The insulation factor "R" of the Garage Doors

When it comes time to shop a new garage door, we often hear about the factor "R" in reference to the insulation of the latter. What is the "R" isolation factor and what is its role precisely? What should I consider when choosing my next garage door?

The factor "R"

The factor "R" refers to the calculation (imperial measurement) which represents the thermal resistance of a material available in the construction market. Specifically, this factor measures the level of thermal conductivity (hot / cold) that flows through the wall. In this sense, the higher an "R" factor , the greater the performance of any material or amalgam of insulating materials.

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Types of insulation on the market

The two types of insulation found most often on the market are polyurethane and polystyrene . Polyurethane offers better thermal resistance than polystyrene. Also, polyurethane offers better flexural strength, which gives it greater strength. Many items contain polyurethane, such as residential entry doors and car bumpers.

As for polystyrene, it is found in sandwich-type garage doors, that is doors with three layers: a layer of steel; one layer of insulation and another layer of steel. There are also doors on the market with only one layer of steel; the polystyrene panel is then attached to the back of the door.

It's not just insulation ...

If the garage door is not equipped with a proper weather stripping system and is equipped with thermal bridges (eg. The outer layer of the door is in contact with the inner layer), even with the best insulation available on the market, the ambient temperature inside the garage will be far from optimal. Check whether the weather-stripping between the sections, especially that of the external frame, remains flexible even in very cold temperatures.

What "R" factor should I charge for my garage door?

·         Is your garage detached from the house?

·         If the garage is detached from the house, is the garage isolated?

·         If yes, prefer a door whose factor will be beyond R-10, especially if you have a backup heater.

·         Otherwise, a door not insulated or having a factor of R-6 will be amply sufficient.

If the garage is attached to the house, be aware that the majority of garages are well insulated, especially if a room is above it. In this case, go to a door with a factor of R-16 and examine its cold tightness.

Will I still need to heat my garage with an R-16 door?

The answer will vary depending on the region where you live. If the average temperature in your area is usually below zero, you will still need to heat up your garage a little bit. Of course, if your garage serves as a workshop or playroom for children, you will need to ensure a comfortable room temperature.

Also, when you park your car inside your garage, the engine of the garage will keep the garage temperature above 0 ° C (32 ° F). If the garage is attached to the house, whenever the door of the house leading garage is open, there is heat transfer.

If, on the contrary if you live in an area where the climate is hot and humid, the garage door with an R-16 factor will keep you away from the heat and humidity and save you a lot of air conditioning costs, at least at home.