Many homeowners view their garage doors as a simple home necessity, but the type of garage door you have can actually affect your energy bills, noise levels, and even the longevity of the items you keep in storage. Given their importance, it makes sense that you would want to weigh the pros and cons of insulated and non-insulated garage doors. However, it’s easy to get intimidated by all the information when you’re making your choice.
If you’re having a hard time deciding what garage door to buy, don’t worry. Read on to learn more about the cost, energy efficiency, noise reduction, and durability of these different types of garage doors to help you choose which one is best for your home.
Insulated Garage Doors vs Non-Insulated
Before you make a decision, you should weigh the pros and cons of each type of door. Once you have the full picture, you can decide what’s best for your home.
Insulated Garage Door Pros
Insulated garage doors offer several perks that make them a practical choice for homeowners. Here are just a few:
Temperature Control
One of the biggest advantages of insulated garage doors is their ability to regulate temperature. By creating an insulated barrier between the outside elements and the garage interior, these doors help maintain a more consistent temperature. If you use your garage as a workspace or for storing temperature-sensitive items, this is a huge perk.
Energy Savings
Because insulated doors maintain more consistent temperatures, they can lead to bigger energy savings. By reducing temperature differences between the garage and the rest of the house, these doors can help lower heating and cooling costs, especially in homes with attached garages.
Noise Reduction
Insulated garage doors excel at dampening sound, both from the inside and the outside. If you live near busy streets or value peace and quiet, this is a major benefit.
Increased Durability
The additional layer of insulation in these doors can also give them a sturdier construction. In turn, it helps protect against dents and damage, which can extend the life of the door and keep it looking brand-new for years.
Insulated Garage Door Cons
Despite any benefits, insulated doors also have some cons. Here are a few to consider:
Higher Initial Cost
The biggest disadvantage of insulated garage doors is that they cost more initially. According to Angi, an insulated garage door costs $1,500 on average. Depending on the type and quality of insulation, you can expect to pay at least a few hundred dollars more than a non-insulated door.
Added Weight
Insulation adds weight to the door, which may require a more powerful opener. This extra weight can also make manual operation more challenging if the power goes out.
Moisture Issues
In certain climates, insulated doors may be prone to trapping moisture, which can lead to issues like mold or rust if you don’t keep up with maintenance.
Non-Insulated Garage Door Pros
Non-insulated garage doors have their own set of advantages that make them a viable option for homeowners. Here are some of the most important perks:
Lower Initial Cost
The most significant advantage of non-insulated garage doors is their affordability. According to Angi, non-insulated garage doors can range from $755 to $1,696, which is much less than the $1,500 average for insulated doors. This makes them perfect for budget-conscious homeowners.
Lighter Weight
Without the added insulation, these doors are typically lighter, which can reduce strain on your garage door opener. This may also result in lower maintenance costs over time.
Simpler Maintenance
Non-insulated doors often have a simpler construction, which can make repairs and maintenance more straightforward and potentially less expensive.
Non-Insulated Garage Door Cons
Non-insulated doors also come with some notable drawbacks, like the following:
Poor Temperature Control
The lack of insulation means these doors provide little protection against temperature fluctuations. This can lead to higher energy costs for your home.
Increased Noise
Non-insulated doors offer minimal sound dampening, which can be an issue for homes in noisy areas or for those who use their garage as a workspace.
Less Durable
Without the extra layer of insulation, these doors may be more susceptible to dents and damage. Although repairs may be more affordable, you may also need more of them over time.
So, How Do You Choose?
The choice between insulated and non-insulated doors is often a toss-up. It all comes down to what you value most. Use the topics below to narrow down which type of door is best for your specific situation.
Climate
Your local climate plays a big role in determining whether an insulated door is necessary. If you live in an area with mild temperatures, it’s not as important. On the other hand, if you live in regions with extreme temperatures, an insulated door may be a better option.
Garage Usage
If your garage is mainly just for parking cars, a non-insulated door should be fine. However, if your garage doubles as a workspace or storage area, an insulated door might be the better choice.
Energy Costs
Homeowners should consider their current energy costs. In areas with high energy prices, the long-term savings from an insulated door could offset the higher initial cost.
Budget
While it’s important to consider long-term savings, the initial budget is still a crucial factor. There’s a big price difference between the two options, so you’ll have to do what’s best for your budget. Still, be sure to weigh the up-front costs against potential energy savings when you calculate what you want to invest.
Noise Concerns
For those living in noisy areas or who are sensitive to sound, insulated doors may be a big help in making your home more comfortable. However, if you live in a rural area that’s quiet and peaceful, non-insulated doors should be totally fine.
Conclusion
Choosing between insulated and non-insulated garage doors may not seem like a big deal, but when your money is on the line, every decision counts. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. If you use the factors above to narrow down your choice, you should have an easier time making your decision.
