What type of material is recommended for openings between a garage and living space?

For openings between a garage and living space, the building code generally recommends that these openings should be either entirely prohibited or carefully controlled to ensure safety. The primary concern is to prevent the migration of hazardous substances such as carbon monoxide and other harmful gases from the garage into the living space.

A residential garage typically houses vehicles and may contain flammable materials that can pose risks to the occupants if not properly contained. Therefore, the building regulations call for effective barriers, such as solid walls or fire-rated doors, to safeguard living areas from these hazards.

The other types of materials mentioned—wood frame, metal framing, and glass sliding doors—would not provide the necessary barrier against fire and harmful gases. Wood and metal framings do not inherently possess the required fire-resistance ratings unless specified, while glass sliding doors would be entirely inadequate for containing the hazardous conditions that might arise in a garage setting. Hence, it is crucial to adhere to the guidelines that prioritize safety by prohibiting openings or implementing stringent restrictions between the two areas.