You have many reasons to hire a garage door installation professional, but it’s up to you to prepare for the big day. The installation process takes a few hours, but it will be easy if you follow our tips.  Readying your home allows our technicians to work more quickly and efficiently.

These suggestions can help make garage door installation a more positive experience:

Move Vehicles Out of the Garage

The installers cannot work if cars are in your garage. Vehicles are usually parked under where the opener, springs, and tracks are. It’s best to move your car out before the installers arrive. Otherwise, they must wait for it to be moved and may charge for the extra time.

Plan on where to store your car in advance to make things easier. For example, look for street parking near your home or find a safe location on your property. Your vehicle should also be kept away from the garage opening. This is where the installer will need to position their vehicle and bring in equipment and tools.

Clear All Stored Items Out of the Space

Clear out your garage if possible. Aside from vehicles, move boxes, tools, machinery, furniture, and equipment to another area. The garage door installation team must maneuver around the space while they set up and install parts of the door and garage door opener. 

If there’s no room for them elsewhere, move items to the rear of the garage. Lawnmowers and other yard equipment, sports equipment, garbage cans, and other items can be stored in the back of the room if necessary. We recommend having at least 14 feet of clearance from the garage door opening toward the back. This gives the installer room to work as they remove the existing system and assemble the new one.

Have a Safe Place for Children and Pets

Children are naturally curious and garage door installation can look fascinating to them. However, they’re often unaware of safety concerns. Playing in the garage area or being near heavy equipment, power tools, springs or other components is dangerous. That’s not to say a friendly installer won’t show a child a tool or answer a question. But generally, only the installation team should be in the garage.

Also, do not let pets roam freely around the installation area. Even the most friendly pet can cause a worker to trip. Or, an installer may drop something or leave it on the floor, which can endanger the animal if it decides to chew on it. Therefore, keep pets in a secure room or make arrangements with a family member or neighbor if you can’t find one.

Measure the Garage Door Opening

Taking measurements before garage door installation can help you understand the project’s requirements. It also helps communicate with the customer service and installation team. While the technicians will perform accurate measurements, you can prepare in advance by measuring the following:

• The width and height of the space where the door will go.
• The width on the right and left sides of the door opening.
• The distance from the top of the opening to the ceiling (headroom).
• The depth of the room, from the door opening to the back of the garage.

Determine If There’s a Nearby Electrical Outlet

Check for nearby outlets. The garage door opener must plug into one to receive power. A standard 120-volt outlet is suited for an opener, but depending on the system’s power rating, you may need an electrician to install a dedicated circuit. 

Decide Where to Put the Console/Entry Pad

The garage door isn’t the only component you must account for. And, aside from the opener, think about where the wall console or keyless entry pad will go. Control consoles are usually placed on the wall near the door you enter the garage (from inside your home). Keyless entry pads are typically installed on the left side of the exterior jamb, about five feet high. 

The installer may be able to match your preferences. Therefore, discuss location options in advance. Before the team arrives, make sure nothing is blocking the walls where controllers will be placed.

Choose a Location for the Garage Door Opener

If you’ve never had an automatic system, select a place for the opener before the garage door installation team arrives. Otherwise, you’ll have to discuss with them possible locations and then prepare the area. You can keep things simpler by planning. Look for a suitable area, preferably one near an electrical outlet or accessible via an extension cord. If shelving, boxes, or furniture are in the way, move them before installation begins.

Let Your Neighbors Know

Installing a garage door requires a lot of space for equipment and vehicles. It can also be noisy. If your home is close to other houses and apartments, inform your neighbors about your intentions. This way, they won’t be caught off-guard by the noise, and if the crew needs more space in adjacent areas, a friendly neighbor can be ready to accommodate them.

Ensure Easy Access to Your Property

The garage door installers will be going back and forth for several hours. Make sure vehicles have been moved out of your driveway and any walkways near your home have no obstructions that can block their path. The contractors should also have a clear path from their vehicle to the installation site. This gives them room to position the door and set up the required tools and materials.

Prepare Questions in Advance

Open communication helps address your concerns. It also reveals specific project requirements and enables each party to be aware of last-minute changes. Preparing questions in advance can help the installation process go smoother.

