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    The ROI of Upgrading to Insulated Commercial Doors in Southern Michigan

    Key Takeaways / Summary:

    • Polyurethane warehouse garage doors provide the best protection against outside weather elements.
    • In Southern Michigan, you can trust Overhead Door of Ann Arbor to meet your insulated commercial doors needs.
    • Offer your employees a more comfortable R-value work environment with properly insulated commercial doors.

    The ROI of Upgrading to Insulated Commercial Doors in Southern Michigan

    By choosing top-tier insulated rolling steel doors, you create an effective thermal shield that separates external weather conditions from your warehouse interior. 

    When it comes to high R-value, energy-efficient commercial doors in Michigan, polyurethane stands out as the top insulation choice.

    Polyurethane vs. Polystyrene: The Science Behind Michigan Commercial Door Insulation

    Polyurethane and polystyrene are common insulation materials used in building garage doors. Polyurethane is a dense foam that bonds to the two steel panels of the door. This aids in the door’s strength and helps provide soundproofing, making it the optimal choice.

    Polystyrene may be more affordable upfront, but it is a rigid foam board that may leave gaps between itself and the door panels, offering less thermal efficiency.

    Understanding the R-Value Factors

    Customers should understand that polyurethane offers an R-value of between R-10 and R-12 to R-17 as compared to polystyrene, which only offers R-4 to R10. In Southern Michigan, where winter freezing weather is not uncommon, a recommended R-value is between R-16 and R-20+ for a heated warehouse. You can do the math.

    Additionally, polyurethane actively repels water, which is great in high-humidity areas. Polystyrene, on the other hand, is a bit more porous, so while it may absorb moisture over time, its thermal efficiency may slowly degrade.

    The “Shiver Factor:” Enhancing Employee Productivity and Retention

    Most Michiganders understand the meaning of “shiver factor.” It’s that feeling when severe wind contributes to an already freezing temperature, taking the state down below sub-zero temperatures. 

    Having the best insulated commercial doors helps your spot stay warm and your workers healthy and productive. That, along with proper weatherstripping and thermal breaks, makes for a short-term return on your investment.

    Stopping Air Infiltration

    Metal garage doors and walls possess high conductivity, often mimicking exterior temperatures and transferring them into your space. This leads to winter cold spots and moisture buildup. Implementing thermal breaks is an effective way to disrupt these conductive routes.

    The expert application of thermal breaks by Overhead Door™ helps dissipate extreme temperatures more rapidly in both warehouse walls and garage doors. This strategic installation ensures your facility retains heat effectively during the winter and remains significantly cooler throughout the summer months.

    Calculate Your Energy Savings: A Commercial Upgrade That Pays for Itself

    Comparing your potential energy savings against the initial cost reveals that polyurethane commercial doors are a superior investment over polystyrene options. These doors typically pay for themselves through reduced energy expenses within just 18 to 24 months. Ultimately, upgrading allows you to significantly cut utility costs while ensuring your staff remains comfortable and productive. 

    Discover why so many clients rely on Overhead Door of Ann Arbor through their own words:

    “Overhead Door provided great service responding to my call for service, they had their technicians out the same day… They were professional and polite. I would highly recommend Overhead Door of Ann Arbor to anyone. I have used them in the past and I will be using them again in the future.” – R.G. Google Reviews

    When you are ready to talk about R-value energy-efficient warehouse doors in Michigan or your garage doors for your home, contact the experts at Overhead Door™. Contact us on our website or give us a call to arrange your appointment today.

    Image credit: Saeedatun / Shutterstock

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