What Insulation Does Here
Most people think of insulated doors for cold climates. On the Gulf Coast the payoff is heat. An insulated door keeps the sun from baking the garage, which helps rooms above or beside it.
It also helps the things you keep in there: a second fridge, paint, tools and anything that warps in heat.
Benefits Besides Temperature
- Stiffer panels. Foam in the core makes the door harder to dent.
- Quieter. Insulated sections don't drum and rattle like thin steel.
- Less street noise if the garage is near a busy road.
Two Kinds of Foam
Polystyrene panels fit between the steel skins. They're the lower cost choice.
Polyurethane is foamed in place and bonds to both skins. It insulates better and makes a stiffer, quieter door.
R Value Versus U Factor
Doors are often sold by R value, which describes the foam core alone. That number can look great even if the edges, seals and bottom leak.
U factor measures heat moving through the whole door, seals and all. Lower is better. When you compare doors, ask for the whole door figure, not just the core.
Seals Matter Too
An insulated door with worn seals leaks hot air and lets in water and bugs. The bottom seal should meet the floor along its full width, and the side and top seals should touch the door when it's closed.
Pests and lizards slip under gaps easily here. New seals are often part of a new door install.
Color and Sun
Dark doors absorb far more heat than light ones. On a west facing garage, a lighter color helps the insulation do its job.
If you love a dark finish, ask whether the maker approves it for direct sun. Some dark finishes on vinyl trim and thin skins can warp in our heat.
Is It Worth It
If the garage is attached, has living space above, or you spend time in it, yes for most people. For a detached garage used only for storage, a plain door may be fine.
Insulation also adds a little weight, so the springs are matched to the new door. It works with a wind rated door too; see hurricane rated doors.
Want to upgrade an old door instead? Insulation kits plus new rollers and hinges can help a sound door. Read replacement to weigh it, and see the cost guide.
Want a cooler garage? Send the form or call (850) 555-0147.