Design Your Door
Where To BuyInsulated vs. Non-Insulated Garage Doors
An important consideration when choosing a new garage door for your home is insulation. Insulation will increase the strength, durability and energy efficiency of the door compared to a non-insulated model. Clopay offers both types of garage doors in many stylish options. The best choice for your home or building depends on several factors.
What Is the Difference Between Insulated and Uninsulated Garage Doors?
Typically, an insulated garage door is constructed of multiple layers of steel or wood with insulation between the sections that slows heat transfer between the interior and exterior. Think of it as a buffer zone that can help maintain the temperature in the garage so it’s more comfortable year-round.
The difference can be substantial—like 10 to 20 degrees warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer than outside temperatures. Insulation comes in a variety of material types and thicknesses, and is measured in R-values. The higher the R-value the better the thermal protection.
A non-insulated garage door is a single sheet of steel panels. While it provides a barrier of protection from the elements, it is not durable as a two- or three-layer insulated door.
Benefits of an Insulated Garage Door
Energy-efficiency: Garage door insulation offers a number of benefits especially when the garage is attached to the house. When the garage door is open, outside air flows inside and eventually affects the temperature in adjacent rooms, causing air conditioners and furnaces to work overtime. An insulated door can help improve energy efficiency and cut down on utility bills.
Some homeowners believe that if they don’t live in a cold climate, garage door insulation isn’t important. Insulation keeps the garage a more consistent temperature year-round – in cold or warm climates. Insulation is important if you use the garage to store equipment such as water heaters, appliances or hobby gear that are not designed to operate in extreme temperatures, or if you use the garage as a workshop, extra workout space or play area.
Quiet operation: Most homeowners who purchase an energy efficient garage door do so for the thermal insulation, but they also appreciate the noise reduction that comes with it.
If you have bedrooms above the garage, the layer of insulation will make a big difference to minimize vibrations when the door opens and closes. Adding insulation between the outside surface and interior skin of the door makes it stronger and sturdier, which decreases the sound when it moves. Denser types of insulation, like polyurethane foam, is the best choice if you want a garage door that operates more quietly.
Durability: A layer of insulation is usually 1-3/8” to two inches thick and provides a good base for steel or wood panels. Sandwiching it between the sections greatly improves the durability and long-term appearance of a steel door in particular because multi-layered doors are thicker and less likely to dent than un-insulated doors.
Why Choose a Non-Insulated Door?
As we mentioned before, a non-insulated steel or wooden garage door will offer a layer of protection between your car, equipment or tools from moisture, bugs and debris, especially if the door has a good weather seal. If your garage door is detached from your house or you are securing an outbuilding and budget is a primary consideration in your purchase, a door without insulation may be your best option for savings.
Why Choose a Non-Insulated Door?
As we mentioned before, a non-insulated steel or wooden garage door will offer a layer of protection between your car, equipment or tools from moisture, bugs and debris, especially if the door has a good weather seal. If your garage door is detached from your house or you are securing an outbuilding and budget is a primary consideration in your purchase, a door without insulation may be your best option for savings.
Customizing an Insulated Garage Door
Clopay offers insulated garage doors in nearly every model so it’s easy to customize your design and choose the insulation type that best fits your home and budget.
There are two types of garage door insulation: polystyrene and polyurethane.
Polystyrene comes in sheets that are adhered to the back of the steel panel. You can choose from various thicknesses with R-values ranging from 5.9 to 12.9.
Polyurethane insulation is a liquid foam injected between two steel skins that expands to fill the space completely. It hardens, resulting in a rigid, durable garage door that is going to resist dents and dings better than a non-insulated door. The highest polyurethane insulation R-value is 20.4.
If you want to enhance the curb appeal of your garage door and bring natural light into the space, consider adding insulated glass windows.
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
The choice between insulated and non-insulated garage doors depends on various factors, including your climate, usage of the garage, and budget considerations. Insulated garage doors offer many benefits, including greater energy efficiency, temperature regulation, noise reduction, and enhanced durability. They are particularly advantageous for attached garages and garages used for activities beyond vehicle storage. On the other hand, non-insulated doors provide basic protection from the elements and may be a suitable option for detached garages or outbuildings where budget is a primary concern.
Investing in a quality garage door that meets your specific needs and preferences is essential for enhancing the functionality, comfort, and curb appeal of your home.
If you'd like help determining which residential garage door is right for your home, browse through our buying guide or reach out to your local dealer.
