3 Things You Need to Know About Insulating Your Garage Door

When it comes to your home's insulation, most people have a good grasp on what kind of materials are used and their respective R-values. But when it comes to the insulation in your garage door, chances are you're clueless. And honestly, you probably don't think much about it. However, you really should be paying closer attention to your garage door's insulation and its R-value.

Garage door insulation serves several important functions, offering many of the same advantages as your home's regular insulation, along with some unique benefits. First off, R-value measures how effectively insulation resists the transfer of heat from one side to the other. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation performs.

Here are three key reasons why you should take notice of your garage door's insulation and its R-value:

1. It Can Save You Money

Your home's insulation keeps heat inside during the winter and outside during the summer. While your garage may not be heated or air-conditioned, the heated or cooled air from your living spaces often seeps into your garage. Without proper insulation in your garage door, this precious conditioned air escapes much faster, wasting energy and driving up your utility bills. An insulated garage door helps maintain consistent temperatures, ensuring that your hard-earned money stays where it belongs—inside your home.

2. It Protects Your Valuables

Many items stored in garages, such as tools or vehicles, are vulnerable to extreme temperatures. Fluctuating temperatures, especially during transitional seasons like spring and fall, can lead to condensation forming on these items. This moisture can cause rust on metal components or promote mold growth, damaging everything from your lawnmower to your stored holiday decorations. Proper insulation helps regulate temperature swings, keeping your belongings safe and prolonging their lifespan.

3. Your Current R-Value Might Be Misleading

Two common types of garage door insulation include polystyrene foam and polyurethane foam. Polystyrene is typically sold in sheets and, while it fits well within the door panels, it cannot fill every crevice perfectly, leaving some areas potentially exposed to outdoor air. On the other hand, polyurethane foam is sprayed directly onto the door, expanding to seal all gaps thoroughly. Regardless of the type of insulation you choose, if the joints between the door panels and the edges of the door aren’t properly sealed, air will still find its way through. As a result, the actual effective R-value of your door might be lower than advertised.

Other benefits of an insulated garage door include quieter operation, easier vehicle starts in colder weather, and reduced wear and tear on heating and cooling systems. So the next time you glance at your garage door—or consider upgrading to a new one—make sure it boasts high-quality insulation and reliable seals.