October 27, 2017

Can I check the R-value of my garage door?

R-16 Garage door

Wondering whether you’ve been swindled? Whether that supposedly reputable garage door company has in fact pulled the wool over your eyes? Or simply curious to know if your garage door is as insulated as you would like it to be or whether you should invest in a new garage door?

You’re not the only person looking for answers, and luckily for you, there’s a really easy way to check your garage door’s R-value. When manufacturers check the R-value, they need to take a reading from the centre of a door section and then measure the thermal conductivity… But don’t fret! There’s a much easier way to check from home, and you won’t need any fancy equipment. It’s as easy as A‑B‑C!

*Our test is based on an adjoining, insulated, non-heated garage, with a weather-stripped garage door, insulated with polyurethane foam. If you have a detached garage or non-insulated garage, the test may not provide the same results.

  1. On a cold morning, go into your garage and turn on your car. Don’t start the engine yet, just turn the key far enough to see the in-car thermometer. Take note of the temperature.
  2. Start your engine, then drive around town for about 15 minutes.
  3. After about 15 minutes, take note of the temperature displayed on the in‑car thermometer.
The car’s temperature

And that’s all there is to it! If the temperature displayed on the dashboard was 0°C when you were in the garage, and then -21°C after driving around for 15 minutes, you can say that your, properly insulated and weathertight R‑16 garage door keeps your garage at least 20 degrees warmer than the outside temperature.

You don’t even have to wait for the winter to take the test. Try it in the summer, the temperature displayed when you’re in your garage should be cooler than the outside temperature.

Where can I buy an R‑16 garage door?

If you’re shopping for a new garage door, look no further! As garage door experts, we’re the right people to advise you about the range of garage doors and accessories available on the market, and help you make an informed choice. Call us today at 866-436-6777 or request a quotation online. We can even make a house call if you prefer!

While you’re here, why not look through our image gallery or try our Design Centre tool?

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