Putting in new flooring at home can be a breeze if you know what you’re doing. The same can’t be said for garage flooring. It can be not easy to build a garage floor. In contrast to interior floors, Garage floors are subjected to extreme amounts of wear and tear from various sources, including your vehicle and numerous tonnes of auto parts.
Furthermore, wear and tear can be caused by various sources, including oil spills, tools, and the environments in which the projects are carried out. In short, there are many potential sources of damage in a garage. As a result, you’ll need sturdy flooring that can take the beating that will inevitably come its way. While several garage flooring options exist, whether or not wood can be used on such a surface still needs to be answered. However, if you’re wondering if wood is a viable option for garage flooring, it is.
Can a wooden floor be installed in a garage? Yes. The garage is an acceptable location for a wood floor. There are two main varieties of garage wood floor systems. Two types of wood flooring systems are available: those with peel-and-stick joints and those with interlocking joints. Garage flooring benefits from interlocking joint floor systems despite their shared characteristics.
Things To Consider When Choosing Wood As A Garage Floor
Wood Species
It’s important to consider the unique characteristics of each wood species. Some species of wood may be more durable than others, while others are still resistant to things like water and mould. Think about what you’ll be doing and how the wood you’re utilising behaves.
The Wood’s Condition
Because of its biological nature, wood is susceptible to deterioration and rot. Before buying wood, it’s important to look for warning indicators that the timber might not be suitable for building.
The Wood’s Treatment
To preserve wood from moisture, it is dried, sanded, filled with oil/wax, and finished with varnish. The wood’s natural beauty, durability, and functionality are all maintained through treatment.
Environment
If wood is left in the wrong environment, it will rot. Moisture, whether from the air, another substance, inadequate insulation, the ground, etc., is the leading cause of wood decay.
Installation Of Wooden Garage Floor
There are a few things to remember before beginning the installation of a wooden floor in your garage. You can’t just grab wood planks and lay them on the concrete or whatever else you work with. To create a flat and usable surface, you must remove everything down to the concrete.
Start At The Bottom
It is preferable to operate directly on the concrete; any underneath layers or irregularities must be eliminated. You must remove them and any paint or other coverings that may have been placed over the concrete.
Maintaining Proper Garage Insulation
Insulate and protect the wood flooring from the cold and wet before installing it in the garage, whether you plan to use it as a living area, recreation room, gym, or to cover up the concrete floor.
Even if your garage is dry and comfortable, converting it into a living area or installing wooden flooring will increase heat retention, reduce ventilation, and decrease resistance to moisture. The subfloor of any flooring you install must be insulated. Install a membrane to prevent water from penetrating the concrete and seeping into the lower wall sections if you can.
Picking The Ideal Wood
Pressure-treated plywood is ideal for heavy furniture, storage, boxes, and living, making it a good choice for transforming a garage into a habitable space. It’s strong enough to sustain regular use as a home. Wood that has been treated to repel fluids like chemicals and oils is what you need if you’re set on using it for that purpose. Typical wood won’t hold up to the heat and humidity of your car, let alone any oil or water it might leak.
Laying The Wood
The best way to keep the wood in place is to use adhesive; spread it out over an area of the floor that’s the same size as the piece of wood you’re about to place, and don’t let any adhesive dry without the wood in place before tapping it into place with a hammer and tapping block.
Making Use Of A Garage Door Deal
You need a garage door seal because if water keeps seeping in from under the door, it can ruin the wood flooring and corrode whatever you’ve stored in the garage. As a result of increased exposure to the elements, both cold and heat, the garage suffers without one. To protect the garage from the weather, the entrance is sealed with a lengthy rubber seal that runs the length of the garage floor. Take careful measurements of the required length and verify that the desired height is obtained for a proper fit and seal.
How To Safeguard A Wooden Floor
Water, fungi, and dampness are the three most common causes of wood degradation. Here are some things you can do to extend the life of your wooden floor.
Paint
The painted wood will last longer without deteriorating from exposure to the outdoors.
