How quickly can you fix my motor failure?

In most cases, we can diagnose and repair motor failures the same day. Our trucks are fully stocked with common replacement parts, and our technicians have extensive experience with all major opener brands. For complex issues requiring special parts, we typically complete repairs within 24-48 hours.

What causes motor failure in garage doors?

Motor failures can result from several factors: age and wear (most motors last 10-15 years), power surges, lack of maintenance, or forcing the door through obstructions. Signs of impending failure include unusual noises, slow operation, or intermittent function. Regular maintenance can prevent many motor issues.

Do you offer financing for new traditional door installations?

Yes! We offer flexible financing options for new garage door installations. Qualified customers can enjoy low monthly payments with approved credit. Contact us for details on current promotional rates and to discuss which financing plan works best for your budget.

Insulation R-Value Explained: What Every Homeowner Should Know

January 5, 2026 7 min read Mike Johnson

# Insulation R-Value Explained: What Every Homeowner Should Know

If you're shopping for a new garage door, you've probably seen R-values mentioned in product specifications. But what does this number actually mean, and how much does it matter for your home? The team at Garage Door Everetts helps homeowners navigate these decisions every day, and we're happy to share our expertise.

What is R-Value?

R-value measures thermal resistance.how well a material resists heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation performs. A garage door with R-16 insulation, for example, resists heat transfer twice as well as one with R-8.

The "R" stands for resistance, and the number indicates how many hours it takes for one BTU of heat to pass through one square foot of the material. While that sounds technical, the practical takeaway is simple: higher numbers mean better insulation.

Why Garage Door Insulation Matters

Your garage door is typically the largest moving part of your home, often spanning 16 feet or more. An uninsulated door offers almost no barrier between outside temperatures and your garage. This matters because:

Energy Efficiency

If your garage shares a wall with living space.which most attached garages do.an uninsulated door lets cold (or hot) air affect your home's temperature. This makes your HVAC system work harder, increasing your utility bills year-round.

Studies show that an insulated garage door can reduce energy loss by up to 71% compared to an uninsulated door. Over the life of the door, this can add up to significant savings.

Comfort

An insulated garage stays more comfortable year-round. This matters if you use your garage as a workshop, home gym, or hobby space. Even if you just want to avoid stepping into a freezing car on winter mornings, insulation makes a noticeable difference.

Noise Reduction

Insulated doors are significantly quieter, both in operation and in blocking street noise. The insulation material dampens vibration in the steel panels, while also providing a sound barrier from outside.

Door Strength

Insulated steel doors feature a sandwich construction that makes them more rigid and dent-resistant than single-layer doors. This added durability is especially valuable in homes with active families.

Common R-Value Ranges

Here's what to expect at different R-value levels:

- R-0 to R-4: Single-layer steel or aluminum doors. Minimal insulation benefit. - R-6 to R-9: Polystyrene insulation. Good for mild climates or detached garages. - R-12 to R-18: Polyurethane insulation. Excellent for most applications. - R-18+: Premium insulation for extreme climates or attached garages with living space above.

Polyurethane insulation is denser and more effective per inch than polystyrene, which is why premium doors often use it despite the higher cost.

How to Choose the Right R-Value

Consider these factors when selecting your new garage door:

1. Climate: Hotter and colder climates benefit more from higher R-values 2. Garage Use: Heated garages or living space above requires better insulation 3. Attached vs. Detached: Attached garages affect home heating and cooling more significantly 4. Budget: Higher R-values cost more upfront but may save on energy bills over time 5. Door Size: Larger doors benefit proportionally more from insulation

Our Recommendation

For most homeowners in Eastern North Carolina, we recommend R-12 to R-16 insulated doors. Our climate features hot summers and mild winters, making insulation valuable year-round without requiring the highest ratings designed for extreme climates.

At Garage Door Everetts, we carry a wide range of insulated doors from top manufacturers. We're happy to discuss your specific situation and help you find the right balance of performance and value.

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