An average of 300 out of 365 days a year are sunny in Central Oregon. It’s no wonder that homeowners are always looking for ways to keep their homes cool and save on energy bills. One of the best ways to achieve this is with an energy-efficient garage door makeover. In this blog, we’ll explore creative garage door ideas to beat the heat in Central Oregon.
When in Doubt, Opt for Energy Efficiency
The first step to garage door efficiency is finding the right materials—ones that keep heat out and cool air in. By doing so, you’ll reduce the strain on your HVAC system and see those savings add up. Luckily, many stylish and affordable options can give your garage door a much-needed upgrade while keeping you cool all summer.
Garage Door Insulation Options
An insulated garage door acts as a barrier, keeping outdoor elements at bay and maintaining a more stable temperature inside the garage. The most popular and effective insulation materials are polystyrene and polyurethane. Polystyrene doors have a layer of insulation between steel or aluminum panels and come in precut sheets. On the other hand, polyurethane doors have foam insulation injected into the panels and small crevices. They may be a bit pricier but offer a stronger and more durable structure.
Explore Reflective Coatings
Another fantastic way to ensure a consistently cool temperature in your garage is by applying a reflective coating. These coatings work wonders by reflecting sunlight and heat away from your door. By preventing excessive heat absorption, you’ll keep your garage cool even during Oregon’s hottest months. Plus, it’ll help extend the lifespan of your garage door by reducing the effects of UV exposure.
Breathable Solutions for Garage Ventilation
Proper ventilation is key to achieving energy efficiency and overall comfort in your garage. It allows for better airflow, regulating the temperature and preventing your garage from turning into a heat trap. Good ventilation also helps protect your belongings from humidity and the buildup of harmful gasses like carbon monoxide. Ventilation options like windows or ceiling exhaust fans are the most versatile and can complement your home’s unique style. If you’re getting a new garage door this summer, make sure to explore ventilation options for maximum benefits.
Maximize Efficiency with Light Colors
Believe it or not, the color of your garage door also plays a role in energy efficiency. We recommend light-colored doors, like white, beige, or light gray. They have high reflectivity, meaning they reflect heat away from the surface. Not only will they help keep your garage cool, but they also provide more natural light during the day, reducing the need for artificial lighting and saving you even more money. It’s a win-win situation that adds an aesthetically pleasing touch to your home.
When to Choose an Energy-Efficient Garage Door Makeover Vs. a New Door
When deciding how to beat the heat during the summer, it’s important to assess whether an energy-efficient garage door makeover or a new door installation is the best choice.
Use this checklist to determine which is best for your goals:
- Assess the condition: Evaluate the current state of your garage door. Is it structurally sound, free from major damage, and functioning properly? If so, a makeover might be a viable option.
- Insulation and ventilation: Check if your current door has sufficient insulation and ventilation features. If it lacks insulated barriers and exhaust fans, installing these features will provide better heat resistance and energy savings.
- Long-term value: Evaluate your current door’s lifespan and future maintenance needs. If it’s nearing the end of its lifespan (between 20 and 30 years) or requires frequent repairs, investing in a new energy-efficient door might be a wiser-long term investment.
- Budget and customization: Determine your budget and desired customization options. A makeover is typically more cost-effective and can improve the energy efficiency of your existing door. In contrast, a new door installation allows you to choose from a wider range of styles, materials, colors, and features to match your preferences and complement your home’s aesthetic.
By using this checklist, you can make an informed decision on whether to pursue an energy-efficient makeover or opt for a new door installation. Ultimately, the goal is to beat the heat and achieve optimal energy efficiency, enhancing comfort and reducing energy costs for your homes.
Get Your Dream Garage Door Today with Central Oregon Garage Door
No matter what updates you plan to make, your dream garage door is just a step away with Central Oregon Garage Door. With our wide range of energy-efficient options from CHI, Amarr, and Wayne Dalton, you can transform your garage into a space that exceeds your expectations.
Our expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction ensure you’ll find the perfect match for your home, style, and functional needs. Don’t wait any longer to enhance your home’s curb appeal, save on your energy bills, and give your home a modern makeover! Call us at 541-593-5700 or get a free quote today.
