If you’re like most men, you probably use your garage to store all of your toys – whether it’s your car, lawnmower, or just a bunch of boxes. But if you’re not careful, all that stuff can start to make the space pretty humid, which isn’t ideal in the wintertime. So if you’re looking for a way to dehumidify your garage, read on! We’ll discuss a few different options and how they work.
Causes of condensation in the garage
A few different things can cause condensation in your garage, but the most common is simply having too much stuff stored in there. When there’s not enough airflow, the air inside the garage can start to feel moist – especially if it’s warmer than the outside air. It can happen even if you have a heater in the garage, so it’s important to ensure plenty of ventilation.
Another common cause of condensation is using your garage as a workshop. If you’re constantly working with tools and materials that release moisture, it can make the air inside the garage pretty humid. Even something as simple as a painting can release enough moisture to cause problems.
Last but not least, your garage door itself can be a source of condensation. If it’s not properly insulated, the warm air inside your garage can escape through the door and cause condensation on the outside. It is especially true in the wintertime when the temperature difference between the inside and outside of your garage is greatest.
Take care of leaks and condensation immediately
If you notice any leaks or condensation in your garage, it’s important to take care of them right away. These problems can quickly lead to bigger issues, like mold and mildew growth, so it’s best to nip them in the bud as soon as possible.
There are a few different ways to deal with leaks and condensation. You can use caulk or weatherstripping to seal up any cracks or gaps that you find. You can also use a dehumidifier for garage to help remove moisture from the air.
If you’re not sure how to deal with a particular problem, plenty of guides and tutorials online can help. Or, you can always hire a professional to do it for you.
Ways to dehumidify your garage
There are a few different ways to dehumidify your garage, but the most effective is simply ventilating it more. It can be as simple as opening the door when you’re working in there or installing a fan to help circulate the air. If you have an attic above your garage, you can also try opening the access door to let some warm air escape.
If you’re serious about keeping your garage dry, you might want to invest in a ventilation system. These systems work by circulating the air in your garage, which can help to keep the humidity level down.
Control your garage’s temperature
One of the best ways to prevent condensation is to keep your garage at a consistent temperature.
If it’s too cold, the air will feel damp, and the humidity can get out of control if it’s too hot. Ideally, you should aim for a temperature somewhere in the middle – around 65 degrees Fahrenheit is often cited as a good target.
Of course, hitting that perfect temperature can be difficult, especially if you’re using your garage as a workshop. In that case, you might want to consider investing in a space heater or other heating device that can help you control the temperature.
Get rid of junk in the garage
If you’re serious about dehumidifying your garage, one of the best things you can do is get rid of anything that’s taking up space and not being used. The more stuff you have stored in there, the harder it will be to keep the air circulating, so it’s important to be ruthless in decluttering.
Get rid of your old garage fridge or freezer
Another source of moisture in your garage is an old fridge or freezer sitting there for years. Even if it’s not turned on, these appliances can release enough moisture to make the air feel damp. So if you’re not using them, get rid of them!
Always dry a wet car after parking in a garage
If you park your car in the garage, dry it off afterward. It is especially important if you live in an area with a lot of humidity. Water left on your car can start to rust and damage the paint, so it’s best to avoid it if possible.
Check your drain
If you have a floor drain in your garage, it’s important to ensure that it’s not clogged. A clogged drain can cause water to back up and lead to flooding, only making the problem of condensation worse. So, if you have a floor drain in your garage, be sure to check it periodically and clear any debris that might be blocking it.
Use a dehumidifier
Another option is to use a dehumidifier. These devices work by removing moisture from the air, which can help to keep your garage dry. Dehumidifiers come in all different sizes, so you can find one that’s just right for your needs.
If you decide to go this route, get a dehumidifier with an automatic shut-off feature. You don’t have to worry about it running all day and using up all your electricity.
Install an insulated garage door
Another way to reduce condensation is to install an insulated garage door. It will help keep the warm air inside your garage from escaping, which can make a big difference in the humidity level.
If you’re not sure how to insulate your garage door, plenty of guides and tutorials online can help. Or, you can always hire a professional to do it for you.
Use a moisture absorber
Moisture absorbers are another option for dehumidifying your garage. These devices work by absorbing moisture from the air, which can help to keep the space dry. The most popular type of moisture absorber is a “desiccant,” a material that absorbs water from the air.
You can find desiccants at most hardware stores, and they’re usually pretty inexpensive. Just be sure to get one specifically designed for use in a garage, as some of them can be toxic if used incorrectly.
Apply flooring sealant
If you have a concrete floor in your garage, one way to prevent moisture from seeping up is to apply a sealant. It will create a barrier that will keep the moisture from coming through. There are plenty of different types of sealants available, so be sure to choose one that’s right for your needs.
Use a vapor barrier
Another way to prevent moisture from entering your garage is to use a vapor barrier. It is a material that will prevent water vapor from passing through, keeping the space much drier.
Vapor barriers are available at most hardware stores, and they’re usually pretty inexpensive. Just be sure to choose one specifically designed for use in a garage, as some products can be toxic if used incorrectly.
Place some plants in your garage
You may not realize it, but plants can help to absorb moisture from the air. So if you’re looking for a natural way to reduce condensation in your garage, consider placing some plants in the space.
There are plenty of different plants that can help with this, so do some research and see which ones would be best for your needs. Just be sure to place them in an area where they’ll get plenty of sunlight, as they’ll need it to grow.
These are just a few things you can do to reduce condensation in your garage.
By taking these steps, you can help keep your garage dry and comfortable, and you can avoid rust and other damage caused by moisture.
