You get your home ready for winter, so why neglect your garage?

Your garage isn't just a place to park your car or stash tools -- it's often where you store valuable items that don't appreciate freezing temperatures. Taking the time to winterize your garage protects your belongings, improves comfort, and if it's attached, can even help your home stay warmer and more energy-efficient.

At RetroFoam of Michigan, we've helped thousands of homeowners create more comfortable, energy-efficient spaces -- from houses and pole barns to garages and commercial buildings. While adding insulation plays a big role, there are several easy steps you can take to winter-proof your garage this season.

Don't let Old Man Winter and Jack Frost take over your space. Here's how to keep your garage warm in the winter and ready for anything.

Steps to Get Your Garage Ready for Winter

Taking the steps to prep your garage for winter can make it more comfortable, energy-efficient, and organized for when spring hits.

Let’s take a look at these eight things to get your garage ready for winter.

1. Organize and Declutter Your Garage

Start your garage winter preparation with a clean slate.

Get rid of the clutter that's collecting dust and make room for what you actually need. Store lawn equipment, bikes, and summer gear up high, and keep your snow shovels, ice melt, and snowblower easily accessible.

Clearing the floor also lets you spot leaks, cracks, or signs of pests before they become winter problems.

2. Prevent Liquids and Cleaners from Freezing

Many garage cleaners, paints, and chemicals can freeze and burst when temperatures drop.

Keep them safe by storing them inside insulated cabinets or sealed plastic bins. Better yet, move temperature-sensitive products into the house or basement where it's warmer.

3. Seal Around Outlets, Pipes, and Gaps

Tiny cracks around outlets and pipes let in more cold air than you'd expect.

Use expanding foam or caulk to seal any gaps or openings, especially around electrical boxes, vents, and plumbing penetrations. This simple step helps reduce drafts and makes it easier to keep your garage warm in winter.

4. Winterize Your Summer Equipment

Don't let your mower or trimmer sit with old gasoline all season.

Drain the gas, clean the equipment, and store it properly, according to This Old House. On the flip side, get your snowblower tuned up and ready so it starts on the first pull when the snow hits.

5. Weatherize and Replace Old Weatherstripping

Your garage doors and windows are major culprits for energy loss.

Inspect the weatherstripping -- if it's cracked, brittle, or missing, replace it. Fresh weatherstripping and a bead of caulk around windows and doors can prevent cold air infiltration and moisture damage, making a huge difference in comfort.

6. Seal and Protect the Garage Floor

Road salt and melted snow can wreak havoc on your concrete floor.

Reseal your garage floor before winter to protect against corrosion, cracks, and crumbling. A sealed floor also makes spring cleanup easier once the slush and salt are gone.

7. Protect Pipes and Your Water Heater

If your garage has exposed pipes or a water heater, they're vulnerable to freezing temperatures.

Wrap pipes in foam insulation sleeves to prevent freezing and possibly bursting. For your water heater, use an insulated covering to keep it from working overtime to maintain hot water during the coldest months.

8. Add Insulation to Keep Your Garage Warm in Winter

The most effective way to keep a garage warm in winter is to insulate it properly.

Adding foam insulation to your garage walls and ceiling creates an air seal that keeps heat in and cold air out. This not only protects stored items but also makes the space comfortable if you use it as a workshop, gym, or hangout area.

If your garage is attached to your home or has a bonus room above, insulation also prevents heat loss and stops cold drafts from creeping into your living space. Even insulating the shared wall between your home and garage can improve your home's overall comfort and efficiency.

Choosing the Best Insulation for Your Garage

The right insulation depends on how you use your space.

Homeowners who want the best air seal and comfort often choose foam insulation. Unlike fiberglass and cellulose, foam fills every nook and cranny, eliminating air leakage -- which is crucial when winterizing a garage.

Foam insulation can also reduce noise and limit odors, especially helpful if your garage is attached or used frequently.

If you're serious about preparing your garage for winter, insulation is the upgrade that pays off in comfort, energy savings, and protection for years to come. When you're ready, give us a call at 866-900-3626 or fill out the form on our website to request a free consultation.

Key Points:

• Clean and declutter: Organization helps you spot leaks and pests early.
• Protect liquids: Store paints and chemicals where they won't freeze.
• Seal gaps: Stop cold air around outlets, pipes, and doors.
• Service equipment: Winterize mowers and prep your snowblower.
• Weatherproof doors and windows: Replace cracked weatherstripping and add caulk.
• Seal the floor: Prevent salt corrosion and cracking.
• Insulate pipes and water heaters: Avoid freezing and improve efficiency.
• Add insulation: Foam insulation keeps your garage warm and energy-efficient all winter long.

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