Welding in the Garage (How To Weld Safely & Things To Know)

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Welding in the garage can be done safely by following certain guidelines. Many workshops have a lot of tools and equipment besides welding machines that can start a fire. With the right equipment and precautions, the risks can be minimized.

Dedicating a particular area to welding in the garage can make it safe. Garages can contain many fire hazards, such as oils, chemicals, and easily flammable materials, which should be removed.

This article looks at safety precautions, equipment, and tools required to run welding projects safely. We also look at typical electricity needs for welding machines and how to ventilate the garage from harmful welding gasses.

We also consider insurance and legal issues if you want to start a home welding business.

How To Stay Safe When Welding In Your Garage?

Study And Keep Learning

Know safety procedures and educate yourself on safety guidelines set by national organizations and your workplace. This ensures a safe and productive workplace for everyone.

Review also manufacturer instructions before operating new equipment you are not familiar with. The industry is constantly changing and evolving, and new technology is adopted. So keep yourself up to date.

Protect Yourself From Harmful Gasses and Fumes

Ensure the working area is well-ventilated to protect yourself from exposure to welding fumes. Have at least one of these, preferably more:

Exhaust Fan,
Welding Fume Extractor,
Heavy Duty Fan and
Welding Respirator Mask.

Precaution Against Electrocution

Always inspect the electrode holder and wires for damage before welding. Ensure your gloves and clothes are dry and in good condition. Never touch the metal parts of the electrode holder with bare skin or wet clothing.

Also, keep dry insulation between your body and the ground or metal being welded.

Check the Equipment Before Usage

Inspect all the equipment that is functioning properly and is fully grounded. Look for signs of wear and tear. Inspect the hoses and wires and make sure they are in good condition.

Make it a habit to inspect everything before starting to work. You can never be too safe.

Clean and Clutter-Free Workspace

Keep the working area clean and clutter-free. Keep things organized and everything where it belongs.

Remove any flammable materials and use welding blankets and covers to protect the surrounding areas from sparks and spatter that might cause a fire.

Know Your Environment

If you are in a new area, look closely at the surrounding areas. Know where everything is located. Spend time and know the locations of:

fire alarms,
emergency exits,
first-aid, and
fire extinguishers.

They are vital for your safety.

Wear Proper Personal Protective Equipment

Any exposed skin is vulnerable to the harmful effects of UV, Infrared rays, sparks, spatter, and heat generated by welding. You should always be fully covered when welding. This includes:

Wear Safe Clothing, such as coveralls, pants, jacket, boots, gloves, cap, and neck protector.
Head Protection. Welding helmets and face shields.
Fume protection. Fume extraction systems and respirators or masks.

Enforce Safety Procedures

If you see safety violations, report them immediately and refuse to work in dangerous situations or with unsafe equipment.

Keep yourself and others accountable when it comes to following safety guidelines.

Different Types of Welding Techniques

All welding works are basically the same. The welding machine generates an electric arc, which produces enough heat between the electrode (wire or sticks) and the metals being melted together.

There are many types of welding, but these three are the most common ones.

If you are just starting out, consider learning MIG or Stick welding first. When you feel more confident and your skills grow, move on to TIG welding techniques.

MIG Welding

MIG welding requires more equipment than stick welding but is considered the easiest form of welding to learn. MIG welding requires the following:

MIG machine,
MIG gun,
protective gas, and
Other relevant equipment.

Gas must be purchased separately and stored in refillable cylinders. The cylinders must always be secured to prevent tipping over.

MIG uses wire as a filler, and depending on the machine and your projects, you need different thicknesses of wire. You also need spare welding tips for the MIG gun.

Stick Welding

Stick welding typically has the lowest starting cost. It is also considered one of the most straightforward welding processes to learn, similar to MIG.

In stick welding, you use single rods that combine your electrode, protective gas, and filler. You need a stick welding machine and rods, along with other relevant equipment.

Welding sticks have a limited shelf life that decreases when the package is opened. Plus, you don’t need to purchase or store gas in cylinders.

TIG Welding

TIG welding requires about the same equipment as MIG welding, but it is considered the most difficult form to learn.

TIG welding requires a TIG-capable machine and a TIG torch. It separates the filler material and electrode. Tungsten is used as an electrode inside the torch, and a filler rod is injected into the torch.

This process requires both hands, unlike MIG and stick, which combine the filler and electrode and require only one hand. TIG welding also requires protective gas, the same as MIG.

You need a gas cylinder with other relevant equipment. TIG welding can be used in both ferrous and non-ferrous metals.

How Do I Prepare My Garage Into A Welding Shop?

Preparing the garage for welding takes a few precautions and special equipment. Having a dedicated space for all sorts of hot work that can produce sparks if safest.

Almost all workplaces that handle equipment that can cause a fire have dedicated areas for hot work, which is usually required by law.

Preparing a dedicated area for welding with blankets, mats, and other fireproof equipment is wisest. Garages have all sorts of fire hazards, which should be accounted for and removed from the welding area.

Good ventilation is required with personal protective equipment. Readiness to put out fires is also essential.