Questions you should ask the company and its technicians include the following:

• How long have you been installing garage doors?
• Can I review samples of previous work from your portfolio?
• What type of liability insurance do you have?
• Does your installation service come with a warranty?
• How long will the garage door installation process take?
• Can you detail every cost in your quote?
• What garage door options do you recommend?
• Which manufacturers do you work with?
• How much can I save by insulating the door?
• Will you remove/dispose of my old garage door?
• Should I replace my garage door opener as well?
• Do I need to be home during installation?
• Do you provide emergency repair services?

It also helps to know the door’s features in advance. If possible, obtain the user manual before the installation. It can help you understand the system and determine what to ask when the installers arrive.

Schedule Garage Door Installation Today

At Mesa Garage Doors, we offer next-day installation on many products. Our specialists are trained and equipped to install carriage house, custom wood, high-strength aluminum, steel, and other types of garage doors of all sizes. Contact us, request a free estimate, or call (800) 893-1107 for customized service in Southern California.

The garage door trim forms the door’s frame. While not a mechanical component, it can wear out or be damaged, affecting your garage door’s performance and visual appeal. A professional often does door trim repair. However, if you’re a handy homeowner, we’ll explain how to replace your garage door trim as a DIY project. This is not as simple as replacing garage door weather stripping, but it is doable.

Signs Your Garage Door Frame Needs Repair

The trim around your garage door is typically made of wood. As such, it can wear and break down for many reasons. While you can paint over spotty damage, this can cause issues in the long run (unless the trim is in good shape and the goal is to change your garage’s look). 

Nonetheless, here are signs it’s time to consider replacing your garage door trim:

• Wood Is Rotting: Once parts of the trim start to rot, it can fall apart. Replacing the damaged section may be an option. However, replacing the entire trim is better if it’s aging and needs a functional and aesthetic update.
• Pieces Are Missing: If parts of the door trim are missing, it must be repaired immediately. Wood may be deteriorating or an impact may have caused damage that can spread without door trim repair.
• Paint Is Peeling: Wood rot, damage, or weathering can cause the paint to come off. This leaves your home susceptible to more damage and can reduce its curb appeal. The trim must be repaired and painted.

Garage Door Trim Replacement Process

This type of garage door repair may not be as simple as you think. Here’s an overview of how to proceed, starting with choosing the proper materials, tools, etc.

Gather Materials and Supplies

The first step to door trim repair is to collect all the materials, tools, and other supplies needed, which include the following:

• Trim Material: Wood is the traditional choice and is highly versatile. Pine, cedar, and redwood are common trim options; they resist decay quite well. Composites like PVC or fiber cement are also durable. These resist rot, pests, and harsh weather. Aluminum or steel trims are common choices for contemporary homes.
• Tools: Your toolkit should start with measuring implements. These include a tape measure to accurately determine the door opening’s dimensions and a leveling tool to ensure the trim is horizontally and vertically level. Other necessary tools for garage door trim replacement include:
• Pry Bar: This makes it easier to remove the old trim.
• Handsaw or Power Saw: To cut trim segments to required lengths.
• Hammer/Nail Gun: This is used for securing the door trim.
• Adhesive: A construction-grade adhesive can yield a cleaner look.
• Caulk/Caulking Gun: To seal gaps between the trim and frame.
• Sandpaper: To smooth edges and prepare the surface to be painted or stained.
• Primer: It’s necessary before coloring raw wood trims.
• Paintbrush/Roller: To properly apply any primer, paint, or stain.
• Safety Gear: Wear safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask whenever working with the door trim.
• Cleaning Supplies: Have rags or cloths handy to clean surfaces and wipe any spills. Trash bags are needed to collect debris, including old trim materials.
• Ladder: A sturdy ladder lets you safely work on trim that’s higher than you can reach.

Remove the Old Trim

A sharp blade is needed to cut through the old caulking. Then the old trim can be removed with a pry bar or flat-head screwdriver. The underlying material may be wood, rubber, or a composite layer. Note the material and its condition. It will have to be replaced if it’s damaged or deteriorated, or small holes or cracks can be filled. Water damage may require more extensive repairs.

Prepare the Area

Once the underlying surface is exposed, remove any nails or other fasteners and clean off any residual adhesive. If any rough spots remain, they must be sanded until the surface is smooth. This ensures the new trim sits flush and adheres properly. If water damage is present, a water-resistant sealant should be applied. If there’s mold or mildew, the area should be treated accordingly.

