Should I put windows in a 24x60x16 garage?

[reader2580]

I am finally starting on my 24x60x16 garage build at the end of this month with the floating concrete slab being poured.

Should I include windows in my garage? If I did so they would be awning windows placed around 12 feet high on the side walls. Would I regret not having the windows? I don't want low windows to take up wall space and I don't want break ins. One reason not to put in windows is simply cost. I figure each window I add will cost between $250 and $300. (I will use Andersen 100 series windows.)

 

[The Cobbler]

I would miss not having a window in my garage even tho it's about 1/4 the size of yours

 

[Walkers]

Absolutely! Get some natural light and ventilation.

 

[nadogail]

The savings on lighting by having windows or skylights are often overlooked when planning the initial build.

If you install skylights don’t overlook burglar bars on the insides.

My next garage door will include windows. I enjoy the free lighting.

 

[dcg9381]

Should I include windows in my garage? If I did so they would be awning windows placed around 12 feet high on the side walls. Would I regret not having the windows? I don't want low windows to take up wall space and I don't want break ins. One reason not to put in windows is simply cost. I figure each window I add will cost between $250 and $300. (I will use Andersen 100 series windows.)

Next shop, I'm going to do windows exactly like this. Rectangles, mostly horizontal. Tuck them in just below the eve.
Tax man can't see in them, no neighbors to peek in, no risk of damage due to hail, and they let light in. "Picture windows" in this size (don't open) are pretty cheap.

 

[reader2580]

Next shop, I'm going to do windows exactly like this. Rectangles, mostly horizontal. Tuck them in just below the eve.
Tax man can't see in them, no neighbors to peek in, no risk of damage due to hail, and they let light in. "Picture windows" in this size (don't open) are pretty cheap.

I won't have insulation or HVAC, at least not for some years, so I may want the windows to open even though it would take a ladder to open them.

 

[reader2580]

Is there a reason to go with Andersen 100 Series windows, or just go cheaper like Jeld-Wen? One requirement is sandtone to match the windows in my house. Tan siding with white windows doesn't look great as that is what my neighbors have.

 

[dcg9381]

I won't have insulation or HVAC, at least not for some years, so I may want the windows to open even though it would take a ladder to open them.

No objection from me. Course opening the windows is inferior to a setup with fan(s) to actually move air through the building. I think your window idea is spot on.

 

[CombatNinja]

Is it a garage or a prison? There's your answer. Don't let fear of crime prevent you from taking reasonable steps to enjoy your life and the fruits of your labor. Sometimes the things you own end up owning you.

 

[Zeke]

Hopper or awning windows open with a stick and a hook. They are pretty secure too.

 

[BombShelter]

Hello neighbor, my shop has no windows and it ***** big time. I have every wall covered with vintage stereos but would surely move some to enjoy the snow fall or a heavy rain storm. High windows for ambiant light, low, just to look outside and enjoy the scenery. Just Do It!

 

[tarmy]

Yes

 

[Copymutt]

Got a deal on 6 x3 when i built mine, looks great but lost a lot of wall space

 

[readhead]

If you are mainly after light then install light panels. They are the same profile as the siding and pretty inexpensive. They are available in clear, white and tinted. I prefer the white because of the defused light.

Ventilation can be accomplished with ridge vents or a fan in one of the gables.

 

[shelteredV]

I have 22- 2 x 2 Anderson 100 series around the building with a 4 x 6 picture unit in the office. They are set at 72" and away (up) and provide decent light.

 

[acer66]

Yes

Not sure if I would get much done with that great view.

 

[reader2580]

If you are mainly after light then install light panels. They are the same profile as the siding and pretty inexpensive. They are available in clear, white and tinted. I prefer the white because of the defused light.

I am not using metal siding so the light panels won't really work all that well. I am doing stick built with sheathing and LP smartside siding to meet city requirements.

 

[reader2580]

Hopper or awning windows open with a stick and a hook. They are pretty secure too.

The awning windows I would use are the type that are like a casement window turned 90 degrees. The parochial school I went to had the type of awning windows you open with a long pole.

 

[charbar]

The more windows the better if you ask me. Natural light plus being able to see outside to keep your sanity is great. There's a million reasons to have windows and the only reason I would think about not having them is if I lived in a very high crime rate area. But if you are putting yours up high that helps with that situation.

When I was building my shop I stopped by Menards and they had Jeld-Wen windows on sale so I grabbed three or four more and also got a few pretty cheap from a local window place that were mis ordered and they were trying to get rid of. I have eight pretty good sized windows in a 40x72 shop and one is a 5x5 that is awesome for letting in light and being able to see outside. I would build my next shop out of nothing but glass if it was possible.

I cant speak for the Jeld-Wen vs. Anderson. My house has Andersons but as I mentioned earlier I have some Jeld-Wens in the shop. They seal up fine, let light through, and open and close just fine....what more can you ask from a window?

$250-300 a window seems steep but even at that it isn't going to add a whole lot to the overall price of the building. Just do it and don't think about it.....you'll be much happier that you just did it instead of trying to take the cheaper route and feel like you're working in a Spam can for the rest of your life.

 

[MushCreek]

I'm planning to put a couple windows in my shop. When the power goes out (and it does), it's pitch dark in there, and with all of the 'treasures' in my shop, it's pretty dangerous trying to find your way out. It's either that, or an automatic lighted exit sign.

 

[PelicanPines]

If you put in a window... You will also need a cat ...to sit in it.

 

[bad_idea]

Definitely add some windows. I recommend at least one good sized one at 4' high behind the workbench. It is nice to have a view standing at the bench. Also very nice to open the window for some fresh air.

