How to Insulate Your Garage Doors

As the biggest, and most frequently used entrance into your home, your garage doors let in the most cold and heat into the house. With living space above or beside the modern garage it is easy to see why insulating your garage doors is a good idea. Not only will insulation bring down your electricity bill but it will also prevent dust and dirt from gaining access on windy days and decrease noise to and from the home by 20%.

Although there are multiple products and methods to insulate your garage doors, we would like to highlight the most popular. But first off let’s look at some of the main things to consider before you make your choice.

Before insulating your garage doors

Weight of insulation: As insulation will add extra weight to your door it is best to choose a light option so that minimal extra strain is placed on the springs, hinges and garage door motor. It is also a good idea to get an expert out to see whether your door will require extra support.

R-value of insulation: Insulation effectiveness is measured in R-values. The higher the R-value the better the insulation.

Be mindful of space next to springs/hinges etc.: Insulating your garage doors is a basic and quick job. However, if you don’t measure properly the job could take twice as long. Take extra care when measuring areas so that you don’t end up insulating spaces too close to a spring or hinge.

Types of garage door insulation

1. Foam boards: Typically polystyrene foam boards that vary in R-value depending on the type. The three most common types are:

Extruded Polystyrene Foam (XPS) – R-4 to R-5.

Polyiso Foam Boards (foil facing) – R-7 to R-8.

Expanded Polystyrene Foam – R-3 to R-4.

2. Reflective aluminium foil: Typically several sheets of foil and bubble wrap that does not have an R-value because it is a radiant barrier. A radiant barrier reflects heat and cold away from the space.

3. Kits: Some companies sell garage door insulation/ weather-proofing kits that contain everything you may need for an R-10 plus insulation plus step-by-step instructions.

Alternatively, you can always hire a professional to do the job for you.

How to insulate your garage doors

The method and product will differ according to the type of garage doors you have. This method is for wooden garage doors with panels.

Step 1: Measure the inside of your square panels.

Step 2: Cut out squares of foam board according to measurements.

Step 3: Apply blobs of adhesive, such as No More Nails, to the inside of the wooden panel and place foam board inside. Repeat until all boards are in place.

You can apply the same steps as above to cover the whole of the door with larger pieces of foam board. This will provide enhanced insulation. Make special cut outs for hinges, springs etc.

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