Walking into your garage on a summer day can feel like stepping into a sauna—and that’s no exaggeration. Temperatures there can run 10–18°F hotter than outside. If you use the garage for projects, workouts, or storage, that heat isn’t just uncomfortable—it can damage belongings and make the space unusable. The trick? You don’t need a costly air conditioner or mini-split. This garage cooling hack from Dollar Tree combines simplicity and affordability to bring real relief—and fast.
Why Foam Board Works Wonders
Dollar Tree’s ReadiBoard foam boards are made of white polystyrene—a material filled with trapped gas that blocks heat transfer. That makes them surprisingly good insulation, especially when taped inside your garage door panels. You get reflective, lightweight barriers that reduce how much solar heat penetrates your space. It’s not a permanent fix, but it can shave off several degrees. And at around $1 each, it’s a smart, low-risk first step.
Measure and Prep Your Garage Door
Before you buy dozens of foam boards, measure the inside panels of your garage door carefully. Standard two-car doors are roughly 16×7 feet, but every model varies. Divide that total square footage by the size of each board (typically 20×30 in) to determine how many you’ll need. Then cut them neatly so they fit snugly between the door’s joists. Accurate measurements ensure no wasted materials and maximum cooling impact.
Tape It In—Easily and Securely
Next, fix the boards in place using duct tape or weather-resistant tape along each seam. Start at the top-left panel and work methodically across and down. You want the boards to stay flat and gap-free to block heat effectively. The installation takes minutes per board and requires no tools beyond a knife, tape, and a step stool. It’s a renter-friendly, non-permanent solution that keeps every cent of your deposit intact.
Boost the Hack for More Results
This garage cooling hack works best when combined with other strategies. Decluttering helps air circulate better. Add a floor or ceiling fan to distribute any cooler air. Seal cracks around windows and doors with weatherstripping for extra protection. Taking a multi-pronged approach keeps heat out, rather than just trying to counter it.
Know When to Step Up Your Game
Though inexpensive and effective, foam boards aren’t a permanent fix. They’re flammable, so keep them away from heaters or direct sunlight. For long-term use, consider upgrading to reflective insulation rolls or professional kits—often still cheaper per square foot. You can use leftover foam to insulate walls or other storage areas. When heat becomes a major issue, think about investing in insulation, ventilation, or even a mini-split A/C system.
Easy On, Easy Off—And Easy to Undo
One of the best aspects of this trick? It leaves no trace. If you move, sell, or want to host a party, you can peel the boards off, remove tape residue, and restore your garage to its original look. That means no permits, no complex installations, and no regrets. It’s perfect for renters or anyone wanting a temporary cool-down without committing to major renovations.
When DIY Makes Sense—and Saves Money
Expensive HVAC upgrades aren’t always necessary to make a garage livable in summer. This garage cooling hack delivers noticeable results with minimal effort and cost. You’ll avoid furnace-like temps and preserve your things without breaking the bank. It’s a win for comfort and practicality—exactly what savvy DIYers want. So pick up those Dollar Tree foam boards and start cooling your garage today.
Tried a summer hack like this—or have a better one? Share your method in the comments!
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The post Garage Too Hot? Cool It Down Fast with This Simple Dollar Tree Hack appeared first on Clever Dude Personal Finance & Money.