Select the Trim Material

First, the area where the trim will be installed must be accurately measured. This ensures enough material is purchased and can be cut to size. Consider all angles, corners, and other features that require special cuts. Aside from matching the layout, the trim should match your home’s architectural style, in addition to being weather-resistant and suited for your budget.

Install the New Garage Door Trim

The general process of installing new trim for your garage door is as follows:

• Initial Preparation: After the old trim is removed, the garage should be thoroughly pressure-washed. Applying a fresh strip of paint, about two to three inches wide, around the perimeter provides additional protection. Wait a few hours for the paint strip to dry.
• Decide How to Secure the Trim: In the meantime, determine how the trim will be fixed to the frame. Nails are more suited for heavier trims. However, an adhesive can be used for lighter materials and provides a cleaner look. If harsh weather is common in your area, a combination of both can increase durability.
• Cut the Trim: Using a saw, cut the trim precisely based on your previous measurements. You may want to temporarily fix the pieces in position with a nail gun and ensure everything is aligned. Use a level to determine if each piece is straight. The slightest misalignment can impact the trim’s appearance and functionality.
• Apply Adhesive: If using adhesive, apply the material evenly to the back of the trim. Avoid using too much or it may ooze out. If finishing nails are also being used, they should be placed every four to five inches. Carefully place each segment of trim where it fits.
• Inspect the Trim: Check for gaps or misalignments. Small gaps can be filled with caulk, which also provides a moisture barrier. Adjust any misalignments before the adhesive sets or more nails are used to anchor the material. Your final adjustments must ensure each piece is positioned correctly.
• Clean Up The Area: If adhesive has oozed out from the edges, remove the excess. Discard any debris or other loose materials. Leave the trim undisturbed and let it dry for 24 hours. In the interim, final adjustments can be made to ensure the trim is aligned correctly and attached securely.

Painting

The trim should be primed before being painted. Many people prefer the natural look of wood trim. Staining it can keep its appeal and protect the material. If the trim material is naturally white, you can leave it that way. However, this shows dirt easily and can get stained and discolored over time. 

A trim color that doesn’t show dirt as well is easier to maintain. That doesn’t limit you to a dark color. You can choose a neutral trim to contrast with a boldly colored door. The trim can also be the same color as your home’s facade or contrast with the door or the rest of the exterior. 

Painting garage door trim requires patience and attention to detail. Hiring a professional ensures the right equipment is used and sound decisions are made (they can also help match the trim and your garage door to your home’s style).

Frequently Asked Questions

When Should I Check for Garage Door Trim Damage?

Generally, we recommend inspecting the door trim every six months. This is usually enough to catch issues before they lead to additional damage.

Do I Need a Professional for Door Trim Replacement?

This depends on your skill and comfort level with DIY projects. If the process is complex and you’re not experienced with garage door repairs, consider hiring a pro.

How Much Is It to Replace a Garage Door Trim?

Replacing the trim is affordable compared to most garage door repairs. However, the actual cost can vary depending on the material used and if other repairs are needed.

Hire a Pro for Garage Door Trim Repair and Replacement

If your garage door trim is damaged or worn, the professionals at Mesa Garage Doors can fix it for you. Our factory-trained technicians work throughout Southern California. They can perform door trim repair or replacement to save you time and improve the look and function of your garage. Call (800) 893-1107 to learn more or get a free repair estimate.

Roll-up garage doors have many benefits but can develop common problems. While most often used for businesses, they’re also found in some residential applications. These doors have several pros and cons. Property owners often prefer them because they save space and are strong, durable, secure, and well-insulated. However, significant issues can occur. If you’re considering a roll-up garage door or already have one, the following are common problems you should know about.

Loss of Power

Like any automatic garage door, a roll-up model requires a power source to open and close. It won’t work if there’s a loss of power. A power outage in your neighborhood can be one reason for this. If the problem is from the utility grid, you’ll have to wait until power is restored or your emergency generator kicks in.

However, if the issue is isolated to your home, here are some possible causes and solutions:

• Tripped Circuit Breaker: An overloaded circuit or problem with the garage door opener can cause the breaker to trip. Resetting the breaker switch at the panel should fix the problem. If not, unplug other devices on the circuit or call an electrician to troubleshoot and fix the issue.
• The Opener Is Unplugged: Check if the power plug for the garage door opener is plugged in. If it’s unplugged or the plug is not secure, insert it into the socket and try operating the door again.
• Switch/Wiring Problem: A defective wall switch or faulty wiring can prevent your roll-up garage door from working correctly. Wiring or other electrical issues should be handled only by an experienced professional.

