A new garage door may increase your home’s energy efficiency

When we think of ways to increase the energy efficiency of our homes, we often focus on making major changes like installing new heating and cooling systems or replacing all of the windows. While these are definitely useful things that you can do, an important part of the house is often forgotten when you are making these decisions – the garage. 

Whether you realize it or not, a garage can have a major effect the temperature regulation and energy efficiency of your house. A garage door can almost be compared to a giant window that can bring in excessive amounts of cold air and let heat escape if not controlled. 

One of the best things that you can do to improve your home's environmental performance and save money on energy costs is to replace your garage door. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that homeowners in cooler climates purchase insulated doors that are made of composite wool or steel. This will help keep the garage and rooms adjacent to it warm, which will reduce your heating costs. For homes in warmer parts of the country, a perforated garage door may be ideal because it allows ventilation and light inside. 

The internet is a great resource for finding eco-friendly and energy-efficient garage doors, as most manufacturers list their source materials on their website. Once you choose a garage door, but before you schedule an installation appointment, don't forget that its equally important to have a thorough home inspection