Tools and Materials
Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.
- Garage door insulation helps moderate temperatures, reduce energy costs, and make your home more comfortable.
- Insulation R-values for garage doors vary, with warmer climates requiring lower R-values and colder climates requiring higher R-values.
- Choose insulation that’s designed for your garage door and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and safety.
- In general, installation steps include cutting the insulation to fit the door panels, securing the installation according to the instructions and testing door operation.
- Maintain garage door insulation by ensuring the insulation is secure to the door and replacing torn or damaged insulation.
Insulating a Garage Door
Adding insulation to an uninsulated garage door is a relatively simple project that can offer several benefits:
- Lower energy costs
- Improved comfort in adjacent living spaces
- Reduced temperature extremes in the garage
- Reduced outside noise
Choose the Right Insulation
The greater the R-value, the more effectively the insulation reduces heat loss and gain.
- If you live in a warmer climate or if you use your garage for parking only, lower R-values are often sufficient.
- If you live in a colder climate, use your garage as a workspace or gym, or if your garage is heated, you need higher R-values.
Note that garage door insulation typically has lower R-values than standard insulation. If you need a higher R-value, consider purchasing an insulated garage door and having it professionally installed.
The weight of standard roll and batt insulation may lead to failure of or excessive wear on the opener and springs. Use only insulation that’s designated for garage doors and follow the insulation manufacturer’s specifications for matching insulation to your door. If you have a garage door opener, check the specifications for weight limits.
How to Insulate Your Garage Door Step by Step
Use the tips below as a general guide for installing garage door insulation on an uninsulated steel garage door. Specific installation steps vary by manufacturer, insulation type and door type, so follow the instructions and any safety guidance for your insulation and project
Step 1: Prepare the Door
- Brush away dust, spider webs and other debris from the door panels and frame elements.
- Use an all-purpose cleaner, if necessary, to remove grime from the door panels.
- Inspect the door for damage.
- Handle any necessary maintenance or have repairs made if necessary.
- Install retaining clip bases, if required for your insulation.
- Measure the first panel from top to bottom and between the vertical rails.
Some garage door insulation panels are sized to fit the spaces in standard doors.
Step 2: Cut and Install the Insulation
- Transfer your measurements to the insulation panel or roll, adding an inch or so to the height and width if specified by your instructions.
- Cut the insulation to size with a utility knife.
- Install the insulation according to the manufacturer’s instructions, for example, by using retention clips, double-sided tape, spray adhesive or a friction fit.
If you’re cutting fiberglass insulation, wear safety glasses, a respirator and work gloves.
Step 3: Fit the Other Insulation and Test the Garage Door
- Size and install insulation on the other door panels — note that the door panels might be different sizes.
- Open and close the garage door to ensure the insulation doesn’t interfere with operation.
- If the door is difficult to open or won’t stay open, or if your garage door opener struggles to raise the door, contact a professional to adjust the door balance.
Maintaining Garage Door Insulation
Check the insulation periodically to make sure it’s secure on the door. If necessary, remove the insulation and apply new double-sided tape or adhesive or reinstall the retaining clips, depending on your insulation type. Replace torn or broken sections as necessary.
Reduce Energy Costs With Garage Door Insulation
Shop Lowes.com for the insulation you need for your garage door or stop by your local Lowe’s and talk to a Red Vest associate. They’ll help you find the materials you need for insulating your garage door and the tools you need to do the job right. And they can recommend insulation for other areas of your home to keep you comfortable and reduce energy costs.