Obstructions

Any type of obstruction anywhere in the garage door system can prevent it from working. Most people think of an obstruction as a large object or debris blocking the door. However, dust, dirt, and grime can be just as disruptive, especially if they build up on the rollers or in the tracks. 

If you can reach it, wipe away any grime and loose material with a damp rag. You can try using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment for a larger buildup. But if the material is hard to remove or getting to it requires disassembly, call a professional to inspect, clean, and, if necessary, repair the unit.

Missing Safety Edge

Designed to detect obstructions via specialized sensors, the safety edge can reverse the door while it’s closing to avoid injuries and property damage. A safety edge is a common feature of a commercial roll-up garage door. If it is missing or damaged, the door may stop working, or it can become a safety hazard and damage anything in its path (or be damaged in the process).

Parts and Components Have Worn Out

A roll-up garage door has many components that can wear out as they age. Therefore, wear-related issues are common. If one small component fails, the door may not open properly or it may stop working altogether. Some of the most common parts of the system that may need replacement include:

• Torsion Springs: Depending on the spring, it can last as many as 50,000 cycles. Springs wear out with use, but humidity and other environmental conditions can lead to rust.
• End Bearing Plates: These plates support the weight of the spring and door, but they can wear out and start to grind. This causes noise, and the plates can bind up, throwing the door out of alignment and preventing it from moving.
• Photo Eye Sensors: If the receiver isn’t getting the signal from the transmitter, your garage door won’t open or close. This can happen because a sensor is obstructed, the photo eyes are out of alignment, or the door isn’t level.

High Spring Tension

A roll-up garage door won’t work properly if the spring tension doesn’t meet the required specifications. The spring is also at a higher risk of breaking. Too high a tension setting makes the door harder to close, but it will be easier to open. Low tension makes it easier to close the door and more difficult to open it. 

Adjusting the springs can be dangerous. If you suspect incorrect spring tension is causing your garage door problems, call a professional to calibrate or replace your springs safely.

Bad Spring or Cable

If there’s a spring or cable problem, the door will struggle to stay open. Check if a spring is stretched or has a gap, or if a cable is frayed or broken; if so, it must be replaced. Garage door spring and cable replacement must be performed by a professional, who can complete the repair safely and quickly.

Misalignments

A misaligned track, hood, or fascia can cause the door to scrape against the guides. This can strip paint off the panels or cause more severe damage. A corroded track can cause a garage door to become misaligned. Meanwhile, misaligned tracks can damage the curtain or cause excess strain that burns out the motor. If you believe any part of your garage door is misaligned, call a professional before there’s costly damage.

Jammed or Failed Motor

The motor in the garage door opener is a complex mechanism. If it completely fails, the door won’t work at all. However, a range of other issues are possible. Call for help if the motor makes strange noises or causes the door to move more slowly, faster, or in a jerky motion. If there’s a delay or no response when you use the wall switch or remote, the motor may be out of sync with the door or on the brink of failure.

Before you call a repair company, try to troubleshoot the issue by turning off the door and power supply. Then you can inspect the motor for obvious issues. Your findings can help a technician more quickly diagnose the problem. Or, they can isolate the issue to a different component such as a malfunctioning sensor or faulty wire.

Improper Installation

If there’s an installation issue, a roll-up garage door may not run smoothly. It can also be noisy or become misaligned. Poor quality installation often means the door isn’t properly secured to the frame or track. Over time, this can cause it to loosen or shift. The door will become more difficult to operate and major damage may require costly repairs or a replacement.

Can I Adjust a Roll-Up Garage Door?

Roll-up doors may need adjustment for many reasons. First, you have to identify the issue, which may be an uneven panel, misaligned track, or worn-out part. Adjusting the door system requires various tools and supplies, depending on the problem and the parts needed. Some adjustments entail just tightening screws or bolts. However, others aren’t so straightforward and require advanced skills and knowledge.

How Long Does It Take to Fix a Roll-Up Door?

