Will drywall crack in an unheated garage?

Author: Deon Marks  |  Last update: Wednesday, July 1, 2026

When it's cold outside, the drywall contracts, and when it's warm outside, the drywall expands. This can cause the drywall to crack along the seams. Another reason is because of the moisture in the air. When the air is moist, it can make the drywall swell and cause it to crack.

Does drywall crack in cold weather?

The moisture in the air condenses on your drywall, causing it to crack. One of the most common reasons for this happening is bad and cold weather.

Do I need a vapor barrier in an unheated garage?

The majority seem to agree that insulated, unheated garages, should be allowed to breathe. If the garage is heated, you will need a vapor barrier, otherwise you will get frost and mold.

Why does drywall crack in a garage?

However, it also could simply show that significant temperature and humidity variations in the garage — a room that likely doesn't have temperature controls like the rest of your home does — are causing the framing and the drywall to expand and contract, resulting in the cracks.

What kind of drywall for unheated garage?

Use Type X fire-resistant drywall for garages, as well as stairwells and areas near furnaces. While not totally impervious to fire, Type X drywall is designed to provide enhanced resistance to fire compared to basic fire-resistant drywall. Type X drywall tends to be thicker than other types.

Why is my garage sheetrock cracking?

Will drywall crack in unheated garage?

When it's cold outside, the drywall contracts, and when it's warm outside, the drywall expands. This can cause the drywall to crack along the seams. Another reason is because of the moisture in the air. When the air is moist, it can make the drywall swell and cause it to crack.

Can you drywall a garage without insulation?

No 'need' to insulate it, the drywall should be fine over large temperature swings. If it's a detatched garage that you'll never heat, then don't bother. If it's an attached garage, then insulate as it's cheap and you'll benefit for decades.

Is it a good idea to drywall garage?

Installing drywall in the garage, and insulation, will help make the garage energy efficient and help it maintain a comfortable temperature.

How do you keep drywall from cracking?

Install drywall sheets properly is very important to prevent crack! Avoid to have joints above windows and doors. Avoid joints line up. Install additional backings.

Are cracks in garage wall normal?

The cracks are not normally serious and are very unlikely to affect the stability of the building. What causes cracking? There are a number of reasons why cracking can occur, but it's most likely to be because of drying shrinkage, thermal or moisture changes in building materials, or ground settlement.

Should an unheated garage be insulated?

If you're simply storing your car in the garage, which is the intended purpose, you don't need insulation. However, if you plan to use your garage like an extension of your home, as many homeowners do, adding insulation can definitely be a worthwhile upgrade.

Should I put plastic over insulation before drywall?

Should I Put Vapor Barrier Plastic Over Insulation Before Drywall? Yes, covering your insulation with a vapor barrier plastic before installing drywall is crucial. It prevents moisture buildup that can lead to mold, rot, and even structural damage.

How do I keep moisture out of my unheated garage?

Five Ways to Reduce Condensation in A Garage
  1. 1 - Use climate control. Fundamentally, condensation happens when there's a lot of moisture in the air, and then that air becomes cool enough to lose that moisture. ...
  2. 2 - Use a dehumidifier. ...
  3. 3 - Install vapor barriers. ...
  4. 4 - Don't store wet vehicles in the garage.

How cold is too cold for drywall?

The big number to remember here is 55 degrees Fahrenheit. As in, make sure the area you're working in is heated to a minimum of 55 degrees — with no temperature fluctuations greater than 15 degrees — throughout the entire drywalling process, from hanging to taping to finishing.

When should I worry about drywall cracks?

If you are noticing cracks over a one-quarter inch, these should be addressed immediately as they could indicate a larger structural issue that may require professional assistance.

Can cold weather cause cracks?

Extreme cold air reduces the moisture content in the building materials, causing them to shrink, he says. In addition to that, temperature differences between the cold outside and a home's inside warmth — heat causes materials to expand — also contribute to the contracting.

Can you just paint over drywall cracks?

Repairing minor cracks, screw holes and other drywall imperfections before painting is vital to the process. Here's what you need to know to patch drywall and create smooth wall and ceiling surfaces that are ready for a fresh coat of paint. Painting over small holes and cracks can often make them more noticeable.

Why is my drywall cracking everywhere?

Drywall cracks form primarily due to foundation settlement, foundation heave, fluctuations in temperature, humidity, and seismic activity – all exacting undue pressure and stress on the drywall's organic materials.

Can drywall be used in an unheated garage?

Yes. The biggest thing to worry about is moisture, not heat. If there are large swings in temperature, moisture could form inside your walls and form mold or rot.

Should drywall touch the floor in garage?

Always leave a 1/2-inch gap at the floor.

Do you need vapor barrier when drywalling a garage?

Step 3: Follow with a vapor barrier

In the garage, like other spaces in the home, condensation results from moisture in the air. Excess condensation and humidity levels in your garage can damage your garage's foundation and cause tools, vehicles, and cabinets to rust faster.

Do I need a permit to drywall my garage?

You'll likely need a permit since this project may require soil grading to avoid drainage issues. Repairing your floor may be more cost-efficient than replacing it if grading is necessary. No permit may be required to hang drywall on exposed wooden wall studs in your garage.

What type of drywall is best for garages?

Fire-resistant drywall is made with glass fibers in an extra-thick design. This makes them ideal for use in utility rooms, garages and areas near a furnace or wood stove.

Will insulating an unheated garage cause mildew?

Insulating an unheated garage alone may not necessarily cause mildew, but the risk of mildew increases if there isn't proper ventilation. Insulation can trap moisture in the garage, especially in humid climates, creating a perfect environment for mildew growth.

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