Isolating Garage From Living Space

Select sealants that:

are compatible with their intended surfaces,

allow for differential expansion and contraction between dissimilar materials,

meet the requirements of the applicable fire safety code (e.g. thermal or ignition barriers), and

for use inside the pressure boundary select low volatile organic compound (VOC) sealants that meet independent testing and verification protocols

Select:

pest-resistant materials that adequately support applied load and are permanent air barriers,

materials that meet the requirements of the applicable fire safety code (e.g. thermal or ignition barriers), and

low volatile organic compound (VOC) materials for use inside the pressure boundary that meet independent testing and verification protocols

Remove any material from the sealing area that will prevent full adhesion of the selected sealant

Install steel wool or other pest-proof material as infill in gaps greater than 1/4" before sealing

Apply a continuous seal at all seams, cracks, joints, penetrations, and connections between garage and living space while applying sufficient pressure to push sealant into any gaps or cracks and contact any backing or infill material required

Seal all accessible ductwork joints and connections with UL 181B or 181B-M welds, gaskets, adhesive mastics, or mastic-plus- embedded-fabric systems

Where the same duct system serves any other living space, all supply and return openings in the garage (including intentional openings designed to heat or cool the garage space) must be disconnected, capped with sheet metal using mechanical fasteners, and completely sealed

Install weather stripping, door sweep, and/or threshold if needed so that door is significantly airtight

If door is replaced, door must meet fire separation requirements

Replace, point, and glaze broken glass panes in doors or windows where needed

Where glazing is permitted by code, verify that replacement glass meets the intended fire resistance of the assembly penetrated and is safety glazing

Glazing located in walls connecting garages to conditioned spaces with fire-resistance ratings may be prohibited; confirm that existing glazing application is consistent with all applicable building codes

Install only noncombustible materials and sealants with an ASTM E136 listing in contact with any device producing 200 degrees F or more (chimneys, vents, flues, etc.)