reasons, for example, to keep the space comfortable for occupants, reduce the amount of energy needed to heat or cool the space (which can save money on utility bills), improve indoor air quality by reducing the amount of pollutants that can enter the space through drafts, reduce noise pollution from outside sources, and help prevent moisture damage, mold, and mildew growth.
One of the most common heating methods for garage ADUs is electric baseboard heaters. They are typically placed at the bottom of a wall and can be used to heat an entire room. Baseboard heaters are relatively inexpensive to install and operate, can be used in a variety of different climates, and they provide a good source of supplemental heat. If you live in an area with cold winters, you’ll want to make sure that your baseboard heater is properly sized for the space.
A different option is to install radiant floor heating. This is a type of space heating that heats a room by warming the floor. Radiant floor heating can be used to supplement other types of heat, or it can be the primary source of heat for a room. Radiant floor heating is typically more expensive to install than baseboard heaters, but it is more efficient and can provide even heating throughout a space.
Another important consideration for your garage ADU is insulation. Insulating the space properly will help to keep the temperature consistent and will also reduce noise transfer from the outside. If you live in a cold climate, you’ll want to make sure that your insulation is rated for freezing temperatures. In a hot climate, you’ll want to choose an insulation that won’t hold heat in the space.
Some common insulation materials include fiberglass, cellulose, spray foam, and rigid foam.
- Fiberglass: is made from glass fibers. It’s inexpensive and easy to install, but it can settle over time, which can reduce its effectiveness.
- Cellulose: made from recycled paper products. It’s environmentally friendly and provides good soundproofing, but it can be difficult to install properly.
- Spray foam is a newer type of insulation that expands to fill voids and gaps. It’s very effective at sealing spaces and preventing air leaks, but it can be expensive to install.
- Rigid foam: comes in sheets or panels. It’s easy to install and provides good thermal resistance, but it doesn’t provide much soundproofing.
Each type of insulation has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to do your research before deciding which is best for your needs.
Choosing the right heating and insulation for your garage ADU can be a challenge. But with a little research, you’ll be able to find the best option for your needs. Follow these tips and you’ll be sure to keep your new space comfortable all year long.
If you are looking to heat and insulate your ADU garage, book a consultation now!