Energy Efficiency Starts at the Door: Upgrade for Better Insulation
Jul 26, 2024As a homeowner, improving the thermal performance of your home is essential to maintaining comfort and reducing energy bills. If you suspect your old and inefficient exterior doors are contributing to energy loss, it might be time for an upgrade.
The Impact of Old & Poorly Insulated Doors on Energy Efficiency
Old and poorly insulated entry and patio doors can significantly affect your home’s energy efficiency. These doors often have gaps, cracks, and outdated materials that allow drafts to enter and conditioned air to escape. This can lead to higher heating and cooling costs as your HVAC system works harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. In addition, poorly insulated doors can create uncomfortable cold spots near entryways, reducing overall indoor comfort.
Benefits of Modern Entry Doors
Modern entry doors, particularly those made from fiberglass and steel, offer superior insulation and energy efficiency. Here are some of the benefits of upgrading to these materials:
- Fiberglass entry doors are exceptionally durable, resist warping, cracking, and rotting, and provide excellent insulation. They are designed to mimic the appearance of wood without the maintenance hassles.
- Steel entry doors are known for their strength and security while also offering impressive energy efficiency. They are filled with high-density foam insulation that helps reduce drafts and heat transfer.
- Modern entry doors come with advanced weatherstripping that seals gaps effectively, preventing air leakage.
- Enhanced sealing mechanisms ensure a tight fit, further reducing energy loss.
Both fiberglass and steel doors outperform wood doors in terms of durability, maintenance, and energy efficiency. While wood doors may be aesthetically pleasing, they are prone to warping and cracking, which can compromise their insulation properties over time.
High-Performance Patio Doors
Upgrading to high-performance patio doors can also enhance your home’s energy efficiency. Modern sliding and French patio doors come with several thermal upgrades that help minimize heat transfer and drafts, including:
- Multi-pane glass – Double or triple-pane glass provides better insulation than single-pane glass and can reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.
- Insulated frames – Frames made from materials like vinyl or fiberglass are designed to provide better thermal insulation than traditional aluminum frames.
- Low-E glass coatings – Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings on glass reflect heat into your home during winter and keep it out during summer.
Added Thermal Benefits of Storm Doors
Adding a storm door to your front entryway can provide additional thermal benefits. Storm doors act as a barrier against drafts and extreme weather, creating an extra layer of insulation. They also help reduce air leakage around your main entry door and protect it from harsh weather conditions, extending its lifespan and enhancing energy efficiency.
Energy-Efficient Doors from Rochester Windows & Doors
At Rochester Windows & Doors, we offer a wide selection of high-performance, energy-efficient doors for residents of Rochester, NY, and nearby areas. Our doors are designed to provide superior insulation, reduce energy loss, and enhance the overall comfort of your home. Whether you need entry doors, patio doors, or storm doors, we have the perfect solution to meet your needs.
Contact Us for More Information
Upgrade to energy-efficient doors with Rochester Windows & Doors and start enjoying better insulation and energy savings. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our high-performance door options. Our specialists are ready to help you choose the best doors for your home and provide a no-obligation estimate.