Insulated vs. Non-Insulated Garage Doors - Which One Is Right For You?

What's the Difference Between Insulated and Non-Insulated Garage Doors?

The difference is in the layers. Insulated doors have foam or other material sandwiched between metal panels. Non-insulated doors are just a single sheet of steel or aluminum. That's it.

But here's what that actually means for you.

When Insulated Doors Make Sense?

If your garage shares a wall with your house, insulation matters. Heat and cold travel through that shared wall. An insulated door acts like a buffer. Your furnace won't work as hard in winter, and your AC won't fight as much in summer.

There's also the noise factor. Insulated doors dampen sound when they open and close. If someone parks in the garage and starts their car to leave early in the morning, the rest of the house won't hear it as much.

And they're sturdier. The extra layers make the door more rigid, so it holds up better to dents from bikes, basketballs, or whatever else may bump into it.

When Non-Insulated Doors Work Fine?

If your garage is detached, you probably don't need insulation. If you are not heating or cooling that space, there's no energy to save. However, if you are also using the detached garage as a workshop that you are heating or cooling, you will want to consider an insulated garage door to help with temperature control.

Non-insulated doors cost less upfront. They're lighter too, which means less strain on the opener. For a basic storage space or workshop you don't spend much time in, they do the job.

It’s no surprise that energy costs are a huge concern for homeowners, as are the many ways to reduce those costs. From sealing windows to adding insulation to attics and more, most people don’t think about their garage door, often the largest single entry into your property. Newly installed insulated garage doors may have a higher upfront price, but the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial investment. Insulated doors offer substantial energy savings, providing up to a 20% reduction in annual energy bills.

There are additional benefits to insulated garage doors if you store things such as paint, cleaning chemicals, camping gear, outdoor equipment and such in your garage. Temperature variations can, over time, wear down the lifespan of batteries and the elasticity of rubberized items like seals and tires, and can also cause issues with stored chemicals, paints, etc.

We believe that in most situations, an insulated garage door is a smart investment but if you are still unsure, here is an easy set of questions to consider: 

• Do you have an attached garage?
• Do you live in an area with extreme temperature variations or consistent extreme temperatures?
• Do you use your garage as a workspace or keep pets in it while you are away?
• Are you planning to sell your home within the next 10 years?

If you answered YES to two or more questions, an insulated garage door is not only a convenient upgrade but a smart choice. Not only do insulated garage doors reduce your energy costs but they also protect investments in other products and improve the overall value of your home!

As with any upgrade, the materials involved matter! When you are ready to get an insulated garage door installed, understanding the options is essential to making the best choice.

Polyurethane and polystyrene are common options, with polyurethane providing superior insulation and durability with a higher R-value. Making sure your choice includes good weather sealing around the door edges is also an important consideration to further maximize the benefits of your investment.

For those on a budget, it may be necessary to save up for a new insulated garage door or look into a low-interest home improvement loan. In the meantime, there may be ways to save some money now. At a glance, there are some do-it-yourself options, such as garage door insulation blankets, garage door insulation kits and DIY weather stripping, but be cautious.

While these options may be more affordable, they often fall short in terms of effectiveness and durability. Incorrect installations can also lead to damage to your existing garage door, door frame, etc. Be sure to prepare your surfaces, making sure they’re clean and dry, and follow all instructions completely.

Despite the higher initial cost, the long-term benefits in terms of energy efficiency, comfort, and home value make insulated doors a worthwhile choice for homeowners seeking quality and durability.