Do you spend a lot of time working on projects in your garage? If so, you’ll want to think about the indoor air quality. From engine fumes to chemicals from storage items, the space most likely has particles in the air that can be harmful to breathe.
Garages also tend to get extremely hot in the summer (and you don’t want those musty smells that come with it). The solution to all of this is to properly ventilate your garage. When there is air circulation, it helps regulate the temperature inside and prevents hazardous gasses from accumulating indoors.
In this guide, we’ll show you six different ways to ensure proper garage ventilation and keep fresh air inside.
Importance of Quality Airflow
Adequate garage ventilation allows harmful fumes to escape while clean air enters the structure. If you use machinery or store chemicals like gasoline in your garage, there should definitely be fresh air circulating at all times. If not, these chemicals can seep into your house if you have an attached garage, which can lead to illness from inhaling the fumes.
Mildew is another problem that can occur in poorly ventilated garages. Since molds thrive in dark, moist environments, ventilation is a must. A closed environment filled with moist air can lead to dangerous mold growth, and inhaling the spores can cause illness, breathing problems, headaches, and more.
Also, if you live in an especially humid climate, you definitely don’t want to neglect your garage. Stale air can become trapped inside of it and cause those unpleasant smells we know all too well.
Garage Ventilation Options
Now that you know why your garage needs ventilation, the next step is to figure out the best method to do it. Here are a few options to try.
1. Add Roof Vents
One way to increase the level of ventilation in your garage or shed is to install a ridge vent. This type of vent is one of the most common exhaust vents and is installed on the peak or ridge of your garage roof. Ventilation occurs when warm air goes out of the ridge vent while fresh air flows in through it.
Another type is the gable vent. This one is commonly used on a gable style roof and is visible just beneath the edge of the garage roof. Since warm air rises, this type of ventilation gives it a way to escape from the structure. Just be sure not to stack anything in front of the gable vents in your garage so the air can freely flow out.
2. Open Windows for Fresh Air
Windows are probably the easiest and most popular way to bring fresh air inside and clear out the stuffiness. Their main drawback, however, is if you live in a hotter climate. Keeping windows open may actually increase the heat and humidity levels inside in this case, so it’s best if you choose a different option.
3. Use Doors to Aid Airflow
Doors are another quick and easy solution to ventilate the garage space, especially when using the garage door. Like windows, doors aren’t as effective as other options. Leaving windows and doors open may also be a security risk depending where you live.
4. Install Exhaust Fans
Exhaust fans are one of the best ventilation methods for a garage in any climate. Not only do they help regulate indoor temperatures, but also allow fumes and gasses like carbon monoxide (CO) to escape. This is extremely important for attached garages, where CO released from running car engines can leak into the home and poison the air.
The best place to install exhaust fans in your garage is high up on a wall or the ceiling, away from entryways into the home.
5. Add Floor and Ceiling Fans
In addition to exhaust fans, you can buy a floor or ceiling fan for the garage. These fans are available in a variety of sizes and come in handy for a two-car garage space or larger. Floor and ceiling fans also create a nice cool breeze for when you’re spending a lot of leisure time in the garage on a warm day.
6. Mount an Air Conditioning Unit
Air conditioners are often overlooked as ventilation options because their main use is to cool a space. However, cooler air in the garage actually helps reduce dust and pollen in the air, and lowers humidity levels that would otherwise cause mold growth.
Factors to Consider
As with any type of installation, there are a few factors to keep in mind for your garage ventilation system. Let’s explore a few.
- Garage Size: A space meant for two or more cars will possibly need more than one type of ventilation system as opposed to a smaller, one-car garage.
- Climate Control: If you’re living in a warm climate area, you’ll want to choose a ventilation method that best reduces heat and humidity levels.
- Insulation: Since vents permit external air to flow inside, insulating your garage is necessary to keep it warm during winter months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I vent my garage with no windows?
Installing exhaust fans is an effective way to create garage ventilation without windows. These types of fans pull fresh air from outside and push it into the garage.
Is a garage exhaust fan worth it?
If your garage doesn’t have windows or you prefer to keep entryways shut, an exhaust fan is a worthy investment. It helps keep fumes out and regulates temperature and moisture levels.
What is the best way to ventilate my garage?
The best ventilation method will depend on your garage size, style, and personal preference. For example, you may find that both an air conditioner and an exhaust fan work well together in your space.
Nowadays, we spend a lot of time in our garages for projects and hobbies, so it’s important that we can breathe safely inside! Ensure proper ventilation of your garage using our 3D Builder. Here, you can customize your garage design with windows and doors, and add other features to fit your tastes.
Get an instant price for your new carport or metal garage.
Price and Buy Online with Our 3D Builder Plus Free Shipping and Installation!
- Select a size to meet your needs
- Choose roof, side, and trim colors
- Add garage doors, windows, and walk-in doors
- Customize additional options
