Alberta has experienced an exceptionally hot summer, with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. While some people enjoy the warmth, it can be uncomfortable and even dangerous for others, especially if they spend extended periods in the garage. Surprisingly, the garage temperature can be up to 10 degrees hotter than the outside temperature, making it unbearable during scorching days.
However, there are effective ways to keep your garage cool and comfortable throughout the summer.
What Happens to Garages in Extreme Heat
When garages are hot, several things can occur, and the elevated temperatures can have various impacts:
- Uncomfortable environment – High temperatures in the garage can create an uncomfortable and unpleasant environment for anyone inside. The intense heat can make it difficult to work, relax, or spend time in the space comfortably.
- Potential health risks – Excessive heat can pose health risks, especially if the garage lacks proper ventilation. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, or even heatstroke, particularly during heatwaves or extremely hot days.
- Damage to belongings – Items stored in the garage, such as tools, equipment, and certain materials, can be adversely affected by high temperatures. Extreme heat may cause items to warp, melt, or become damaged, reducing their longevity and functionality.
- Effect on vehicles – Vehicles parked in hot garages can experience adverse effects. Extreme heat can accelerate battery deterioration, cause tire pressure fluctuations, and potentially damage certain car components over time.
- Energy costs – If the garage is attached to the home, the excess heat can impact the overall indoor temperature. This may lead to increased cooling costs as the air conditioning system needs to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the house.
Tips to Beat the Heat
Park your vehicle outside after use
When your vehicle is turned off, residual heat continues to radiate from the engine and other components, contributing to the already high garage temperature. Parking your car outside after use is a simple solution to prevent additional heat from building up in the garage.
- Upgrade the insulation
Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining a cool garage during summer and a warmer one in winter. Many garages lack adequate insulation, which results in slower cooling and even impacts the indoor temperature of your home if the garage is attached. Additionally, replace damaged weatherstripping and silicone caulking to enhance insulation. While ventilated garage doors are an option, they might not be ideal for cold winters. - Utilize fans
Fans are a cost-effective way to circulate air and provide relief in the garage. Although they don’t lower the outside temperature, they promote air movement, making the space more bearable. - Avoid opening the door
Frequently opening the garage door can inadvertently contribute to higher temperatures inside the garage. Each time the door is opened, warm air from the outside rushes in, raising the internal temperature. This is particularly problematic during hot summer days when the outside air is already scorching. To mitigate this, try to minimize unnecessary openings and consider keeping the garage door closed during the hottest parts of the day. If ventilation is needed, use fans or windows strategically to circulate air without letting in excessive heat. - Install an awning or plant a tree
Providing shade for your garage can make a significant difference in keeping the space cooler. Installing an awning over the garage door or planting trees strategically around the garage can help block direct sunlight and reduce solar heat gain. The shade created by the awning or trees will help maintain lower temperatures within the garage, making it more comfortable for various activities. Additionally, incorporating greenery not only enhances the aesthetics of your property but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing energy consumption for cooling. - Choose lighter colours for your garage doors
Lighter colours have a higher albedo, meaning they reflect more sunlight rather than absorb it. When you choose lighter colours for your garage doors and the exterior of your home, they will absorb less heat from the sun, helping to keep the overall temperature down. Darker colours, on the other hand, tend to absorb more heat, which can contribute to higher temperatures inside the garage. Opting for light-coloured garage doors not only adds a fresh and inviting look to your property but also plays a role in reducing heat absorption and making the garage more comfortable during hot weather.
Update Your Garage With the Overhead Door Company of Lethbridge, Calgary & Cranbrook
If you spend significant time in your garage and face recurring record-breaking summers, it’s in your best interest to explore insulation upgrades or even consider replacing your residential garage door with a more suitable one.
We offer commercial garage door service, repairs, and installations. Contact us for all of your residential and commercial garage door needs. We provide both on-call and regularly-scheduled maintenance to keep your garage doors operating efficiently year-round.
With office locations in Lethbridge, Calgary, and Cranbrook, you can count on us to be here when you need us.