Insulating An Overhead Door

[Anonymous-0]

I'm insulating the 9x7 torsion spring overhead recessed wooden door on my shop with styrofoam. I'd like to cover the foam with 1/8" wood paneling for protection as well as a more finished look. Will the lift system handle the added weight? Obviously I'd have to increase the torsion spring tension.

Thank you,
Glenn FitzGerald

 

[Jim Broughton]

Glenn: Go to your lumber yard and purchase the "smooth-faced" styrofoam; it usually comes either light blue or pink in color.2X8 or 4X8 sheets,whichever is handiest for you to handle. It cuts easily on your table saw with a fine tooth blade. Next, get your local metal shop to make you "Z" moulding, 8 ft. long to run on each section of your door. Paint the styrofoam with LATEX primer (1-side) and glue to your door with liquid nails; screw or nail the light "z" moulding on the top and bottom horizontal edges of your door. Finish the whole thing in a good latex enamel or a regular oil-based enamel to complete the job !! Works like a charm !!
Cheers !! Jim B.

 

[dan hill]

You should make sure that any foam insulation you use is fire resistant.One of my gunsmith books has info on foam insulation being ignited by a hot chip from a metal lathe.

 

[Anonymous-0]

MOST (I say most) of the Styrofoam-type products now days will only sustain combustion while a flame is applied to them. Pull the flame away, and the fire goes out.

Obtain a sample of what you're going to use and test it out.

 

[Anonymous-0]

It is the fumes fron a fire near styrofoam that kill you.

 

[Anonymous-0]

That Blue or Pink stuff is not styrofoam, it
is Polystyrene. It has more insulating value, will
stand up to ground contact, but not weedeaters,
and breaks with a pop when you bend it. It is what
should be used under concrete floors with heat tubes
in them. It is just what you need to insulate the
door.