Most roll-up door repairs take a few hours. Without a professional, the process can take longer and you risk costly and time-consuming mistakes. If you’re not familiar with fixing issues such as a door off the track, a broken spring, or a faulty garage door opener connection (or have the proper tools), contact a repair professional.

What If My Roll-Up Garage Door Doesn’t Work?

If the door stops working, troubleshoot the issue by checking the power connections and circuit breaker. Also, look for damage such as a broken spring or bent track. A stuck door can prevent you from getting in or out of your garage. Use the emergency release rope and pull the handle if this is the case. Once the motor is disengaged, you should be able to lift the door manually.

Contact Us for Roll-Up Garage Door Repairs

At Mesa Garage Doors, our skilled professionals can fix any problem. They’re familiar with all types of garage doors and their components. Roll-up garage doors can be more challenging to repair than other models, but our team can promptly and efficiently troubleshoot and resolve any issue. We serve customers in Los Angeles and Orange County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County, and Ventura County. To request a repair service, book your appointment online or call (800) 893-1107 today.

Garage door lubrication helps the system run smoothly and reduces wear and tear. In this article, we’ll provide maintenance tips for lubricating your garage door. This should be done at least once or twice a year (a professional can take care of it during routine annual or semi-annual maintenance). The system can even be lubricated more frequently if you think it’s necessary, such as when the door becomes noisy or starts to slow up.

Proper maintenance can add years to your garage door’s life and save on repair costs. The following garage door lubrication tips should help you realize its benefits:

1. Check Your Garage Door System First

Before adding lubricant to your garage door system, check for any issues. This provides the opportunity to find loose nuts or bolts to tighten. Worn parts such as rollers and hinges can cause your garage door to perform erratically. If you hear slapping sounds, the garage door opener chain may be loose. Call a technician if any problem requires repairing or replacing any components.

2. Choose the Right Type of Lubricant

Not all lubricants are ideal for garage doors. People often ask about using WD-40, but it’s more of a cleaning agent than a lubricant. It can help remove rust, oils, and buildup from garage door tracks but also ruins the grease that’s already there. It also makes the system more susceptible to dirt buildup. And, since WD-40 breaks down chemical bonds in metal to remove rust, it can damage garage door parts.

That being said, the best compounds for garage door lubrication include:

• White Lithium Grease: Made of soap and oil, white lithium grease works well with metal and is non-corrosive. It’s also easy to spread evenly by hand. This can be messy, but there’s another option if this isn’t for you.
• Silicone Sprays: A silicone spray product typically comes in a can with a thin straw attachment. The attachment helps get the lubricant into small spaces. In addition to being long-lasting, the compound tolerates a wide temperature range.

3. Clean the Garage Door Tracks

Make sure the tracks are clean so the rollers move smoothly. You can use a vacuum cleaner with an attachment to remove dust or large debris. If any dirt remains, wipe it away with a damp rag. Stubborn debris can be loosened and removed with an automotive brake cleaner. If you think it’s necessary, apply a small amount of lithium-based grease or silicone lubricant with a putty knife (but use it only sparingly).

4. Know What Parts to Lubricate

Certain garage door components benefit most from lubrication, especially those that move or contact other parts. Lubricating the following will help your garage door run more smoothly.

• Hinges and Rollers: To access the hinges, open the garage door manually (by disconnecting it from the opener via the release cord). As you lift the door, spray or wipe the hinges between each section. Ideally, you should have someone help lift the door while you apply the grease. Use the straw attachment to lubricate the ball bearings in the rollers.
• Springs: Most garage doors have springs installed along the top. Use a step ladder to reach them and apply lithium grease (WD-40 makes such a product designed for use with garage doors). You can spray the springs directly or wipe them down using a rag to spread the grease evenly. If a spring is bent or has a gap, call a professional to replace it.
• Bearing Plates: The circular bearing plates are at the ends of the pole to which the torsion springs are attached. Therefore, they are easy to reach while lubricating the springs. The bearing plates can be sprayed or wiped down. 
• Top Rail: Find the top rail, which runs parallel to the ceiling inside the garage, and use a stepladder to reach it. The garage door opener chain moves along this rail. The best way to lubricate the top rail is to spray grease directly on it.
• Arm Bar: Next, locate the armbar, which connects the top rail and garage door. To improve system operation, it can be sprayed or wiped with grease.
• Door Lock: Apply lubricant directly to the garage door lock. This prevents it from rusting. You’ll also find it easier to lock and unlock the door as you leave and return home.
• Chain/Belt Drive: Garage door openers with chain or belt drives must be lubricated regularly. Otherwise, they can rust and malfunction. Apply white lithium grease directly to the chain or belt and then turn on the opener. As it runs, the grease will be evenly distributed.

