Differences In Insulation
Differences Between Polystyrene and Polyurethane Garage Door Insulation
When shopping for an insulated garage door, you’ll often come across two common types of insulation:
polystyrene and polyurethane. Both materials offer energy efficiency and noise reduction, but they have significant differences in performance, cost, and application. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you choose the right one for your garage door.
1. Polystyrene Insulation
Polystyrene is similar to the foam found in coffee cups and packaging materials, often referred to as expanded polystyrene (EPS) or extruded polystyrene (XPS) when used in construction.
- Construction: Polystyrene insulation is typically made in rigid foam panels that are inserted into the garage door panels. The foam panels fit between the layers of the door but do not bond directly to the door itself, which can leave some air gaps. It’s also commonly used in double-layer doors (a steel front layer, foam insulation in the middle, and a back steel layer).
- R-Value: The R-value for polystyrene is lower than polyurethane, ranging between R-5 and R-
10. While it still provides decent insulation, it doesn’t perform as well in extreme climates. - Thickness: Polystyrene panels are usually thicker than polyurethane foam to achieve comparable
insulation values. Garage doors insulated with polystyrene tend to be thicker and bulkier. - Cost: Polystyrene insulation is generally more affordable than polyurethane, making it a
popular choice for those looking to improve energy efficiency on a budget. - Durability: While effective, polystyrene insulation is less dense and can compress or degrade
over time if exposed to moisture. It’s not as impact-resistant as polyurethane. - Noise Reduction: Polystyrene does provide noise reduction, but its performance is inferior to
polyurethane because of its lower density.
2. Polyurethane Insulation
Polyurethane is a denser, more advanced insulation material that offers superior performance. It’s a foam-in-place insulation, meaning it is sprayed between the layers of the garage door and expands to fill all gaps, bonding directly to the door’s surface.
- Construction: Polyurethane insulation is applied in a liquid form that expands and adheres to the garage door’s internal structure, creating a stronger, more rigid door. This type of insulation is commonly used in triple-layer doors, where the foam is sandwiched between two layers of steel or aluminum.
- R-Value: Polyurethane insulation offers higher R-values, typically ranging from R-12 to R-18 or more, depending on the thickness and the door model. This makes it much better suited for homes in extreme climates where controlling temperature is critical.
- Thickness: Despite its higher R-value, polyurethane foam is relatively thin, providing excellent insulation without increasing the door’s bulk. This allows manufacturers to create slimmer, sleeker doors with top-tier insulation properties.
- Cost: Polyurethane insulation is more expensive than polystyrene, but the added energy savings, structural integrity, and performance often justify the cost for homeowners looking for long-term benefits.
- Durability: Polyurethane foam strengthens the door structure and is more impact-resistant,
meaning the door can withstand bumps, dents, and general wear and tear better than polystyrene. It’s also more resistant to moisture. - Noise Reduction: Polyurethane’s dense foam construction provides superior noise reduction compared to polystyrene. This is especially beneficial if your garage is adjacent to living spaces or if noise control is a concern.
3. Which One to Choose?
- Climate Considerations: If you live in an area with extreme temperature fluctuations, polyurethane is the better option due to its higher R-value and ability to tightly insulate. In milder climates, polystyrene can be a more cost-effective solution while still offering good insulation.
- Budget: If you’re on a tighter budget but still want a level of insulation, polystyrene is the more affordable choice. For long-term energy savings and performance, polyurethane is worth the investment.
- Door Design: If you’re looking for a slimmer, more modern-looking door without compromising on insulation, polyurethane is the way to go. For those who prefer a more traditional look or don’t mind a slightly bulkier door, polystyrene will work.
- Noise and Durability: Polyurethane is the superior choice for noise reduction and durability. If your garage is used frequently or doubles as a workspace, the extra strength and soundproofing of polyurethane make it an ideal choice.
Conclusion
Both polystyrene and polyurethane offer benefits, but polyurethane excels in insulation performance, durability, and noise reduction. On the other hand, polystyrene is a more budget-friendly option, offering decent insulation and basic noise control. Your choice will depend on your priorities—whether
it’s maximizing energy efficiency and strength or finding an affordable, effective solution for moderate
insulation needs.
