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Last updated: 17 Jan 2023

Best Garage Insulations for Temperature Control

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By Old House Journal Review Team
Published 9:20 pm
Show contents
Here Is/Are the Best Garage Insulations of 2023
  • 1 Reach Barrier Garage Insulation
  • 2 NASA TECH Garage Insulation
  • 3 ECTY Garage Insulation
  • 4 Matador Garage Insulation

Do you have a workshop in your garage but struggle to use it due to extreme weather conditions? You can overcome this issue by getting one of the best garage insulation in 2023 available on the market to suit various needs. Insulation is one of the important factors that every garage owner should consider if they want to regulate temperature without necessarily incurring extra costs of heating and cooling systems. 

A well-insulated garage ensures comfort, saves energy, reduces utility bills, and acts as a sound deadener. In addition, your belongings will be well protected from drastic temperature changes, which enhances durability. Garage insulation differs depending on cost, material, and geographical conditions. Here is a well-researched article on the best garage insulation to help you make an informed decision.

Here Is/Are the Best Garage Insulations of 2023

1

Reach Barrier Garage Insulation

– Best Overall
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If you are looking for the ultimate reflective protection kit for your garage that provides the best value for money, this is the perfect option. Built using Bubble Barrier Technology, this 8 by 8-foot garage door insulation kit blocks 95% of heat, helping you save energy and money.

Moreover, you do not need special tools to install it as it comes with pre-cut panels and an easy-to-follow instruction manual. All you need to do is follow the instructions, and you’re good to go!

Pros
  • Comes with eight Bubble insulation panels, a door cleaner, an instruction manual, and permanent adhesive tape for seamless installation
  • The panel includes barrier bubbles that are laminated between reflective polyethylene layers for consistent R values
  • Bubble Barrier technology blocks ninety-five percent radiant heat rays hence saving you money and energy
  • Features pre-cut panels for easy installation
Cons
  • Ideal for only big garages
  • Not suitable for aluminum doors
2

NASA TECH Garage Insulation

– Runner Up
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Have you been looking for the best garage insulation kit for a large garage door without success? This kit will be the perfect fit. It includes foil foam that will provide an air pocket to facilitate R8 value insulation. Thus, it will reduce heat loss in your garage during winter hence saving up on heating costs. Likewise, it will reduce the temperature to provide a comfortable environment in summer.

You do not need to worry about safety when you get this product. It is made from non-carcinogenic material that makes it non-toxic. Also, it is approved by the intl fire codes as the manufacturer prioritizes your safety.

Pros
  • Made from non-carcinogenic material that is approved by the international fire codes for maximum safety
  • Weighs 10.63 pounds, making it lightweight
  • Comes with heavy-duty tape that is suitable for all weather conditions
Cons
  • Foil peels off after some time
  • The instruction manual is not comprehensive
3

ECTY Garage Insulation

– Honorable Mention
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This product is manufactured using polyethylene air bubbles placed between reflective aluminum polyester film, which is non-carcinogenic, non-toxic, and safe to handle. It reflects 97% of heat and emits no more than 3%. Some of the advantages of this garage insulation include ease of installation and maintenance, energy-saving properties, fire resistance, and insect resistance.  

Pros
  • Made from aluminum polyester film for durability
  • Item is lightweight as it weighs 2.2 pounds
  • The material is resistant to humidity and moisture, making it suitable for all weather conditions
  • Can be used in place of a heating and cooling system, thus saving energy
Cons
  • Reflectors split off at the corners
  • Difficult to wrap around a hose
4

Matador Garage Insulation

– Also Consider
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If you are looking for the best garage door insulation to ensure you enjoy working at your garage all year round, this product will be ideal. Since there are no special tools required to install it, just follow the instruction manual, and you will be done in one hour.

The product is made with polystyrene laminate panels that have an R-value of 4.8. This ensures that the garage stays cool in summer and warm in winter. In addition, you will enjoy a comfortable workspace because it reduces the noise levels.

Pros
  • Ideal for pan-style garage doors
  • Comes with a white surface that is attractive and easy to clean
  • Features a 4.8 R-value at 75 degrees Fahrenheit that helps reduce utility bills
Cons
  • Product crumbles if slightly bent during installation
  • Styrofoam is too thick to fit inside door frames

Buying Guide for the Best Garage Insulations

Buying the best garage insulation kits can be difficult with all the different options available. However, you need not worry because we have prepared a detailed buying guide to help you find a suitable product for your needs. Before we get to the factors to consider before making a purchase, let us look at how insulation can add value to your garage.

What Are the Benefits of Garage Insulation?