Preservatives
Wood can be preserved in several ways, from mechanical processing to chemical treatment.
Soil And Wood
Under no circumstances should wood be placed directly on the ground. The organic matter found in soil can promote fungi’s growth, weakening the wood’s structural integrity. Wood can also be harmed by the soil’s moisture content, which increases with warmth.
Concrete And Wood
Roll roofing and other moisture-blocking barriers should be installed to protect the wood from the concrete below. Because the concrete floor of a garage sits on top of the ground, it is important to have concrete projections for the wood to rest on.
Ventilation
Moisture accumulation on the wood, which a lack of air might cause, encourages decay-inducing fungi. Cross-ventilation, a system that allows air to enter easily and exit space in that region, is the best technique to avoid this.
Exceptional Design
A well-designed system will minimise the time the wood spends exposed to the weather. Wood’s useful life can be shortened or lengthened depending on aesthetic considerations like the design of your window sills, railings, and doors. Water should be able to flow away from the structure at all times. The accumulation of water and its subsequent infiltration into the wood can be avoided by altering the angle or adding slopes.
Maintenance
Keep this checklist handy, and always be on the lookout for indicators of wood decay, such as dry rot.
- Inspect the pipes regularly.
- Check for cracks in the paint or sealant frequently.
- Keep the gutters clean.
- Make routine checks of basements and attics to ensure they are safe to inhabit.
- Decomposing organic matter should be kept well away from wood.
The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Wood Garage Flooring
The Benefits
You have yet to decide on what would work best in your garage. As was mentioned, cement is frequently used for garage floors. Considering the benefits and risks of this investment is important. First, let’s look at the benefits.
Comfort
The garage is where you might spend a lot of time working or relaxing. If you’ve ever spent a whole day working on a concrete floor, you know how painful it is on the body. While you need to be on your knees and feet for long periods, like while working on wood floors, your body will thank you.
Durability
One eco-friendly and long-lasting choice for garage flooring is wood. Heavy loads are no problem for pressure-treated wood. In addition to serving as a storage space, your garage may also be able to accommodate the following:
- Benches
- Vehicles
- Tools
Wooden floors, if cared for properly, can outlast cement without the same level of wear and breaking. An added bonus is that individual pieces can be swapped out in the event of damage or compromise.
Insulation
The insulation options for a cement floor are more limited than those for a wooden floor. While a cement floor can help keep things cool in the summer, it won’t help things warm up in the winter. Insulating your garage floor with wood could help you maintain a comfortable temperature all year.
Ease
Another perk of wooden floors is that they are simple to remove without damaging the subfloor. This is helpful information to have if you’re setting up a dust collection system. In addition, it simplifies the process of bringing electricity to previously inaccessible areas. Many people prefer having a garage because it allows them to work in a space that best suits their needs.
Drawbacks
Consequences should be considered with benefits whenever possible. Garage flooring made of wood has a few limitations, even though it may appear like a good, appealing choice. If you have all the information, you can make a better decision.
Spills And Fire
A fire risk is always present when a building is made of wood. Ensure the wood you use has been treated to prevent it from catching fire. Wood, unlike cement, shows stains and spills more readily. You must deal with oil leaks if you keep your automobile in the garage.
Humidity And Moisture
Humidity and moisture can accelerate the warping and decay of wood. This is the reason for alarm in a storage area like a garage. Using engineered hardwood and treating/sealing your flooring can help with this.
Pests
It’s important to think about the possibility of inviting pests into your home while installing wooden flooring. Underneath a concrete slab, animals can’t make a home. Depending on where you are, you may have to deal with or even fight off pests in your workplace.
Mobility
One factor to think about is how convenient it is to move around. A smooth cement floor may facilitate the movement of wheeled tools, machinery, workbenches, and dollies. A wooden floor may be less pleasant, but it must still be smoother.
What Exactly Is Dry Rot, And How Serious Is It?
Wood that has had any moisture removed from it will eventually dry rot. Wood that has been affected by dry rot becomes weak and brittle. If uncontrolled, the problem can quickly spread throughout the building and undermine the wood’s structural integrity. Dry rot is dangerous since it is not immediately apparent; you will only discover it if you actively hunt for it.
