Insulated Garage Doors: How Much Can You Really Save on Energy Bills?

2023-12-20 6 min read

With Palmdale's hot summers and chilly winters, energy efficiency is a top concern for homeowners. An insulated garage door can make a significant difference in both comfort and energy costs, but what are the real savings?

Understanding Garage Door Insulation

Garage door insulation is measured by R-value, which indicates resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation:

• R-0 to R-6: Minimal insulation (single-layer steel)
• R-6 to R-9: Moderate insulation (polystyrene core)
• R-12 to R-18: Good insulation (polyurethane core)
• R-18+: Superior insulation (thick polyurethane)

Types of Insulation

Two main types of insulation are used in garage doors:

Polystyrene

Polystyrene panels are inserted into the door sections. It's less expensive but provides lower R-values and doesn't add structural strength to the door.

Polyurethane

Polyurethane foam is injected into the door sections and expands to fill all spaces. It provides higher R-values, adds structural rigidity, and creates a better seal against air infiltration.

Real Energy Savings

The actual savings depend on several factors:

• Whether your garage is attached to your home
• If you have living space above the garage
• How well-insulated the rest of your garage is
• Whether you heat or cool the garage
• Your current door's insulation level

For attached garages in Palmdale's climate, homeowners typically see 10-15% reduction in heating and cooling costs after upgrading to a well-insulated door. For homes with bedrooms above the garage, savings can be even higher.

Beyond Energy Savings

Insulated doors offer benefits beyond lower utility bills:

• Comfort: More consistent temperatures in the garage
• Noise Reduction: Quieter operation and less outside noise
• Durability: Stronger, more dent-resistant panels
• Protection: Better protection for stored items
• Home Value: Attractive feature for future buyers

Best Choices for Palmdale

Given our extreme temperature swings, we typically recommend doors with R-12 or higher for attached garages. For detached garages or those used as workshops, R-16 or higher provides excellent climate control.

Don't forget to seal gaps around the door frame and weatherstrip the bottom for maximum efficiency.

Get a Free Assessment

Not sure what level of insulation you need? Contact us for a free assessment. We'll evaluate your garage, discuss your usage, and recommend the most cost-effective solution for your situation.

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