Start by cleaning the garage entirely and removing stuff you don’t need. When the garage is empty and free of dust(flammable), a welding area can be constructed. There are cheap starter kits, too, so you don’t need all this equipment when starting out.

However, it is vital to prevent fires, so welding curtains/blankets and mats(welding sparks and spatter will ruin your garage flooring.) A fire extinguisher is a minimum.

You also need to shield yourself with personal protective equipment. Heavy-duty fans are recommended as other means of ventilation, so you need to invest a little.

Welding Area in the Garage

Welding curtains/blankets protect the surrounding areas from sparks and spatter that might cause a fire. (at Amazon)
Welding Mats – Protect the garage flooring from welding sparks and spatter. (at Amazon)
Welding Table – This special table is made for welding. (at Amazon)
Garage Lights – Proper illumination of the workspace is an important safety factor. (at Amazon)
First Aid Kit – In case of accidents. (at Amazon)

Welding Equipment and Tools

Welding Machine – Machines for one type of welding, or you can get a multi-purpose machine for different types of welding.
MIG Welding kit (at Amazon)
TIG Welding kit (at Amazon)
STICK Welding kit (at Amazon)
MULTI-PROCESS Welding Kit: If you plan to purchase a multi-use process machine, some do not include a TIG torch or other accessories. And need to be purchased separately. Always make sure everything is compatible. (at Amazon)
Ground Clamps – Spare clamps for the welding machine (at Amazon)
Welding Chipping Hammer – Removes welding spatter/slag. (at Amazon)
Welding Pliers – These are multi-use pliers for drawing out welding wire and removing or installing tips and nozzles. (at Amazon)
Wire Brush – Removes paint and rust and cleans objects effectively. (at Amazon)
Magnetic Square – For holding and positioning metal. (at Amazon)
Magnetic Tools – For holding and positioning metal. (at Amazon)
Welding Clamps – These are for holding and positioning metal. (at Amazon)
Soapstone – Marking tool for metal that can withstand high temperatures. (at Amazon)
Sheet Metal Gauge – This gauge is used to determine the thickness of metal. (at Amazon)
Angle Grinder – For cutting and filing the metal (at Amazon)

Welding Ventilation in the Garage

Exhaust Fan – Exhaust fans are installed directly on the wall. Providing effective ventilation of gasses. (at Amazon)
Welding Fume Extractor is a portable or permanently installed fume extractor that sucks up harmful gasses. (at Amazon)
Heavy Duty Fans – Fans suitable for a garage environment. (at Amazon)
Welding Respirator Mask – A half mask can be used under the welding helmet. (at Amazon)

Check out our garage cooling article, which covers exhaust and heavy-duty fans, among other coolers.

Personal Protective Equipment for Welding

Welding Helmet – Auto-darkening helmet that shields the face/head and eyes. (at Amazon)
Fireproof Coveralls / Pants / Jackets – Heat, UV, and fire-resistant clothing. (at Amazon)
Welding Gloves – Heat, UV, and fire-resistant clothing. (at Amazon)
Welding Cap – Heat, UV, and fire-resistant clothing. (at Amazon)
Welding Neck Protector – Heat, UV, and fire-resistant clothing. (at Amazon)
Welding Boots – Heat, UV, and fire-resistant clothing. (at Amazon)

Fire Extinguisher / Prevention Equipment

Fire Extinguisher – For putting out fires. Multi-class extinguishers (A, B, C) are best for a garage environment with many hazardous materials. (at Amazon)
Fire Blanket – Fire blankets are suitable secondary extinguishers and can be used to smother fires. (at Amazon)
Smoke Detector – Senses the presence of smoke. (at Amazon)

Safe Welding – Take Care Of Ventilation

Ventilating the garage is very important when welding. Welding produces all sorts of harmful gasses, such as carbon monoxide, argon, ozone, and nitrogen oxide.

Fumes contain substances that can, in the long term, cause diseases. You should always minimize your exposure to such gasses.

Ventilate the welding fumes out of the garage with exhaust fans in the wall, special welding fume extractors, and heavy-duty fans suitable for the garage environment. Using a respirator mask under the welding helmet also provides additional safety.

Check this part of the article for suitable and recommended equipment.

Other Welding Associated Risks

There are also other possible risks besides dangerous fumes when welding.

Working in bad posture.
Lifting heavy items.
Noise exposure.
Electric shock.
Eye damage from the welding arc if unprotected exposure.
Eye damage from metal particles if unprotected exposure.
Skin damage from the welding arc or hot objects if unprotected exposure.

Always wear complete personal protective equipment when welding, cutting, grinding metal, and other materials.

Welding Electricity Needs in the Garage

Before buying a welding kit, check the power available in the garage. Often, you need an electrician to install a dedicated circuit for the welding kit. It is common for 120V circuits to come with a 20A breaker. (older homes have only 15A breakers)

Consider the unit specs and requirements for primary voltage and minimum circuit size required. Look also recommended circuit size to achieve maximum output.

