Windows or no windows?

[spazegun2213]

That is the question... I have right now. My little 20' x 20' is taking shape and in the next week or so I'll be able to actually submit the special permit plans, WOOHOO (seriously this is a big victory for me after this summers problems).

but I'm working with a designer for plans and I'm wondering if I should add windows to the garage? At first I was not going to as it adds to the price and my last garage (townhouse) didnt have any. The garage is going to be in the back yard so its not like the windows are going to provide a view of anything but my yard, and the neighbors. However, a friend of mine commented on the heat/cooling aspects of windows that I had not thought about.

So what say you all? Should I add windows or not bother with it?

 

[RPH]

No windows. More for security than anything else. If they can't look in and figure if it's worth the time and bother they will move on to the next target. Not to mention windows are the easy way in. When working out there the lights are on anyways. Didn't have any in mine and have had no problems.

 

[xrdad]

2nd vote, no windows.

Mine is almost complete and no windows in it. In my case, I have enough doors to vent the shop, but if ventilation were a concern, a large exhaust fan would be my preference.

The garage I have now has windows in the doors, that I've put the tape on to obscure the view. It lets natural light in BUT when I'm in the shop, the door is open or it's dark out.. The window are there to make the house pretty and have nothing to do with how I use the garage.

So for the new shop, I wasn't going to spend any money on glass.

 

[38Chevy454]

I put two smaller 3x3 windows in my 26 x 48 garage. Just to get a small amount of sunlight in. You could put wide and short (like 6 x 1) non-functioning windows in up high to get light and not have the security issue. Or glass block if you just want light and not able to see through clearly.

 

[NewShockerGuy]

I would say windows.. personally I like natural light. It's more enjoyable knowing that I have some type of sunlight coming into the room... That being said however mentioned above is a good point. I'd consider no windows if you live in an unsafe community.. or stuff like that.

If it's safe then I would say there is no reason to not have windows...

This could always be an alternate:

They are pretty cheap, very strong and then you at least get some vents in the space and light but not have to worry about someone braking in because you can't really see through...etc.

-Nigel

 

[NitroPress]

I'd vote for high, small windows so that you can make some use of natural light and not HAVE to turn on a switch every time you step in to get a tool. You can also tell when it's getting dark and wander up for dinner without having to be yelled at.

Glass block or something else sturdy and attractive would be both secure and nicer than just sheet glass.

 

[930dreamer]

I like windows and the ability to have some cross flow for ventilation.

 

[rieferman]

Theft isn't a huge concern in my area, so I have several windows in my shop. I really enjoy the light that they bring in, and I like to be able to see the kids playing in the yard etc.

In a 20x20 though, space may be a concern - windows create a spot where you can't hang things on the walls. In your case, some short x wide windows up high (as mentioned above) might be a nice look that will allow some light in.

 

[isaac338]

I have windows in my shop; I never open them, and consider them a liability since they would be easy to break and provide very little light (I keep them covered to deter theft). However, I have two south facing skylights which I consider invaluable - they provide tons of light, and don't give a spot for crackheads to scope out, or get to, my gear.

 

[spazegun2213]

I would not say my neighborhood is unsafe, but I dont really want people seeing into the garage either. While I'd love natural light, I may just need to **** it up and add skylights later. I also dont really want to give away any of my wall space that I'm going to need.

I just wanted to make sure I was not crazy for not adding windows. thanks guys!

 

[Falcon67]

I'm putting 5 each 2x3 windows in mine. The ones that face the street are for lookin' out and the ones in the back for cross flow venting and to exhaust paint/other fumes from car work into the alley. My old shop had two 2x5 windows - nice to have.

 

[NewShockerGuy]

I just recongnized your name on here from NASIOC..lol

Ross man how you been?

This is Nigel (not sure if you remember me) Came over many times for install days, had the white sti with spec c roof vent. gave me a ride in the porche..etc.

-Nigel

 

[jamesemery728]

Forget the windows. First of all they are a security risk. Everyone who looks in your windows can see what you have to steal. Salesmen, servicemen, meter readers, kids, anyone who walks by always looks in the windows. Secondly you lose wall space by having windows. Thirdly they are bug collectors and you have to keep them clean. That said, I have two in my garage and I hate them for all the above reasons.

 

[PCO6]

I have garage door windows only and am very happy with them. To assist with the security aspect I did what you can see in post #'s 10 & 11 of ...
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=77512

 

[Zeke]

Windows in the garage door made a huge difference for me. I can't leave my door open because it's on an alley. The garage was a tomb until I got the door. The windows are obscure glass.

 

[Hawk Thor]

I agree with some of these guys.

