As a craftsman, you’re spending hours and hours working on different projects in your workshop, which makes it your second home. These long hours can leave a toll on the body if the conditions are not up to date. Hot summers and cold winters are not making it easy, and therefore, we recommend looking for ways to make the stay more comfortable and bearable. Read on, as we’ll discuss some methods to create a more pleasant and cozy working environment.
Soundproofing the walls
Normal human conversations are about 30 dB loud, while motor engines and passing-by motorcycles can reach up to 95 dB of sound. The human ear can withstand even sharp and loud sounds without any serious damage, but any exposure to 70 dB over longer periods of time (this especially applies to mechanics who work on engines) can leave long-lasting damage to the ear drums, which is often irreversible. Now, if you happen to work with loud tools (electrical chainsaws, drills, and other tools), the exposure to high-pitched and loud sounds will do you no good. Therefore, we recommend soundproofing the whole workshop as it will reduce and silence the amount of noise produced, and it will also prevent any complaints from your neighbors.
Soundproofing is especially popular in the music industry (recording studios) as it helps isolate the voice of the singer. You might ask yourself why you should invest in soundproofing when you can wear a pair of headphones. Well, if you happen to work with several colleagues, headphones will simply reduce the quality of work communication. A small investment like this can do wonders for the quality of your work.
Cooling down during hot days
During hot summer days, the heat and moisture can reduce productivity levels, and it is known to lower your blood pressure, causing fatigue and lack of focus. Cooling down can be difficult in open spaces as ACs are often not able to cover larger areas, thereby only adding to your electricity bill rather than reducing the heat. Fans are a perfect alternative solution to the problem, as they can be placed practically anywhere you like and they cool down the air by boosting air circulation and flow. Of course, finding the right fan can take some time, as you’ll have to take into account velocity and sound. The newer generation of fans are low-noise high velocity ones, and manufacturers are working constantly on improving the technology.
Noise can be quite irritating, especially for people who are sensitive to loud sounds, and it can also be distracting while doing fine work. Thankfully, fans such as the Vornado 293 have the needed power and speed settings, weighing just above 10 pounds and producing almost no noise while working constantly. Similar models are available on the market, and after a quick search, you’ll find the right pick.
Rubber floors
Rubber floor padding is mostly used in gyms to absorb the heavyweights falling down and also to prevent any possible injuries. However, the same rubber floor padding can be installed in your workshop, as most craftsmen (and especially mechanics) spend hours on their knees or hands. It also acts as a type of safety net in case some of the heavy tools slip from your hand, and it prevents damage to the floor. Rubber mats are perfect for the garage or any workshop, and they also help your health. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of how standing on solid concrete for hours can affect their posture and feet. For the same reason that running on concrete is not recommended, standing for long periods of time causes soreness in the ankles and knees and tired muscles. Think of all this the next time you plan on renovating the workshop.
Heating
During long winter days, the cold can affect your productivity drastically and slow you down. An AC may be a good solution for your garage space. However, any larger space will require a better alternative. We personally recommend looking for a calorifier as they have proven to produce the most heat. However, they are known to be quite noisy, making distracting sounds, and they also add another zero to your electricity bill.
Maybe radiator heating running on oil or electricity, or even wood and coal, is still the most effective and cost-efficient solution you’ll find. The only expense you’ll have is the initial installation and, after that, regular maintenance. Fuels are easy to acquire and there are many options to choose from. They also keep the heat for hours after you turn the switch. We recommend installing heat isolation into the walls and ceiling to keep the heat within the workshop, thereby reducing fuel consumption.
With these easy tips and upgrades, working in your workshop will be quite a delight, and it will make your stay there more enjoyable.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of Geek Vibes Nation.
Amanda Lancaster is a PR manager who works with 1resumewritingservice. She is also known as a content creator. Amanda has been providing resume writing services since 2014.