How Much Can Dry Rot Be Avoided, Particularly In A Garage?
- Find strategies to prevent water from entering the garage. Every opening (garage door, windows, and the front entrance) should have an overhang to keep water out.
- When it comes to ventilation, it’s best to have a minimum of two openings or exits available.
- When building, pay special attention to the installation of any wood products. There must be no holes or splits in the wood or cracks in the concrete. Taking the right steps, such as treating the concrete and the wood, will ensure they last as long as possible and look as good as new. Utilities, such as pipes, should be properly installed and leak-free.
- You shouldn’t wash your automobile there if your garage has a wooden floor. If you want to wash your automobile, do it in the driveway. Water will not dry completely beneath a roof, increasing the likelihood of seeping into the wood instead of just saturating it.
- Take care of the items you keep in your garage. If wood is exposed to organic waste for an extended period, fungi may develop on its surface.
- Recurrent scrubbings. Look for any symptoms of wood degradation and think of this as a checkup.
Conclusion
The climate has a big effect on garages, which are often not as well taken care of as houses. To keep your garage from falling apart, you might want to add insulation, curtains, vents, and fans. In warmer places, insulation is needed to keep warm and cool air out, protect sensitive items, and save money on energy costs. Curtains can also help keep the heat in and cut down on energy costs. Fans and vents are great ways to keep the garage cool and let in more air.
In colder places, insulation is important to keep the cold out of your car. Putting in insulation takes time and money, but it can save you money on your heating bills and protect your home from damage caused by freezing temps. Heavy curtains that are sealed can also keep the cold out. Put seals at the edges and openings of your windows and doors to keep the weather out.
To keep a garage at the right temperature, you might want to put insulation, heavy curtains, and weather-stripping on the windows and doors. These steps will protect the building and make the walls, floor, and floor covers last longer. By doing these things, you can keep your garage at a good temperature and make sure the things you store there are safe and secure.
To keep the temperature and humidity stable in a garage, you need climate control tools. Ventless combustion heaters, portable air conditioners, electric heaters, and window air conditioners are all common choices. During the warmer months, a dehumidifier can help keep the garage well-ventilated. Insulating garage doors is important for keeping the surroundings safe and comfortable.
In cold areas, doors should be made with wood that doesn’t rot, doors that don’t get wet, foam insulation, easy-to-use systems, and finishes that are good at wicking away moisture. In hot and humid places, doors should be water-resistant and have coatings that are resistant to heat and ultraviolet light. The hinges should also be powder-coated. Storm garage doors are made to survive winds of up to 150 mph and have glass that can protect against flying objects.
Safety depends on keeping a garage in good shape. Look for damage to the garage door and clean it with light soap or detergent. Clean up any dirt and dust before you vacuum, and buy a good push broom to make cleaning easier.
Using shelves, wall organisers, cabinets, and storage solutions in the ceiling, you can clean and organise the garage floor. Organising and storing small things in bins, hooks, boxes, and racks can help. If money is tight, turn old things into new ways to store things.
Lastly, check the walls, roof, and base often to make sure they can withstand harsh weather. If there are water spots on the walls or floor, it could be because the house settled unevenly or because the roof is leaking. If you take care of these problems quickly, mould growth is less likely to happen.
Content Summary
- Installing a garage floor can be more challenging than putting in flooring in other parts of the home.
- Garage floors are subject to extreme wear and tear, including the weight of vehicles and auto parts.
- Other sources of wear and tear in a garage include oil spills, tools, and environmental conditions.
- Due to the challenges, it’s essential to choose sturdy flooring for your garage.
- Wood is indeed a viable option for garage flooring.
- Two types of wooden garage flooring systems are available: peel-and-stick joints and interlocking joints.
- Interlocking joint systems are particularly beneficial for garage flooring.
- It’s crucial to consider the species of wood, as some are more durable and resistant to water and mould.
- Inspecting the condition of the wood for any signs of deterioration is essential before purchase.
