Benefits of Insulated Garage Doors

If you’re in the market for a new garage door, you may be wondering if insulation is worth the investment. Many Florida homeowners find this comfort upgrade worthwhile because of the many benefits it provides. Explore the types of garage door insulation, the advantages of an insulated garage door, and the factors to consider before installing one.

Types of Garage Door Insulation

When considering an insulated garage door, it’s important to know about the different options available and the R-values they provide. R-value measures thermal resistance, so the higher the number, the better the insulation.

Polystyrene insulation, similar to the material used in foam cups and coolers, is a popular choice for garage doors. This type of insulation is inserted between the door’s layers and offers a decent R-value, typically ranging from R-6.5 to R-10.

Polyurethane is a denser, foam-injected insulation that adheres to the door’s material. It offers superior insulation with higher R-values ranging from R-12 to R-20.4. This type of insulation fills all gaps and adds structural strength to the door.

While polystyrene and polyurethane are the most common types of garage door insulation, fiberglass and cellulose are other less common options available. Consult your garage door company for advice about the right insulation for your needs and budget.

Insulated Garage Door Benefits

Is it worth replacing your current garage door with an insulated version? Consider these benefits to help you decide.

More Consistent Temperature

Insulated garage doors help your garage stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Like the insulation in your attic or walls, garage door insulation slows heat transfer into the space, making it more comfortable year-round. This is particularly beneficial if you use your garage as a workshop, hobby space, or extra room.

In these applications, you may choose to extend the ductwork or install a dedicated HVAC unit. The garage door insulation reduces the heating and cooling load on this system, making it easier to maintain a comfortable environment.

More Efficient Home

If your garage is attached to the house, an insulated garage door can boost your home’s overall energy efficiency by making the garage a closer temperature to the rest of your living space. This is especially true for rooms adjacent to or above the garage, which benefit the most from more consistent temperatures. As a result, you can expect lower energy bills when you invest in an insulated garage door.

Quieter Operation

Insulated garage doors are generally quieter than non-insulated ones. The extra layers of insulation help dampen the sound of the door opening and closing, as well as the noise coming in from outside. This benefit is particularly useful if a bedroom or other living space is near your garage.

More Durable Door

The added layers in an insulated garage door make it stronger and more resistant to dents and impacts, especially in the case of polyurethane. This durability can extend the life of your door and reduce the need for repairs, saving you money in the long run. The extra rigidity also helps the door operate more smoothly and reliably.

Protection for Items or Pets Kept in the Garage

Insulated garage doors provide a more stable environment for anything stored in the garage. This helps protect tools, liquid cleaning supplies, car parts, and other valuables from extreme temperatures. If your pets spend time in the garage, insulation makes the space more comfortable for them year-round.

Increased Home Value

Installing an insulated garage door can boost your home’s resale value. Potential buyers often look for features that enhance energy efficiency and comfort, and an insulated garage door fits the bill. This upgrade makes your property more attractive, potentially increasing buyer interest and allowing you to raise your asking price. The improved curb appeal from a well-maintained, durable, and quiet garage door also makes a good impression on anyone interested in buying your home.

Factors to Consider

While insulated garage doors offer many benefits, you should consider the following factors before making a decision.

Higher Cost

Insulated garage doors cost more than comparable non-insulated ones. The materials and construction techniques required to add insulation increase the overall price. You should feel confident that the long-term energy savings and potential home value increase will offset the initial investment over time.

Potential Ineffectiveness

In certain situations, the benefits of an insulated garage door may be less noticeable than you’d hoped. For instance, the insulation might not provide obvious advantages if your garage door is frequently open or if you live in a mild climate. Additionally, if your garage is already well-insulated or not used often, it may be hard to justify the extra cost.

Installation Complexity

Insulated garage doors can be more challenging to install. The added weight of the insulation requires a more robust garage door opener and hardware. If the installation is not done correctly, it could lead to operational issues or damage to the door system. Homeowners should consider the potential need for professional installation services.

Limited Style Options

Although the market for insulated garage doors has expanded, there may still be fewer style options available compared to non-insulated doors. Homeowners seeking a particular aesthetic might find their choices limited. Consult a garage door company for help finding a solution that balances your desired appearance with the practical benefits of insulation.

Why Choose A1A Overhead Door?

Whether you decide garage door installation is right for you or you want to skip it, A1A Overhead Door can meet your needs. We install a wide range of garage door products from some of today’s top manufacturers, including Amarr, C.H.I., and Clopay. Every installation and service visit is backed by 27 years of experience and a well-established reputation. As a family- and community-oriented business, we pride ourselves on our high level of integrity and trust. Contact us at 904-821-8463 for a garage door installation estimate in Jacksonville, FL.