Hey there! Today, I’m here to answer a common question: Should you get an insulated or non-insulated garage door? In most cases, especially here in San Antonio with its hot summers and unpredictable weather, an insulated garage door is a smart choice. Let’s break it down so it’s easy to understand.
Why Does Insulation Matter?
Think of your garage door like the lid on a cooler. If it doesn’t do a good job keeping the inside temperature steady, you’ll notice it. In San Antonio, where summer days are super hot, insulation makes a big difference. You can learn more about how our unique climate impacts garage doors by checking out this post on San Antonio’s climate and garage doors.
Insulated Garage Doors
These doors are like the super coolers of the garage world. They have layers of material like steel or wood with insulation in the middle. They help keep your garage comfortable and are strong and quiet.
Here are some great reasons to get an insulated door:
- Saves Energy: If your garage is attached to your house, an insulated door can help keep the temperature steady. This means your AC won’t have to work as hard, which saves energy.
- More Comfortable: If you use your garage as a workshop, gym, or hangout spot, insulation keeps it comfy year-round.
- Quieter and Stronger: Insulated doors are usually sturdier and less noisy. If loud garage doors wake you up, you’ll appreciate this.
Non-Insulated Garage Doors
Non-insulated doors are simple, often just one layer of metal or wood. They work fine if you don’t use your garage much or you’re on a tight budget.
Here’s what to know about them:
- Lower Cost: These doors cost less upfront, so they’re good if you’re keeping things simple.
- Basic Use: They’ll protect your stuff from rain and keep the garage secure but won’t help with temperature control or noise.
- Best for Mild Weather: If your garage isn’t attached or you don’t mind the heat, these doors might be fine.
What Works Best in San Antonio?
In San Antonio, summers can get crazy hot, and we have some cold days too. If your garage is attached to your house or you use it often, I recommend an insulated door. It’ll keep things comfortable and save energy.
Upgrading to an insulated door can also increase your home’s value. A nice-looking, insulated door makes your home more appealing to buyers. If you’re curious about how much a garage can add to your home’s value, check out this blog post on how to assess the value of a garage door in your neighborhood. As I see it, the more important garages are in your area, the more value an insulated garage door is likely to bring.
If your garage is detached and you don’t use it much, and you find out a garage isn’t a big deal in your area, a non-insulated door might work fine. Just remember, the San Antonio sun can make it super hot inside.
Pro Tips
- Check the R-Value: This tells you how good the insulation is. For Texas weather, look for an R-value of 9 or higher. Learn more about R-value.
- Choose the Right Material: Steel doors with polyurethane insulation are strong and work great. Learn which is right for you: Polystyrene or Polyurethane.
- Keep It Maintained: Lubricate the rollers and tracks, and check the weatherstripping regularly.
- Think Long-Term: Insulated doors cost more upfront but save money on energy bills and add comfort.
Final Thoughts
The choice between insulated and non-insulated doors depends on how you use your garage. At ClearPath, we’re here to help you pick what works best for your home and budget.
If you’re considering upgrading or need a fresh start, our expert team specializes in garage door repair and installation in San Antonio. So, whether you need an insulated door to keep cool or a simple non-insulated one, give us a call. We’ll make sure your garage door runs smooth and steady. Stay cool, San Antonio!