Garage door insulation, when installed correctly, can make your life all the more comfortable. An insulated garage door reduces noise pollution, increases energy efficiency, and brightens what might otherwise be considered a dreary space. Garage door insulation is a relatively easy and affordable DIY project; although safety precautions should be taken. Here are six tips for getting you started.
#1. Types of Insulation Materials
Batt Insulation: Commonly made of fiberglass, batt insulation is more flexible than the other two options listed below, with insulation values between R-3 and R-4 per inch of thickness. Batt insulation is one of the more affordable options.
Foam Board Insulation: Typically made from polystyrene, foam board insulation is more rigid than batt insulation, but provides a much higher insulating value for relatively little thickness. R-values range from 3.3 to 6.5.
Reflective Insulation: Available in either rigid panels or rolls, reflective insulation reflects radiant heat, making it a viable choice for homeowners. R-values range from 3.5 to 6. Reflective insulation is one of the more expensive options.
What is an R-value? An R-value is the resistance of heat flow through a given thickness of material. The higher the R-value, the greater the resistance and in turn, the energy savings. An R-value, however, is just one of four key factors you should consider. Wind, humidity, and temperature are all factors that should also be taken into consideration when selecting an insulation material. For maximum energy savings, it’s also important to consider insulating the entire garage, and not just the door.
#2. Matching Insulation to Your Garage Door
- Steel garage doors can accommodate any type of insulation.
- Wood frame and panel garage doors can accommodate either type of rigid insulation: foam board or reflective insulation. Consider applying two layers.
- Flat garage doors (doors without panels) can accommodate foam board or reflective insulation.
You can purchase any type of insulation at your local home improvement store, for do-it-yourself installation, or contact a garage door repair company for professional installation. If you choose to do it yourself then you’ll need a tape measure, straight edge blade, and utility knife. Shut power off to the opener during installation to avoid someone coming home and opening the door.
#3: Measure
We cannot reinforce the importance of measuring your garage door’s panels before shopping for insulation and again during the installation process enough. Whether you choose boards or rolls, cut the insulation to fit. You can attach insulation to the garage door using liquid nails or fasteners. Fasteners are available in kits, which range anywhere between $50 and $70 dollars, for a 9-foot-wide door.
#4: Apply Weather Stripping
Once you are finished installing the installation, with the door in the raised position (after powering the opener back on, of course), apply high-quality bottom rubber gasket, weather stripping, to seal the space between the bottom of the door and the floor of the garage. This will stop dirt and debris to enter your garage as well as put a stop to air escaping from under the door.