Having a home with an energy-efficient door is more important as concerns about climate change and rising energy costs continue to grow. Homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to improve the energy efficiency of their homes, and while windows and insulation often take centre stage in these discussions, one crucial element is often overlooked: doors.
Is your existing door draughty, or does it seem like it won’t close correctly anymore? Read our blog post, “How Do I Know I Need a New Entry Door?”
An energy-efficient door can significantly impact your home’s energy efficiency.
See Forest City Window & Door Ltd door products here.
Read our informative blog post, “How to Choose an Entry Door”
Solid Wood Doors:
Solid wood doors are often considered a classic choice due to their timeless appeal and durability. However, when it comes to energy efficiency, they may not be the most optimal option.
- Wood has relatively poor insulation properties and can expand or contract with changes in temperature and humidity, leading to air leaks.
- Unless adequately insulated, solid wood doors can allow heat transfer, resulting in energy loss.
- To improve their energy efficiency, consider adding weatherstripping or installing a storm door for better insulation. ✅
✅ Fibreglass Doors:
Fiberglass doors are the most popular type of door now installed and for good reason. Their versatility and durability allow for stamping and colouring to take on a realistic wood finish.
- From an energy efficiency standpoint, fibreglass doors offer excellent insulation properties. ✅
- They are engineered to withstand extreme temperatures, providing better thermal performance than solid wood doors. ✅
- Fibreglass doors typically have a polyurethane foam core, further enhancing their insulation capabilities. ✅
- The combination of strength, insulation, and low maintenance requirements make fibreglass doors a highly energy-efficient option. ✅
- Their beautiful looks make them a winner.
Steel Doors:
Steel doors are renowned for their security features; how do they fare regarding energy efficiency?
- Steel doors are generally less efficient than fibreglass ones due to their higher thermal conductivity.
- Steel doors can transfer heat more readily without proper insulation, resulting in energy loss.
- However, modern steel doors often come with foam-insulated cores, significantly improving their energy efficiency. ✅
- When choosing a steel door, ensure it has a high insulation rating and weatherstripping to minimize heat transfer and potential air leaks.
Glass Doors:
Glass doors, such as sliding patio or French doors, add a touch of elegance and create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
- However, the large glass surface area can present energy efficiency challenges.
- Glass is not a good insulator; heat can easily pass through it.
- To mitigate energy loss, consider selecting glass doors with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings. These coatings help reduce heat transfer by reflecting it back into the room, improving energy efficiency. ✅
- Double or triple-pane glass and insulated frames can further enhance the door’s ability to retain heat or cool air. ✅
✅ Storm Doors:
Storm doors are an additional layer of protection installed in front of your exterior door. They provide an extra barrier against the elements and help improve energy efficiency.
- Storm doors typically have insulation features like weatherstripping and Low-E glass panels. ✅
- They create an air pocket between the storm and main doors, acting as an insulator to reduce heat transfer. ✅
- A storm door can enhance your home’s energy efficiency and reduce drafts.
