When it comes to designing or upgrading your home, don't underestimate the impact of energy-efficient doors and windows. These smart additions keep your home cozy in winter and cool in summer while saving on energy costs. To help you navigate the options, we've put together a guide to choosing the right energy-efficient door for your home.
What is an Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors?
Energy-efficient doors are specially designed to stop too much heat from escaping or entering your home. This helps you save energy and money on heating and cooling. They're made using materials and techniques that boost insulation and prevent air leaks.
Some key features and components of an energy-efficient door include:
Keeping the Heat In: Insulating Materials
Energy-efficient doors are built with special materials like fiberglass, insulated wood, or composite materials. These materials are not great at transferring heat, which means they help maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
Layers of Protection: Multiple Glazing
If your door has glass panels, it's important to have multiple layers of glass with insulating spaces in between. This setup reduces the transfer of heat through the glass, making the door more energy-efficient.
Blocking Heat Escape: Low-E Coating
Glass doors can have a special coating called Low-E (low emissivity) that reflects heat and prevents it from escaping. This coating makes the door better at keeping your home warm.
Sealing the Deal: Tight Seals
Energy-efficient doors are equipped with high-quality weatherstripping and sealing systems around the edges to minimize air leakage. This prevents drafts and keeps the indoor temperature more stable.
Closing the Gap: Thresholds and Sills
Thresholds and sills should be well-insulated to prevent heat loss through the bottom of the door. Many energy-efficient doors have adjustable thresholds that can be set to the appropriate height to minimize gaps.
Installing for Success: Proper Installation
Correct installation is crucial for maintaining the energy efficiency of a door. Properly installed doors ensure that there are no gaps or air leaks around the frame.
A Seal of Approval: ENERGY STAR Certification
Energy-efficient doors are often certified by programs such as ENERGY STAR, which is a government-backed certification indicating that the door meets specific energy performance criteria.
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