For UK homeowners, choosing between insulated and non-insulated garage doors affects energy efficiency, comfort, and long-term costs.
This guide compares both options to help you decide which best suits your needs.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Insulated Garage Door | Non-Insulated Garage Door |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal Efficiency | High (reduces heat loss) | Low (minimal insulation) |
| Energy Savings | ✅ Lower heating costs | ❌ Higher heat loss |
| Noise Reduction | ✅ Quieter operation | ❌ More noise transfer |
| Durability | ✅ Stronger construction | ❌ Prone to dents |
| Cost | ❌ 20-50% more expensive | ✅ Budget-friendly |
| Best For | Attached garages, workshops, living spaces | Detached garages, storage-only use |
What Is an Insulated Garage Door?
Insulated doors have a layered construction, typically:
- Steel or aluminium outer panels
- Polyurethane or polystyrene foam core (10mm–50mm thickness)
- Thermal seals to prevent drafts
✅ Pros of Insulated Garage Doors
✔ Better temperature control – Keeps garages warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
✔ Energy savings – Reduces heat loss if your garage is attached to your home.
✔ Noise reduction – Ideal if you use the garage as a gym, workshop, or office.
✔ Increased durability – Less prone to warping or denting.
✔ Higher security – Thicker, stronger materials deter break-ins.
❌ Cons of Insulated Garage Doors
✖ More expensive – Typically £200–£800 pricier than non-insulated.
✖ Heavier – May require a stronger automatic opener.
What Is a Non-Insulated Garage Door?
Non-insulated doors are usually made of:
- Single-layer steel, aluminium, or timber
- No foam core
✅ Pros of Non-Insulated Garage Doors
✔ Lower upfront cost – Cheaper for budget-conscious buyers.
✔ Lighter weight – Easier to install and manually operate.
✔ Good for storage-only garages – No need for insulation if not heated.
❌ Cons of Non-Insulated Garage Doors
✖ Poor thermal efficiency – Draughty in winter, hot in summer.
✖ Noise issues – Loud when opening/closing.
✖ Less durable – More prone to dents and damage.
Which Should You Choose? Decision Guide
🔹 Choose an INSULATED Garage Door If:
✅ Your garage is attached to your house (prevents heat loss).
✅ You use the garage as a workshop, gym, or office.
✅ You live in a cold or noisy area (insulation helps).
✅ You want better security and durability.
🔹 Choose a NON-INSULATED Garage Door If:
✅ Your garage is detached and used only for storage.
✅ You’re on a tight budget.
✅ You rarely spend time inside the garage.
Cost Comparison (UK Prices)
| Door Type | Average Cost (Supply & Install) |
|---|---|
| Insulated Steel | £800 – £2,500 |
| Non-Insulated Steel | £500 – £1,500 |
| Insulated Timber | £1,500 – £4,000 |
| Non-Insulated Timber | £1,000 – £2,500 |
💡 Tip: Insulated doors pay off long-term via energy savings if your garage is heated.
Can You Retrofit Insulation?
Yes! If you already have a non-insulated door, consider:
- DIY foam board inserts (£50–£200)
- Professional insulation upgrades (£300–£600)
⚠ Note: Retrofitting is less effective than buying a pre-insulated door.
Final Verdict
- Insulated doors = Best for attached garages, workspaces, and energy-conscious owners.
- Non-insulated doors = Best for detached storage garages and budget buyers.