Windows take up wall space and are a security risk. I was going to suggest long windows up high to provide light, but a skylight would definitely do more good.

I would put a fan on a wall to **** out air, and a vent on the roof to let air in.

 

[csp]

I like windows and natural light. As to the security risk, one of mine (1'tall x4' wide) is mounted almost 7' off the ground. Little risk there.

The other, a 2' wide x 3' tall, has cheapo vinyl blinds from WalMart and has been sprayed with window frosting similar to this:

 

[Falcon67]

Forget the windows. First of all they are a security risk. Everyone who looks in your windows can see what you have to steal.

LOL - they are called "blinds" and they work well. And I really don't consider windows any more of a security risk than a $140 steel door or a 16 gauge 16' overhead the you could crush easy with a little push from a bumper. If nobody sticks their head out to look, 30 seconds with a chain saw will open the OSB/siding up real nice. If they want it, they are coming in windows or not. I just plan to have the major access areas inside the fence so the dog can lick 'em while they are trying to get in and security/motion floods on all corners.

 

[spazegun2213]

Skylights are not out of the question, but I think for cost, security, and other aspects listed above, I'm not going to put windows in.

However, after installing ~36,000 lumens of light in my old garage, I know how much light I want to add in this garage since it will be a cave (since I'm not even putting windows in the garage door).

As for the ventilation aspect, I might just get creative with a few fans when I need to.

 

[Trey T]

Windows. I believe it's a good way to save money w/o having to use your shop light so much.

If you have theft problem, you should worry about your homes. I believe not having windows won't stop thieves breaking into a shop whether he knows for sure that there are tools in there, they will break in.

 

[Thirsty]

I guess I live in a safe neighborhood, I have the big garage door up all day when its nice and leave to go to the store with out shutting it. I like windows, fresh air, sunlight. I have a new TV in the garage now which has me a little concerned but not much.

 

[MyKingdom]

I guess I live in a safe neighborhood, I have the big garage door up all day when its nice and leave to go to the store with out shutting it. I like windows, fresh air, sunlight. I have a new TV in the garage now which has me a little concerned but not much.

Same here, so far so good.

 

[slickgt1]

Another vote for windows. You don't need huge windows or anything, but a good 2x2 foot one, so that you get the nice outside air in the morning. You can also do suntunnels for more lighting. Frost the window if you want security, but put some in. It will feel less of a prison.

 

[Sureshot]

I am neutral on windows but think it is a sad testiment to things when the decision is based on security not functionality or asthetics.

 

[The Hot Rod Grille]

No windows. No problems.

Jim

 

[Cryptic1911]

No windows. No problems.

Jim

yep, plus you can use ALL of your wall space for shelves and things. Windows just always end up in the wrong spot later on when you have a cool idea, but can't put it there

 

[6768rogues]

My 36 by 48 has 8 windows 4 feet wide by 5 feet high. I like to open them on nice days and the natural light is great. If I lived in a high crime area, I would reconsider windows.

 

[c39er]

No crime- do nice windows-light is good as is the ventilation. I had no windows and it was like a big cave even though very well lighted-36 HO 8' lights..
I put windows in- what a difference!!!!

 

[srmofo]

personally in something that small I wouldnt bother with the windows.

They take up precious wall space in an already small area
They are a security issue
They are the big culprit of drafty garages

If you like natural light, if for nothing more than being able to walk through without kicking something, then look at solar tubes or similar products

I was considering solartubes, but talked myself out of them. I kick myself everytime I walk in the gargae. I only have 2 tiny windows up high in my 24x36 on the same side as the man door. Mainly for security purposes. I also talked myself out of a solar powered vent and am planning on installing one next summer. The attic space just gets too damn hot even with 30'+ of ridge vent and soffit vents all the way around.

 

[luvit]

sounds like you're passive on the decision.
i vote a window if it offers a view.
add a window if the view is pleasant especially if it allows you to view your property/house.
another thing is, it may be the only thing to help you realize the time of day or oncoming weather.

 

[Beaumont67]

NO windows here:
- naturally cooler in the summer
- easier to heat in the winter
- more secure
- nobody can snoop at tools & equipment
My 1.5 story garage is 24x30ft. with 9 foot ceiling.
Two garage doors are 20 gauge with foam insulation, measuring 8'x10ft. wide + one entrance door.

 

[TWX]

I definitely understand your plight. I'd probably have a temperature problem with windows here in the desert if I had them. The only place I'd want them would be high up on the North side of the building where they'd be under the overhang and wouldn't admit really any direct sunlight, and even then, I'd only want foot to two foot high windows.

 

[Dale Rogers]

If I ever get to build mine, there will be no windows. I need the eliment off doubt that I am home.

