In a bit of a dilemma! I live in Alvin , Tx so it gets very humid and hot . I just built a 40x40x14 , highest peak is 20ft with 3:12 pitch. It’s a red iron building with a 20ft carport and the insulation is that basic white vinyl back bat insulation and is 4” on roof and walls . I have 4 roll up doors . 3 12x12’s and one 12x10. Doors aren’t insulated but I will add foam to them . I’m not sure if it’s worth putting in ac in the shop or what do I exactly need to make it comfortable. I have two ridge vents now but will take them out if I ac the shop . I just want a comfortable working area . 80°f and below is fine for me . Just don’t want a fat electrical bill. Not sure if my building is efficient enough to even waste putting a mini split or other means of ac In there . Any help is appreciated.!
40x40 how to cool or is it worth it ?????
- Thread starter coltonq23
- Start date
If you want to work with the doors closed in the summer, you'll need A/C. Removing the humidity is number one. If you want to work with doors open lots of fans, but the humidity will always be there. My old shop in Amarillo was about the same size, easier to heat but i never had A/C.
Hard decision…. Can’t figure out what to do . I don’t really want ridge vents they seem sloppy and waiting to leak
Your way South- A/C all the way but....
Any thought on adding a ceiling?
A dual head mini split might be the cheapest route but your shop has an open ceiling so lots of space to keep cool.
I think 36K is the largest this place sells.
https://www.premiumhomesource.com/collections/mrcool-diy-dual-zone-mini-splits?page=2
Last edited:
Also thought about insulating more and adding sheet rock or plywood or r panel on the inside walls and ceiling but I like the high ceilings
TxFireman1972
New member
- Joined
- May 7, 2009
- Messages
- 2
What did you end up doing? I’m in the same situation and in the SE Texas area too.
My Old Tools
Well-known member
Mine is red iron 30x40x12 with a 6 pitch so 22 feet tall. Walls are insulated same as yours, but I had them add 8 more inches on the ceiling with strapping. Well worth it. A 36k MrCool handles it easily, probably could have done 24k. Best thing I've done to the shop. I have seven large windows and a 12x12 insulated door.
Attachments
cvairwerks
Well-known member
Spend the money on a BIg *** fan. Friends have an insulated 140x140 hangar here in the DFW area and even in the hottest part of the summer, it's not bad in there with one door open and the fans going. They've got a pair of either 18 footers or 24 footers.