What’s Best for Your Home and Climate?
Ever noticed how your garage feels like an oven in summer and a freezer in winter?
That temperature swing often comes down to one simple factor: a non-insulated garage door. Leaving your garage door unprotected isn’t necessarily a bad thing. You just need to know if it’s the right choice for you.
Choosing between non-insulated and insulated garage doors can affect your energy bills, noise levels, and even home value.
Insulated vs. Non-Insulated Garage Doors
A non-insulated garage door is usually made of a single layer of steel. It’s the most affordable option and is a great choice for detached garages or mild climates.
An insulated garage door, on the other hand, has multiple layers; usually steel with a core of polyurethane or polystyrene foam. That added layer traps heat or cold, regulates temperature, and can make a big difference in both comfort and performance.
Why Homeowners Love Insulated Garage Doors
There are plenty of insulated garage door benefits, especially if your garage connects directly to your home.
1. Improved Energy Efficiency
An insulated door becomes an additional barrier between outdoor temperatures and your living space. If your garage shares walls with your kitchen or bedrooms, insulation helps reduce heat transfer. That means your HVAC system (and your wallet) can take a break, giving you real garage door energy savings over time.
2. Quieter Operation
Insulated doors are heavier and sturdier, so they vibrate less. You’ll notice a quieter open and close every time.
3. Enhanced Durability
Because they’re built with multiple layers, insulated doors are more resistant to dents, warping, and corrosion. That’s a plus if you live in an area with extreme weather.
4. Added Comfort and Value
An insulated garage maintains a more stable temperature, making it more comfortable for hobbies, laundry, or even workouts. It also boosts curb appeal and resale value.
These insulated garage door energy savings make the extra investment worthwhile in regions with harsh winters or hot summers.
When a Non-Insulated Door Makes Sense
That said, not every home needs an insulated door. If your garage is detached, rarely used, or you live in a consistently mild climate, a non-insulated model might be the practical choice.
- More affordable upfront
- Lightweight
- Easier to install
- Good enough for unheated or detached garages
However, they don’t provide the same soundproofing, energy efficiency, or strength. And if your garage connects to your home, the lack of insulation can let outside air seep in, driving up your energy use.
Weatherstripping in Garage Door Efficiency
Even the best insulated door can’t perform without proper weatherstripping. The seals around the edges block drafts, dust, and moisture from sneaking in. Over time, though, they wear down.
Replacing or maintaining your garage door weatherstripping once a year helps preserve your door’s efficiency and protects your investment in insulation. It’s a small maintenance task that can make a big difference in comfort and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an insulated garage door worth it in a mild climate?
Absolutely. Insulation helps stabilize internal temperatures and reduce noise even in mild regions. It also offers stronger construction and better durability.
How much can I save on energy bills with insulation?
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, garages account for up to 25% of a home’s energy loss when attached to the house. A well-insulated door can reduce that loss and lead to measurable garage door energy savings.
Can I add insulation to my existing door?
You can, but it’s not usually the easiest or most effective option. Most insulation kits available for existing doors tend to look unprofessional and don’t add much real insulation value to your home.
Additionally, adding insulation increases the door’s weight, which means you’ll need to replace your springs with stronger ones to ensure proper balance and safe operation.
Overall, we typically recommend saving your money and budgeting for a new, insulated door instead — it’s a more reliable and efficient long-term solution.
What’s Best for Your Home
If your garage doubles as a workspace or sits underneath a bedroom or living space, an insulated model will pay for itself. For detached garages or storage-only spaces in mild climates, a standard non-insulated door works just fine.
Either way, remember: insulation and garage door weatherstripping work best as a team. Together, they protect your home from the elements and make your garage a more usable space year-round.
Make Smart Upgrades
Your garage door is one of the biggest moving parts in your home. Whether you prioritize cost, comfort, or efficiency, understanding the differences between insulated and non-insulated doors helps you make an informed decision.
If you’re ready to explore your options, contact KJ Doors for a custom consultation. We’ll help you choose a door that fits your home, your climate, and your lifestyle.
