2 DIY Garage Door Repair Tricks to Slash Energy Bills

You don’t need a weatherman to tell you that summers get hot in Elk Grove, like many places in California. And since the garage is attached to the house, a hot boxed garage can put a serious strain on your cooling bill. But there are a few DIY repair tricks you can do to your garage door to improve its efficiency.

Cardboard

Cardboard makes a great insulator. Double cardboard works best but might weigh a bit heavy on a double door. You might need to repair and adjust your door springs to compensate. This is the budget options among budget options. Simply cut and tape cardboard to your garage door. You should go for our alternative option that’s less of a fire hazard if you want a permanent solution. 

Reflective Sheets

One affordable and effective method to insulate your garage door is by using reflective sheets. Here’s how:

Materials Needed:

• Mylar reflective sheets
• Bubble core insulation (optional for added insulation)
• Measuring tape
• Utility knife or scissors

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Measure the Panels: Use a measuring tape to determine the dimensions of each panel on your garage door.
2. Cut Reflective Sheets: Cut the mylar reflective sheets to fit each panel snugly. These reflective sheets are available at most hardware stores and are affordable.
3. Apply Reflective Sheets: Carefully attach the reflective sheets to the garage door panels. Make sure that they cover the entire surface. The reflective surface helps bounce off heat, reducing the heat transfer into the garage.
4. Add Bubble Core Insulation: For enhanced insulation, you can add bubble core insulation behind the reflective sheets. Cut the insulation to match the size of each panel and affix it behind the reflective sheets.
5. Secure Edges: Make sure the edges of the reflective sheets are secured and won’t peel off easily.
6. Enjoy the Benefits: Once installed, the reflective sheets will help minimize heat transfer. They will make your garage more comfortable and potentially reduce your cooling costs.

Remember, while reflective sheets can be an effective and safe DIY solution, ensure you follow safety precautions and guidelines provided with the materials.