January 1, 2025 6 min read Sarah Williams
When shopping for a new garage door, you'll face a choice between insulated and non-insulated options. While insulated doors cost more upfront, they offer significant long-term benefits that can make them the smarter investment.
Garage door insulation typically uses one of two materials:
Polystyrene - Rigid foam panels inserted into door sections, R-value typically 6-9, More affordable option, Good for moderate climates
Polyurethane - Foam injected into door sections, R-value typically 12-18, Superior insulation and strength, Better for extreme climates
Energy Savings An insulated garage door can reduce energy loss through the garage by up to 71%. For a typical Massachusetts home: - Annual energy savings: $100-300, Over 20-year door life: $2,000-6,000
Increased Home Value A new garage door offers one of the best ROIs of any home improvement: - National average ROI: 94% - Curb appeal improvement: Immeasurable, Faster home sale potential
Cost Comparison Example pricing for a standard two-car door: - Non-insulated steel: $800-1,200, Polystyrene insulated: $1,000-1,500, Polyurethane insulated: $1,200-2,000
1. Durability Insulated doors are more resistant to: - Dents from everyday use, Warping in extreme temperatures, Wind damage
2. Noise Reduction Insulation dampens: - Street noise entering your home, Door operation noise, Vibrations and rattling
3. Year-Round Comfort Even if you don't heat your garage, insulation: - Protects vehicles from extreme temperatures, Keeps attached garages more comfortable, Reduces strain on home HVAC system
Attached Garages Heat loss through an attached garage directly affects home heating costs.
Finished or Heated Garages If you use your garage as a workspace, insulation is essential.
Extreme Climates New England winters make insulation particularly valuable.
Rooms Above the Garage Insulating the garage door helps keep upper rooms comfortable.
Consider insulation a must-have if you have: - An attached garage, Living space above the garage, A workshop in the garage, Concerns about street noise
Non-insulated may suffice if you have: - A detached garage used only for storage, A mild climate, A very tight budget
Our team can help you calculate the potential savings for your specific situation and choose the right level of insulation for your needs. Contact us for a free consultation about new door installation.
Ready to upgrade? Request a free quote from Andover Garage Doors today.