A garage is used for storing cars and acts as a workshop or as a storage area for items like seasonal tools. However, the garage can become uncomfortable during extreme weather conditions. In summer, the heat might become too much to bear, while in winter, it might be cold, and this is where the best garage insulation comes in handy. Insulating your garage ensures that the flow of heat is balanced to stay cool during summer and warm during summer. It also makes the garage soundproof due to its sound deadener property. Besides, it improves the door strength and prevents it from harsh climatic conditions. Therefore, you will enjoy working in a comfortable environment.

What Are the Types of Garage Insulation?

There are five types of garage insulation available on the market. 

Cellulose 

Cellulose garage insulation is becoming popular worldwide thanks to its environment-friendly characteristics. It is made from recycled newspapers treated with various fire retardants. You will need to use a specific blowing machine to install it on finished garage walls or ceilings. This costly insulation is fire and insect-resistant. However, it requires drywalls and risks settling on the surface after some time.

Spray foam

This type of insulation works by sealing floors, walls, and ceilings against air movement. It is sprayed in the garage to help maintain a constant temperature and reduce the high costs associated with heating and cooling systems.

Rigid foam

Rigid garage insulation boards come in various R-values and thicknesses. The standard 4 foot by 8-foot foam sheets has a thickness that ranges between ½ inch to 4 inches. Polyisocyanurate, the material used to make rigid foam, has the highest R-value ranging between R-6.5 to R-6.8 per inch. 

Fiberglass 

This is the most common type of garage insulation that homeowners prefer because it provides a finished look. It is commonly sold in long precut blankets or batts that fit well in ceiling joists and wall studs. Some companies also manufacture loose-fill that can be blown into the garage attic. It is advisable to use fiberglass wrapped in a plastic film if the ceiling is left open. Some of these garage insulation advantages include ease of handling, framing, and cost-friendly. On the flip side, it is vulnerable to moisture and irritates the eyes, skin, and lungs.

What Factors To Consider While Buying Garage Insulation?

Safety

Safety should be a priority when looking for the best garage insulation. Some insulations are made from non-carcinogenic materials that are safe for you, while others are not. It would be best to check if the product is fire-resistant and insect resistant for best results. Some insulations require proper clothing to install because they can irritate your body. We recommend opting for products that are safe and require no special clothing.

Garage door

You can’t insulate your garage and forget about the door. While some insulations come with pieces meant for the door, others require you to buy separately. If you need to buy a separate insulation kit for the door, you should look for the standard ones meant for metal doors. Make sure to create an air seal on the top and along the sides of the door using the integrated weather-seal strip.

If you realize that the garage door is warping, it is time to insulate it. There are specific insulation kits meant for garage doors constructed using polystyrene characterized by a reflective foil with a high standard finishing. You will have proper temperature control and enjoy a soundproof garage.

Garage roof and floors

Often, we overlook insulating the garage floors and roof. However, this should not be the case. If you have a workshop in the garage or spend a significant amount of time working there, you should consider insulation on the floor. Working on a cold concrete floor is not pleasant. Therefore, use insulation boards on the floor as well as the roofs.

What Is the Cost of Garage Insulation?

The cost of insulating your garage depends on its size because it is calculated per square foot. Also, some other factors come into play when calculating the cost include type of insulation, geography, and additional labor costs. For a semi-detached garage, the price varies between $1500 to $3500 based on the R-value. However, a detached garage can cost $500 on the low and $5500 on the high end.

People Also Asked

Q: How effective is insulating a garage?

A: Insulating your garage ensures that the temperature is controlled during all weather conditions. You get to save on utility bills since insulation provides an energy-efficient alternative to heating and cooling systems. You are also guaranteed the durability of your garage door because this technique provides an extra protective layer.

Q: What should I put over the insulation in my garage?

A: After putting the insulation material on your walls, you should use drywall to cover them. Then, use sand glue to put it in place. Using drywall makes the insulation fire-resistant, which enhances your safety. 

Q: Does garage insulation need to be faced?

A: Insulation facing varies depending on the garage. Some garages already have a layer of insulation, while others do not. Use unfaced insulation in garages with an existing layer of insulation. On the other hand, if the garage does not have a current layer, we recommend faced insulation.

Q: Does it make sense to insulate an unheated garage?

A:  Insulating an unheated garage reduces up to seventy percent heat loss. It is essential to use one of the best garage insulation to keep your garage warm during the cold season without making a hole in your pocket.

Q: How long does garage insulation last?

A: The durability varies depending on factors like levels of humidity and the material used. Insulation exposed to humid conditions is not likely to last for long compared to others. Also, materials have varying lifespans.

Building Supplies Garage
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By Old House Journal Review Team
The Old House Journal Review Team’s product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you restore, repair, update, and decorate your home. The content is created by The Old House Journal Review Team. The Old House Journal editorial staff is not involved. Old House Journal is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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