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Insulated vs. Non-Insulated Garage Doors: Which Should You Choose?

Posted on 11 Apr at 10:36 am

For UK homeowners, choosing between insulated and non-insulated garage doors affects energy efficiency, comfort, and long-term costs.

Some Examples of Garage Doors With Windows

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.
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Chalfont Garage Doors is part of Doormatic Garage Doors. We supply and install high quality garage doors and entrance doors throughout the Southern Counties of England. We care about our client needs, devoting personal attention to each and every customer.

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Chalfont Garage Doors Ltd, Head Office & Showroom, 25 Market Pl, Chalfont St Peter, Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, SL9 9DU
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