5. Identify Any Other Sources of Noise

Garage door lubrication doesn’t always stop noise or other issues. If it still squeaks or makes other loud noises, the door may need to be repaired or replaced. A rubbing sound can mean you have a bent garage door track. Rattling sounds are typically caused by loose parts, while a squeaking sound can mean the hinges or rollers have worn out. The door may also shake as it opens or closes. Dirty bearings will cause rollers to wear out faster; they can be cleaned and oiled, but worn-out bearings must be replaced.

Noise can sometimes be addressed by tightening or adjusting garage door parts. It can also originate from the garage door opener. Belt drive openers are quieter than chain drive models, so, it might be worth considering a replacement. If your garage door opener is relatively new and noisy, call a professional to look at it. Do not attempt a DIY repair, as it can result in injuries, more damage, or voiding your warranty.

Contact Mesa Garage Doors

Mesa Garage Doors is the premier residential garage door company in Southern California. We install a wide range of garage door styles and provide repair services. Our experienced team can resolve any issue. If you have questions about garage door lubrication or need to schedule repairs or maintenance, request your estimate or book service online. Call (800) 893-1107 to speak with us directly.

High-quality wood garage door insulation helps maintain your home’s overall energy efficiency. Since a garage door seals your home’s largest opening, there’s much to know. Without adequate insulation, your home will be warmer and more humid in summer and cold and drafty in winter. Your heating and cooling system will work harder and use more energy, increasing utility and operating costs.

Insulated garage doors avoid these issues. We’ll look at their importance and benefits while exploring whether you need to add insulation to a well-constructed wood garage door. Also, we’ll look at what to know about insulating a wood garage door that’s not well-insulated.

Do I Need to Add Insulation to My Wood Garage Door?

Wood has natural insulating properties. Air pockets within its porous cellular structure make it an effective insulator, making wood many times more insulating than steel or aluminum. It’s especially good at holding heat, which can create issues in warmer weather. However, a properly designed and insulated garage door helps improve temperature regulation. Therefore, whether you need more insulation depends on your garage door.

It’s often assumed steel garage doors are more effective insulators. However, wood garage door manufacturers often integrate a multi-layer design. They may also integrate a polystyrene layer that increases the door’s R-value. The higher the R-value, the more thermal insulation the door provides, so heat transfer doesn’t impact comfort and energy efficiency.

Types of Wood Garage Door Insulation

If your garage door is not insulated or its insulating properties can be improved, there are a few options. Home improvement stores often sell insulation in pre-cut sheets or panels. Adding insulation requires installing panels on the door’s interior. Your options for materials include:

• Foam Insulation: Double-layer foam panels are effective for paneled wood garage doors; the insulating boards fit directly into the panels. However, foam board or reflective insulation is better for flat garage doors. Foam insulation is generally available as polystyrene (which makes up coffee cups and packaging materials) or polyurethane, a pliable, more thermally resistant material that adheres well to garage doors. If using foam board, choose only non-flammable vinyl- or aluminum-faced board to avoid safety issues.
• Batt Insulation: A much thicker material, batt insulation isn’t usually ideal for garage doors. It can be difficult to fit into recessed panels. The material can be compressed, but this reduces its insulating ability. Batt insulation is more commonly used in exterior walls as a paper- or foil-backed fiberglass material that blocks vapor and air. Thinner types used to wrap HVAC ducts can work for garage doors if you want to go this route.
• Reflective Insulation: Reflective insulation is available in single- or double-layer foils. In between is a layer of polyethylene bubbles; together these materials block radiant heat. This is an effective option for garages in hot climates. When installing reflective insulation, the panels should be cut larger than the door’s panels, creating a bend and air bubble between the material and wood surface to improve insulating properties.

Should I Consider Synthetic Materials?

Homeowners often choose synthetic materials to save. While using lower-cost materials can be a quick fix, they are lower in quality, not as insulating, and more prone to wear. For example, chipboard core and hollow core steel garage doors are poor insulators. Faux wood is far less insulating than a natural wood garage door. It is also harmful to the environment during manufacturing and when disposed of. 