- Wood treatments like drying, sanding, and varnishing help in preserving its natural beauty and durability.
- The environment in which the wood is placed plays a crucial role in its longevity; moisture is a significant factor.
- Before installing a wooden floor in your garage, remove any existing layers down to the concrete.
- Always start your installation by working directly on the concrete.
- Proper insulation is vital to protect the wood from cold and moisture.
- Even a dry and comfortable garage will benefit from insulation when converting it to a living space or installing wooden flooring.
- Pressure-treated plywood is ideal for heavy-duty use like storage and as a living space.
- The chosen wood must be treated to repel fluids like oils and chemicals.
- Using adhesive is the best way to secure the wooden planks to the floor.
- A garage door seal is essential to prevent water seepage, which can damage wooden flooring.
- The garage’s entrance should be sealed with a rubber seal to protect against the elements.
- Common causes of wood degradation include water, fungi, and dampness.
- Painting the wood can extend its life by protecting it from external elements.
- Wood preservatives can range from mechanical processing to chemical treatment.
- Wood should never be placed directly on the soil due to the risk of moisture and fungi.
- Installing moisture-blocking barriers between concrete and wood is crucial for longevity.
- Proper ventilation helps in reducing the accumulation of moisture on the wood.
- A well-designed system can help in extending the life of the wood.
- Regular maintenance checks for signs of wood decay, like dry rot, are necessary.
- Frequent inspections of pipes, paint cracks, and sealant are advised.
- Gutters should be kept clean to avoid water seepage and wood decay.
- The wooden floor offers comfort and is less hard on the body compared to concrete.
- Wood is an eco-friendly and durable choice for garage flooring.
- Pressure-treated wood can easily handle heavy loads like benches, vehicles, and tools.
- Wooden floors can be easily replaced piece by piece if damaged.
- Wooden floors offer better insulation options compared to concrete.
- Wooden floors are easier to remove without damaging the subfloor, offering flexibility in garage usage.
- One downside of wooden floors is the risk of fire.
- Wood is more susceptible to showing stains and spills than concrete.
- Humidity and moisture can cause warping and decay in wooden floors.
- A wooden floor may attract pests, unlike a concrete floor.
- Movement of wheeled tools and machinery might be less smooth on wooden floors.
- Dry rot in wood is a serious issue that weakens the material and can spread quickly.
- Preventive measures for dry rot include keeping water out of the garage and ensuring good ventilation.
- All wood installations should be meticulously done to prevent cracks and splits.
- It’s not advisable to wash cars in a garage with a wooden floor.
- Storing organic waste in a garage with a wooden floor can lead to fungi growth.
- Regular cleaning and inspections are crucial for maintaining the wooden floor’s integrity.
- Benefits and drawbacks should be carefully considered before deciding on wooden garage flooring.
- Engineered hardwood and proper sealing can mitigate the issue of moisture and warping.
- For those who spend a lot of time in their garage, wooden flooring can offer a comfortable and customisable solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Build A Wood Floor For The Garage?
We can build our garages as floorless models for placing on a concrete slab or footing. While being very strong, concrete is costly. The engineered wood floor system option makes owning a garage a possibility for many.
Can You Put Wood On A Concrete Floor?
Solid and engineered wood flooring can be laid onto a concrete subfloor.
Can You Use Plywood For A Garage Floor?
Concrete and plywood are common options for shop floors, but concrete may be too hard on your body, while plywood needs to be more durable to stand the test of time. Learn about some other options that can be used to support you and your machinery for years to come.
What Kind Of Wood Do You Use For Concrete Flooring?
You don’t have to feel limited when installing hardwood flooring over concrete. You can use traditional hardwood flooring, engineered hardwood, or laminate to achieve your look.
How Long Does Wood Last In Concrete?
When exposed to wet conditions such as trapped water, pressure-treated wood will rot in concrete. In optimal conditions, pressure-treated wood set in the earth may last as long as 40 years. However, when vertically set in a non-draining concrete base, pressure-treated wood may last only a few years.