 

[ForceFed70]

I had to make the same decision as you.

I chose to add some 3'x3' windows:

- I have 12' ceilings and I mounted the windows high. With the exterior grade sloping away from the building and the high windows nobody can look into them. Regardless, blinds or frosting the windows is cheap and easy.
- I did not install an exhaust fan so having windows that open was a compromise.
- I have 2 large portable air conditioners that I plan to use to cool my garage. They need windows that open to vent the hot air. Keep this in mind if you ever decide you want to be able to cool your garage.
- I went to a large local window company and searched through their "boneyard" for regected windows. My understanding is that some were ordered in error (wrong size/style), some were installed but the homeowner didn't like them and had them replaced with something else, and some were never paid for so the glass company "repo'd" them. Regardless, I wasn't picky with the size/style so I picked out 3 windows of approximately the size I wanted for the same price as it would have cost to buy 1 regular new window.

I think it's a good idea to go with some windows. Especially if you can do like I did and find some good rejects at a discounted price. There are lots of ways to get around the security aspects, windows make a building "look better", and the natural light and airflow are a big plus. Don't worry about energy efficiency unless you are considering a large amount of glass. Your garage door will already be so inefficient that the windows won't make much of a difference.

 

[bazzateer]

My garage will have no side windows but will have windows (about 8' long) above the workbench which will look across the back garden towards the house. No windows in the doors either.

 

[Aspen]

I live in a high crime area and my garage entrance is through the alley. I have been robbed before and here's my observation/experience.

I agree about not having windows but also agree on having ventilation and light.

My garage came with windows so what I did was limo tint the windows to prevent prying eyes. I also installed bars across them(with security bolts) so potential thieves know upfront that it will be difficult to get in. I've installed roof vents, motion detector lights, and security camera's at a couple corners.

One thing I think a lot of people over look is the flimsy support that a stock service door provides(or doesn't provide). After having been robbed and seeing my service door, I've began noticing that a lot of other service doors simply do not have the proper reinforcement on the deadbolt to prevent an intrusion.

My father in law that has been a locksmith for years set me straight with a very simple but effective 14-16 gauge piece of steel to reinforce the deadbolt area to the rest of the garage framing.

Like my father in law always says, if they really wanted to get in, they will get in somehow. However it is up to you to determine how difficult you want that to be.

 

[srmofo]

I live in a high crime area and my garage entrance is through the alley. I have been robbed before and here's my observation/experience.

I agree about not having windows but also agree on having ventilation and light.

My garage came with windows so what I did was limo tint the windows to prevent prying eyes. I also installed bars across them(with security bolts) so potential thieves know upfront that it will be difficult to get in. I've installed roof vents, motion detector lights, and security camera's at a couple corners.

One thing I think a lot of people over look is the flimsy support that a stock service door provides(or doesn't provide). After having been robbed and seeing my service door, I've began noticing that a lot of other service doors simply do not have the proper reinforcement on the deadbolt to prevent an intrusion.

My father in law that has been a locksmith for years set me straight with a very simple but effective 14-16 gauge piece of steel to reinforce the deadbolt area to the rest of the garage framing.

Like my father in law always says, if they really wanted to get in, they will get in somehow. However it is up to you to determine how difficult you want that to be.

Personally I like bars on the inside, Its a surprise and they wont come prepared to handle them. It also lets you know that someone has tried to break in.

Most garage doors can easily be pryed up with a bar and floor jack.

If you reinforce the man door jamb around the dead bolt, then dont forget to reinforce around the hinges and the door itself in the same spot. Longer screws are a must in the hinges.

When its all said and done though, you are right, if they want in bad enough they are coming in regardless of your security measures

 

[Boyd Who]

I have one window in my 20x22 shop, right above my workbench. I like having a view of our yard while I'm working. I'm not too worried about security in our little town, plus a cheap set of blinds keeps people from looking inside.

 

[oldgoat]

I have a 2 x 3 slider at the opposite end of the garage from the garage door. It is set up high enough that a person would have to be fairly tall to see in plus I have blinds on it anyway. I like having it though for the light, cross ventilation and maybe more important a second way out of the garage in case of a fire. If I lived in a real high crime area I would just add bars on the inside that are on a hinge that you could release and still be able to get out in an emergency, but would be kind of hard to get into. Like some have said, if a person wants in then it isn't all that hard to do in most garages. If I was real worried I'd invest in a security system anyway.

 

[DanD1]

No windows!

It is hard to store things when there is a damned window in the way. I took seven of them out of my garage. Made a hell of a difference room wise. And with a garage that small you will need all the room you can get.

Dan