Synthetic materials have much less insulating value than real wood. They are also less durable, so you end up paying more for repairs and early replacement. Even composite doors are more prone to weathering. Solid wood garage doors:

• Are naturally dense and durable
• Help maintain a constant temperature
• Can contain oils that repel burrowing insects
• Have a more attractive design than steel doors
• Resist intrusion of outside air

Benefits of Insulated Wood Garage Doors

Insulated garage doors, especially custom wood garage doors, have many benefits, including:

• Energy Efficiency: Heat transfer through a garage door affects temperature control in your garage, reducing comfort throughout your home. That’s because the entry door and walls between an attached garage and your home aren’t as insulated. Your HVAC system will be overworked, possibly leading to a costly repair or replacement.
• Durability: Wood garage doors are highly durable, so they last longer than other types. They’re less prone to dents and other damage and are more resistant to extreme weather. While metal garage doors are prone to rust, wood garage doors aren’t, so you enjoy more years of efficiency and resistance to heat, cold, and wind. Wood is so durable it’s also often used for exterior doors and patio furniture.
• Less Noise: An insulated wood garage door provides quieter operation. It naturally buffers noise generated by the door opening and closing. High-quality materials also block noise from outdoors, so your home is quieter in general. 
• Design Flexibility: Wood garage doors come in many styles, sizes, and shapes. They can be customized to fit any opening size. Whether you prefer a natural wood color or a different color or shade, the door can be customized to match your home’s exterior. There are also many types of wood, including cedar, redwood, plywood, and composite wood.
• More Insulation Can Be Added: Depending on the needs of your home, the manufacturer can incorporate higher R-value materials or add more insulating layers. Your home will be even more protected against heat or cold.

How Much Insulation Do I Need?

Depending on your garage door, you may not require any more insulation. Check the R-value when comparing products. If you have a detached garage, an R0 to R6 door is fine, but a door for an attached garage should be rated at least R7 to R9. Meanwhile, a heated garage requires R10 to R13 insulation. If there’s a living space above the garage, wood garage door insulation should be R14 or higher.

Can I Insulate a Wood Garage Door Myself?

You always need a professional to install a garage door, but adding insulation is a different story. Rolls, boards, or panels of insulating materials are often available at hardware stores. Installation kits may also be available. These include pre-cut panels that may closely fit the panels of your garage door, along with tape or fasteners.

To install wood garage door insulation, follow these steps:

• Choose an insulating material (rigid foam board insulation is best for wood doors).
• Mark each door panel, vertically centered and 12 inches from each side.
• Place double-sided tape at the pre-marked locations; peel off the front layer.
• Stick a retainer clip to each piece of tape you’ve applied.
• Measure each door panel and note each one’s dimensions.
• Cut each insulation panel to match its corresponding door panel (plus 1 or 2 inches).
• Tuck the insulating material’s ends into the door panel.
• Find the retention clips behind the insulation; cut ½ inch slits for the front of the clips to fit.
• Secure the front pieces to the back parts of the retention clips.

Depending on the foam board, it can be cut to size with a utility knife. Another way to install it is to apply an adhesive in an “X” pattern and fit the board into each door panel. Hit the material softly with a rubber mallet to ensure it fits tightly. For a door without panels, cut the insulating board to the full size of the door or cut it into multiple pieces that form a solid insulated covering.

Should I Replace My Garage Door?

If you have an older garage door, consider replacing it with a pre-insulated model. Older models are less insulating. A professional can help consider the options. They can replace your garage door or help add an insulating material. We recommend hiring a pro since insulation can add weight to the door, especially a larger one, straining the garage door opener mechanism.

Is Insulation Enough?

Installing or adding insulation has many advantages. However, just because your garage door is well-insulated doesn’t guarantee improved efficiency. Any gaps or cracks around the door will let in air, heat, or cold. To avoid this, add a vinyl seal at the bottom and weatherstripping around the door. Check these often for signs of cracks or breaks and replace the material when necessary.

Contact Mesa Garage Doors to Learn More

We specialize in installing and servicing wood garage doors and providing insulation. Our experienced team can help no matter what you need them for. If you want to improve your wood garage door’s insulation, we’ll help weigh your options and install the material to ensure optimal results. For more information, schedule a free estimate or call (800) 893-1107 today.