Replies

1. 
   JohnWW | Dec 05, 2006 08:03pm | #1

   I've been there and done that, in several shops I had in Vermont, and to be honest there isn't a really good solution to your problem.

   Because you have no insulation, you will need a massive amount of heat on the coldest days to maintain the temperature.  Unvented kerosene and propane heaters will work, they are cheap and effecient, but I found the fumes and large amounts of moisture they produce as a by product of combustion were annoying, probably unhealthy, and the moisture would condense on any colder surfaces like windows and cast iron machine surfaces.  These types of heaters will also react with finishing fumes to create a nasty smog in the shop.

   Vented heaters are a better choice for heating a shop, but they cost more and are less efficient, since some of the heat is lost through the heater's exhaust.  A direct vent through the wall propane heater is a good choice in this category but they cost considerably more than unvented models and even the larger ones might not be enough to heat a space the size of your shop.

   You should also be aware that many glues and finishes won't set up and harden properly at low temperatures, you will need to maintain a temperature in the mid 60's to get them to perform properly.

   John White

1. 
   quonset | Dec 06, 2006 01:50am | #2

   Not the news I wanted, but thanks for clearing this up for me.

1. 
   pdxwoodsman | Dec 06, 2006 07:33am | #3

   I recently have been using the oil filled radiators for heat.  My shop has insulated walls though the roof and the steel roll up door are not.

   I've found that the heat is adequate for those times requiring slightly warmer inside temps.

   I'd suggest 2 units (the 1500W type) Home depot (uuugh) sells a Kenwood model for about $60.00.

   You can also create some insulation by making a tent over your glue and finishing area that will at least delay the rise of heat.

   best of luck..

   Mike D.  Portland OR

1. 
   quonset | Dec 06, 2006 03:19pm | #4

   Thanks for the advice. I'm thinking that several of the type of units you suggest will probably be my best bet. They're not that strong, but they're cheap enough that I can spread them around in different spots to make the heat somewhat even.