If you’re looking for an easy home improvement project that provides lasting savings, upgrading an old garage door to a new energy efficient insulated model should be at the top of your list. Standard steel garage doors are notorious draft offenders that allow conditioned air to escape from your garage and home all year long. While an unnoticed energy vampire, garage door replacement is a worthwhile investment that pays for itself over time through lower heating and cooling costs. Best of all, installation is a relatively simple DIY project for most homeowners.
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Consider the Energy Savings Potential
A well-insulated garage door can significantly reduce air leakage and heat transfer compared to an older basic model. Expect yearly savings of at least $100 off winter heating and summer cooling bills, with more savings in colder climates. The R-value insulation rating of an Energy Star qualified door should be at least 12-17 to block drafts effectively.
Choose a Door Style and Material
Before shopping, decide if you want a raised panel, carriage house, or flush panel style aesthetic. Also pick between steel, fiberglass, or wood construction based on your budget and maintenance preferences. Steel holds insulation better but requires painting, while fiberglass and wood are durable and low-maintenance. Consider the size of your existing opening as well.
Get Professional Help with Sizing and Removal
Have a trained installer, like Garage Door Replacement in Franklin, come out to accurately measure for the correct door size and assess removal of your old unit before buying anything. Improper sizing or removal risks further installation issues. They can also advise on opener compatibility and other details.
Purchase a New Prehung Door
Buy a complete prehung insulated garage door packaged with all necessary hardware for installation. This simplifies the job and ensures quality track and hinges manufactured for optimal performance. Be sure the door design meets all local building codes as well.
Prepare Your Workspace
Clear out contents from around the garage door area to allow unobstructed access for both removal and installation. Protect flooring beneath the opening and organize tools for easy access. Shut off power to any openers on the old door as well.
Remove Existing Door Carefully
With help, carefully detach and lower the old garage door and set it aside for disposal later. Number or mark hinges, tracks, cables, and springs to aid reinstallation on the new door in identical positions for optimal function.
Attach New Track and Spring System
Place the new track in same spot as previous, securing to ceiling with lag screws or track bolts provided. Attach springs and cables to the track and door with identical markings per the old setup. Check manuals if unsure.
Hang and Adjust New Door
Position the new prehung door below the track and secure hinges properly onto the framing in matching spots. Lift into place along track and check for even spacing. Adjust springs, rollers, and locks until the door operates smoothly open and closed.
Seal and Caulk Perimeter
Apply high quality weatherstripping foam or brushes around the new door’s perimeter to block air and moisture infiltration points. Caulk any cracks or gaps between trim materials with acrylic or latex caulk for a tight insulation seal.
Reconnect or Upgrade Opener
Hook power cables and safety wires from your existing opener to the new door if compatible. Otherwise, now is a good time to upgrade to a belt drive system for quieter operation and improved energy efficiency when paired with an insulated door from retailers.
Enjoy the Benefits
Not only will your home be more comfortable year-round with reduced drafts, but utility bills should drop noticeably thanks to lower heating and cooling costs from your insulated garage door investment. Check for air sealing and contact a pro for adjustments as needed.
With some elbow grease, most homeowners can tackle a garage door replacement project themselves. Just be sure to carefully remove the old unit, precisely reinstall all components, and seal up thoroughly to fully enjoy maximum comfort and savings from your new insulated door for many trouble-free years.
A business blog writer at the age of 19, Francis is a jack-of-all trades when it comes to writing. He specializes in content creation for businesses and blogs. With years of experience under his belt, he’s able to provide both written and video content that will engage readers and viewers alike!
