Question:
I am planning to remodel my garage into a playroom for my kids. However, I dont
wish to seal off my garage door for a variety of reasons. What I am wondering,
are insulated garage doors worth a darn? I still plan to try and put some more
insulation and air barriers around the rim of the door. It will not be opening
except in emergency situations
Answer:
Most of the newer good quality, 2", double steel insulated garage doors are
rated in the R-9 - R-12 range. Even in the best of installations, slight
drafts will be noticed around the door, so you plan of sealing this area
sounds like a good idea. Some people build a temporary wall behind the door
to conceal it from the inside. If you decide to go this route, think about
having a service company come out. They can release the spring tension and
remove the horizontal track sections for you. (Or if you putting up a new
door, don't install these components.) Store the spare parts behind the
temp. wall, then when the time comes to convert the area back into a garage,
you'll only have a small service charge to get the door operational again.
I've done this for several customers over the years. (model homes, condo's,
restricted neighborhoods, etc.) Leave at least 18" between the door and the
inside wall. Should the door become damaged later on, it can be
repaired/replaced from the outside without tearing out the temp
