We would all like to reduce our heating bill as well as our ecological footprint. Likewise, everyone recognizes that each of us can do something about climate change, like purchasing sustainable products. That said, garage door dealers use R‑value as a reference. But what exactly is it? And what should I look for in my next garage door?
What does R‑value mean?
R‑value is the measurement standard representing the thermal resistance found in construction materials. For instance, it measures the level of thermal conductivity (heat or cold) that passes through a wall. Thus, the higher the R‑value, the better a material or a combination of materials insulates.
What types of insulation are found on the market?
There are basically 2 kinds: polyurethane and polystyrene. Polyurethane outperforms polystyrene not only because it provides better thermal resistance / a higher R‑value, but also because it adheres to the walls of the door. In addition, it provides better bending strength meaning it is sturdier.
Polyurethane is found in different products such as the entry doors for our homes as well as the bumpers on our cars.
The uses of polystyrene are varied, from disposable coffee cups to protective packaging material. For 3‑layer garage doors, the polystyrene is inserted between the two steel walls. Also found are 2‑layer garage doors with only one steel wall and the polystyrene bonded to the back of the door.
Insulation: it that the only thing to consider?
Even with the best insulation on the market, if the door isn’t made with a good weatherproofing system and has thermal bridges (ex.: the exterior metal wall is in contact with the interior one), you lose out. Pay attention to the weatherstripping between sections, that at the bottom of the door, but especially to the one around the exterior frame. Do they all stay flexible at very cold temperatures?
What R‑value should I look for in my garage door?
Is your garage detached or attached to the house?
- If it’s detached, it the garage insulated?
- If yes, look for a door with a value over R‑10, especially if you have an auxiliary heater.
- If no, a non‑insulated door or one with an R‑6 value will be sufficient.
- If it’s attached, most of these garages are well insulated, especially if there is a room over the garage. Look for a door where the value is R‑12 and carefully analyze its resistance to the cold.
Will I have to heat my garage if I choose a door with an R‑16 value?
The answer will be different depending where you live. If the temperature often drops below freezing, you should heat your garage a little. If you use your garage for DIY projects or as a play space for children, you would probably want to maintain a certain temperature level for comfort.
Here is a small detail that you’ll find interesting: when you enter into your garage, the heat given off by the car engine will keep the garage over 32 ℉ (0 ℃). There is also heat transferred from the house into the garage each time you open the access door to the house.
Finally, it you live in an area where it is hot and humid for several days a year, know that your garage door that has an R‑16 value will protect you from the heat and reduce your air conditioning bill.
Whatever your need, whether the purchase of a new garage door or a door opener, or simply for annual maintenance of your garage door, set up a service call online or contact us at 781-270-5066. Our staff will be happy to answer your questions and guide you on the best purchase.
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