Are you tired of a chilly garage when you head out to work in the morning? Do parts of your home feel drafty, even when the heater is running? Would you like to lower your energy bills while improving the comfort and value of your home? Properly insulated garage doors can help you do all that (and more!). In this blog, we’ll look at how garage door insulation works, what’s involved when installing it yourself or hiring a professional, and – ultimately – whether it’s right for you!

Insulated vs. non-insulated garage door

Your garage door is a huge barrier between the inside of your home and the outside elements. A non-insulated garage door has no additional material added to create a barrier against heat and cold. It’s like leaving a window open all the time.

This can make it difficult to keep your garage at a comfortable temperature and make it harder to keep the temperature inside your home consistent. On the other hand, an insulated garage door has material added between the door panels to create that additional barrier.

Types of garage door insulation

What exactly is garage door insulation and how does it work? Just like inside the walls of your home, insulation is a material placed between the garage door panels or on the inside to reduce heat or cold transfer. There are several different types of insulation available, each with its own unique properties and benefits:

Fiberglass batt

• Very common
• Affordable
• Easy to work with

Foam board

• Lightweight
• Cost-effective
• Damages easily from regular garage use

Reflective barrier

• Lightweight
• Easy to install
• Highly energy efficient
• Ideal for hot climates

Polystyrene insulation

• Pre-cut sheets
• Range of thicknesses for different climates
• Relatively affordable for its R-value (a measure of how well it resists heat transfer)

Polyurethane insulation

• Great for irregular shapes and tight spaces
• Uses spray-in application
• Expensive

Benefits of insulated garage doors

We already mentioned improved comfort and reduced energy bills, but the benefits of adding an insulated garage door to your home go beyond that:

• Less noise
• Lower condensation
• More security
• Protection for stored items from extreme temperatures
• Higher home value

Is insulating your garage door right for you?

Investing in an insulated garage door or adding insulation to your existing garage door might be smart. It all depends on your unique family’s needs and goals. Here are a few things to consider:

• Are you hoping to improve the energy efficiency of your home? Insulated garage doors can help keep your garage and home at a more consistent temperature, reducing your monthly bills.
• Do you use your garage as a workspace or living space? If so, insulation can make it more comfortable to be in your garage year-round.
• Are you planning on selling your home soon? Insulated garage doors can be a fantastic selling point for buyers looking for energy-efficient homes.

How to insulate a garage door

If you’re a skilled DIYer, you can attempt to install insulation yourself. The easiest and most inexpensive option is fiberglass batt insulation. You’ll need to measure your garage door, cut the insulation to size, and then secure it in place. Your local home improvement store likely sells garage door insulation kits that include everything you need.

If you are entertaining the thought of using more intricate insulation material, like polyurethane spray foam, your best option is to call an expert. Applying this type of insulation correctly requires knowledge and skill when blending chemical solutions. 

Incorrect proportions or application can result in improper adhesion or hardening (meaning wasted time and money lost!).

Would you rather invest in a new door that has insulation built-in? 

Insulated garage doors come in various styles and materials so that you can choose the right look for your home. Not only does it save you time and hassle, but these doors are also tested for their insulation R-value, so you know you’re getting the most out of your investment. Plus, it could give the front of your home a whole new look!

Garage door insulation services

At the end of the day, choosing to insulate your garage door is an investment in both your comfort and wallet. Homeowners should consider all their options before deciding which insulated garage door is right for them. 

If you need help deciding, or you don’t feel comfortable installing insulation, call the experts at Lee Company. Our experienced garage door technicians can guide you through the process!