Insulated or Non-Insulated: Which Should You Choose?
When it comes to garage door upgrades, one of the most significant decisions homeowners face is whether to invest in an insulated door or stick with a non-insulated option. This choice has become increasingly important as energy costs rise and homeowners look for ways to improve their property’s efficiency.
Your decision will impact your comfort and also your energy bills and the longevity of your garage door. Before making this investment, it’s important to understand the implications of both options and how they align with your specific needs.
The Benefits of Insulated Garage Doors
Garage door insulation is measured by its R-value, which indicates the material’s resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better it’s insulation properties. Modern garage doors typically use either polystyrene or polyurethane foam insulation.
Polystyrene comes in rigid panels and provides good insulation at a lower cost, while polyurethane is sprayed into the door during manufacturing, expanding to fill every space and offering superior insulation properties. The choice between these materials often depends on your climate and specific needs.
Insulated garage doors offer numerous advantages that extend beyond basic temperature control. They act as an effective barrier against outside temperatures, helping maintain a more consistent climate in your garage and adjacent living spaces. This regulation can lead to significant energy savings, particularly in homes with attached garages, by preventing heat loss.
Additionally, insulated doors provide superior noise reduction, blocking out street sounds and creating a quieter environment, which is ideal if you’re using your garage for purposes other than storing your car such as for a home office or gym. The insulation material also adds structural strength to the door, making it more durable and resistant to dents.
When to Choose Non-Insulated Doors
Non-insulated garage doors remain a practical choice in certain situations. They’re typically more affordable upfront and can be perfectly suitable for detached garages used primarily for parking vehicles or basic storage. Homeowners in moderate climates where temperature extremes are rare might also find that a non-insulated door meets their needs adequately.
These doors are also lighter, which can reduce wear on operating mechanisms and potentially lower maintenance costs. For garages that are rarely used or those without climate-sensitive contents, the additional investment in insulation might not provide sufficient returns to justify the cost.
Best Garage Door Styles for Insulation
Steel is particularly well-suited to insulation, offering excellent durability and the ability to accommodate various insulation types. Multi-layer steel doors with insulation sandwiched between panels provide superior performance. Modern composite materials like GRP also offer an excellent balance of insulation properties and durability, often incorporating insulation during the manufacturing process.
Can I Retrofit an Existing Garage Door?
Adding insulation to an existing garage door is possible and can be a cost-effective alternative to full replacement. However, not all doors are suitable candidates for retrofitting. Single-layer steel doors typically accept insulation kits well, while wood doors may require professional modification. DIY insulation kits are available at most home improvement stores and include panels that can be cut to size and secured to the door. But before proceeding with retrofitting, assess your door’s condition and whether the potential energy savings justify the investment.
What’s the Difference in Cost?
The cost difference between insulated and non-insulated garage doors can be significant, with insulated options commanding a premium of anywhere from 20 to 40% more than their non-insulated counterparts.
However, this initial investment tends to pay for itself through reduced energy costs, particularly in regions with extreme temperatures or for homes with attached garages. Additionally, insulated doors typically last longer and require fewer repairs, contributing to their overall value proposition. When calculating return on investment, consider both direct energy savings and indirect benefits like increased comfort and reduced wear on heating systems.
The decision between an insulated and non-insulated garage door depends on your specific circumstances, climate, and intended use of the space. While insulated doors offer superior energy efficiency, noise reduction, and durability, they represent a higher initial investment that might not be necessary for every situation. Whether you opt for a new insulated door or choose to retrofit an existing one, proper installation and maintenance will ensure optimal performance and its longevity.
For further advice on the best garage door for your home or to book a home survey, please don’t hesitate to contact the team at Wessex Garage Doors today.