A building of that size has plenty of wall space. Add some windows. As far as security, put in some cameras. Put the cameras in conspicuous places, easily seen.

 

[cherokee]

I think it is a you thing. Mine has no windows, but I am not quite "normal". When I want the outside world I will open the "garage" door and look out. That is not real often. I go to my shop to escape from the world. It is just me, the dog and what I am working on. It brings me back to center. Not many people are ever out there with me. Once and a while the wife, or my grown kid if I need muscles. But no.

All that said, I would like to have windows to open to let the heat out. With yours being 12' high I am not sure how easy it would be to open and close the windows.

I like being closed in there. My shop is a simple pole barn with metal sides. Even at that it is a Faraday box, your cell phone will only work if you are by the walk in door, not the big garage door. So you are really cutoff. I generally leave it on a little shelf I built by the door as I am on call 24x7x365 so you can never really escape, the world will come to you if it wants you. Having a car in your driveway with lights on top is a downer. Hay X has happened we could not get you, yea I was in the shop and cell is iffy at best, you have the house number call it. They never do, not in 20 years.

It all depends on you and what you want. With LED's I don't miss the light.

 

[Stuart in MN]

If you want them and they fit your budget, then yes. You may want to watch for used windows on Craigslist or other sources. Another possibility are architectural salvage stores - The big one locally is Bauer Brothers (https://bauerbrosinc.com/) but there are several others like City Salvage or Architectural Antiques. I got the windows for my garage at Bauer Brothers years ago, they're vintage Andersens that match the windows in my 1913 house.

 

[Crabman]

Also do not overlook ambient heat in addition to light. I have windows on the south side of my shop. With the blinds up in the colder months it really helps warm it up on sunny days. In the warmer months I have to put the mini blinds down (mine are at a normal height, not 12 feet) to mitigate the warm up. If I am not around, I just put the blinds down. I am blessed to be in a very low crime area, so that is really not an issue for me.
Up north where you are I would think the heat up could be handy.
I have a second smaller shop which has tiny windows, I don't like it as much, but that is just me.

 

[reader2580]

$250-300 a window seems steep but even at that it isn't going to add a whole lot to the overall price of the building. Just do it and don't think about it.....you'll be much happier that you just did it instead of trying to take the cheaper route and feel like you're working in a Spam can for the rest of your life.

I've looked at both Menards.com and Homedepot.com and everything but the most basic vinyl awning window is more than $250. I probably wouldn't buy through either one of them, but I just used them as a price reference.

 

[u2slow]

I have one real window above my 14' OH door. The door inself has a strip of windows at 8-10' high. Plenty of light to grab something quick.

My contactor was quoting $1000ish per window, installed, 10 years ago. I placed
higher value on uninterrupted wall space, and security.

 

[Jackfre]

On my 30x34 I put windows on the view side away from the road. On the road side I put a couple 2x6‘ horiz windows at 6’ height. Nice light without showing much.

 

[firebirdparts]

I have no windows and I don't miss them.

 

[Dmm698]

Just going through this now, adding 24 foot to my existing 30x30, had no windows, and original OH 16 wide door had no windows. Hated it. Putting 3 36x48's on the one 54' side, 2 36x48's on the other 54' side + a 10x7 OH door for lawn mower / snowmobiles/ jetski trailer ect. 2 27x35's on the back wall. Double 30x50 mulled together in attic space.
I just bought Reliabuilts through lowes. if you put a quote through at the pro desk they come out fairly cheap.... I paid less than 160/window (there was a slight memorial day sale). They're halfway decent, U value less than .3 and SHGC less than .3.

 

[dcg9381]

SQUIRREL!!!

 

[bdbecker]

If the cost is not in the picture right now, you could always have the building framed for windows and then add them later. I would highly recommend putting one in that you can see out of, assuming you don't have an issue with crime in your area. Besides insulating, adding windows ranks a close second as one of the best modifications I've made to my shop. The natural light completely transformed the space.

 

[ddurrett896]

No windows and love it.

Man door has small fogged window at top that gives enough light to get to the door.

Garage door allows for plenty of ventilation and light when open plus LED power is basically free. Enjoy the wall space.

 

[outinthetallgrass]

I've looked at both Menards.com and Homedepot.com and everything but the most basic vinyl awning window is more than $250. I probably wouldn't buy through either one of them, but I just used them as a price reference.

Try looking on menards.com in the rays list area. It’s special order returns, and close outs you can find some good bargains there If you aren’t looking for a specific window.

 

[FredWanaker]

depending where you are it can be a security risk. Also I got tired of vacuuming up dead flys and spiders that loved to set up shop at the window. I would not do a window again. however if you are in a secure place with a nice view go for it.

 

[reader2580]

There isn't really a security risk. I have left my garage door open all night by mistake several times and nothing was taken. I have a few things sitting outside and nothing has been taken there either.

This building will be more of a storage building for my motorhome, my big lawn equipment, and my trailers than a shop.

 

[dcg9381]

I won't have insulation or HVAC, at least not for some years, so I may want the windows to open even though it would take a ladder to open them.

A less expensive option would be to use transparent R panel at the top of some of the vertical walls. Less expensive than windows, lets light in, and under the eve they aren't subject to hail damage. This assumes R panel sheeted building of course. Downside is that they provide very little R value.

 

[reader2580]

A couple of folks have mentioned transparent R panel, but the building will not have vertical metal siding due to city code. I am doing full stick built with sheathing and Smartside siding.

 

[mrbill55]

Not sure if I would get much done with that great view.

Yes

The rifle with the scope and suppressor below the window has me intrigued.


Bill S.

 

[Toomanytools?]

Yes on the windows.