There are some general rules:

115V welding kits require a minimum breaker size of 20A with 30A recommended (for welding at up to 140 Amps)
230V welding kits require a minimum breaker size of 30A with 50A recommended (for welding at up to 180 Amps)
Welding at 200 Amps or more output requires a minimum 50A breaker, and more is strongly recommended.

Amperage and Metal Thickness in Welding

Generally, you need 1 amp of power for every 0.001″ of steel thickness. Stainless steel and welding out-of-position require 10 to 15% less heat input, while aluminum requires about 25% more.

Gauge	Metal Thickness (Inches)	Metal Thickness(mm)	Required Amps (rounded)
0	0.324	8.2mm	325
2	0.276	7.0mm	275
4	0.232	5.9mm	230
6	0.192	4.9mm	195
8	0.160	4.1mm	160
10	0.128	3.2mm	130
12	0.104	2.6mm	105
14	0.080	2.0mm	80
16	0.064	1.6mm	65
18	0.048	1.2mm	50
20	0.036	0.9mm	35
22	0.028	0.7mm	30
24	.024	0.6mm	25
26	0.018	0.45mm	20

Welding does not use much electricity in a month (about 3-12 kWh), but it depends on the welder’s size. So daily welding will not affect your total electricity costs more than a few bucks.

Can I Create a Welding Business From Home?

A welding business can be run at home. Whether you are an experienced welder or just starting out, you only need suitable space and equipment to get going.

A garage is a great place for this sort of work. It can be converted to a full workshop fit for any purpose. You could do this part-time or full-time.

Welding starter kits are cheap, and the internet is full of suitable courses. Many schools teach welding, too. (Professional welders have advanced education and qualifications.)

When you learn the skills, you can do some serious welding jobs, or maybe you just want to make metal art that does not require as much strength from the welding seams.

If you are serious about welding or already an expert, you must invest in quality equipment and tools. (Check this part of the article.) You also need customers.

YouTube channels and websites are an excellent way to get customers or show your art. You could also do all sorts of jobs in your local area. Maybe have portable equipment in your car or fix cars and other metal structures at your workshop.

There will always be a need for professional welders or talented artists. Once people know you or your brand, you will have a decent flow of customers.

Welding Insurance and Legal Issues

Start by getting information on whether it is legal to weld in your residential area, such as in the garage. Then, contact your insurance company for information on whether you need additional insurance or if your insurance has any stipulations or clauses that cover welding.

It is usually legal to weld in the garage as long as it is for personal projects. Detached garages are best for workshops.

If you plan a welding business, you must contact the legal entities in your area responsible for permits and possible zoning issues. You need at least public liability insurance.

How Much Does It Cost to Start Welding?

Welding can be started cheaply with starter kits, including some tools. That cost from $100-$350. Quality welding machines cost from $300 – $1,200. But you need to invest in other things too.

Here’s a couple to get you start off:

Items	Cost
Welding curtains/blankets and mats.	From $50 – $250
A fire extinguisher.	From $20 – $40
Personal protective equipment.	From $150 – $300
Heavy-duty fans for ventilation.	From $70 – $200

Welding FAQ

How Long Does It Take To Become a Welder?

A high school diploma is often required, but not always. Certification program lengths vary by country. But in most US states, you can start after 7-18 months of school.

What Shielding Gas Is Used for MIG Welding?

The most common shielding gas is a mixture of 75% argon and 25% Co2. Other mixture ratios are also used. Only Co2 can be used, and sometimes helium.

What Metals Cannot Be Welded Together?

Aluminum and copper
Aluminum and carbon steel
Aluminum and stainless steel
Titanium and steel

What Are the Essentials in Welding?

Correct current
Correct arc length and voltage
Correct travel speed
Correct electrode size
Correct electrode angle

What Is Voltage in Welding?

Welding voltage controls the arc length. Which is the distance between the molten weld pool and the wire/stick filler metal at the point of melting within the arc. As the voltage increases, the weld bead will flatten out more and have an increasing width-to-depth ratio.

What Is ARC Time?

ARC time measures the amount of time a welder actually spends welding.

How Long Does a Fire Watch Last?

Firewatch is required after any hot work. You should remain in the area for a minimum of 30-60 minutes and monitor for smoldering fires, especially if there are any flammable materials nearby.

What Are the Symptoms of an Arc Eye?

Staring the welding arc without eye protection can cause injury to the surface of the mucous membrane of the front of the eye. The symptoms may not be felt until several hours after exposure.

The symptoms are:

Pain – ranging from mild to severe
Bloodshot eyes – Tearing and reddening of the membrane around the eye.
Sand in the eye sensation
Abnormal sensitivity to light
Photophobia – Inability to look at light sources

What Is Stickout in Welding?

Stickout or CTWD (contact tip to work distance) is the distance the wire must travel between the workpiece and the edge of the contact tip. A long stick-out increases amperage, and a shorter stick-out reduces amperage.

Can You Weld if the Ground Is Wet?

Do not weld if the ground is wet. This can be very dangerous, and you risk electrocution and death. Always wear dry personal protective equipment.