A poorly insulated door can account for up to 15% of a home's heat loss. While they're often overlooked in energy-efficiency home upgrades, doors are essential to maintaining a comfortable indoor environment and keeping energy costs under control.
From keeping warm air in during the winter to sealing in cool air during the summer, doors are a key part of your home's energy-saving strategy. Having energy efficient exterior doors helps reduce heat transfer, stabilizes indoor temperatures, and eases the strain on your heating and cooling systems.
By choosing the right materials, proper design, and ongoing maintenance, you can significantly boost the performance of your doors — and your overall energy savings.
At SuperiorPRO, we understand the value of a well-insulated home. Let our team help you upgrade to an energy-efficient exterior door installation that delivers year-round comfort and savings. Contact us today for a free consultation!
Consider Energy Performance Ratings
When selecting an insulated door, start by reviewing its energy performance ratings in relation to your local climate and your home's design to tailor your doors for your specific needs. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends looking for the ENERGY STAR® label, which helps identify products that meet energy-efficiency standards for your region.
Another helpful tool is the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label, which allows you to compare doors based on two key ratings:
- U-Factor: Measures how well the door retains heat. A lower U-factor indicates better insulation while higher U-factors are worse.
- Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Measures how much solar heat the door allows inside. In warmer climates, look for a low SHGC to block heat. In colder climates, a higher SHGC can help bring in warmth.
What Makes a Door Energy-Efficient?
Exterior insulated doors are specially engineered to reduce the transfer of heat between the inside and outside of your home. By minimizing heat loss in the winter and blocking heat gain in the summer, these doors help maintain a consistent indoor temperature year-round.
Energy efficient exterior doors typically feature insulating core materials, energy-efficient glass (if applicable), and tight, weather-resistant seals which all work together to improve thermal performance and reduce energy use.
Key elements that affect door energy efficiency
Material
The main element of an energy efficient door is the material it's made from. Not all materials insulate equally, so choosing the right one can make a significant difference in your home's comfort and energy usage.
While wood doors offer timeless beauty and charm, they typically lack the same level of insulation unless specially treated or upgraded. Fiberglass and steel doors with insulated cores offer excellent thermal resistance, outperforming traditional wood doors. Fiberglass is a standout choice for its combination of durability, low maintenance, and energy efficiency. Steel doors provide added strength and security while also delivering solid insulation when paired with an insulated core.
For maximum efficiency, look for doors with foam-filled cores, thermal breaks, and energy-efficient framing materials. These features help prevent heat transfer and reduce energy loss, making your home more sustainable and lowering your utility bills over time.
Glass and glazed features
Doors with glass inserts can still be energy-efficient when designed properly. Look for double- or triple-pane glass with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings to reduce heat transfer. Choosing decorative insulated glass or minimizing the size of glass panels can improve thermal performance without sacrificing style.
Quality sealing
Air leaks and drafts around the door frame can significantly reduce efficiency. High-quality weatherstripping and seals from materials like silicone or rubber help block air infiltration. Regular checks and maintenance will keep these seals performing well over time.
Professional installation
Even the best door won't perform efficiently if it's installed incorrectly. Proper installation ensures the door fits tightly, is correctly aligned, and is securely fastened — all of which are vital for preventing energy loss and maximizing performance.
Different Types of Energy-Efficient Doors
When it comes to choosing the best exterior insulated doors for your home, there are a few options to consider. Whether it's for a patio door, storm door, garden door, or entry door, our team at SuperiorPRO has you covered.
Fiberglass Doors
Fiberglass doors are a top choice for energy efficiency due to their lightweight and durable nature. They provide excellent insulation and are often crafted to replicate the rich look of natural wood, blending performance with visual appeal, while being resistant to warping.
Steel Doors
Steel doors are valued for their strength, security, and longevity. Many models feature a foam-insulated core that enhances thermal performance and insulation. They offer a durable, low-maintenance, and budget-friendly solution for homeowners focused on energy savings.
Wood-Clad Doors
Wood-clad doors offer a great balance of aesthetics and energy performance. They provide the charm of traditional wood without sacrificing efficiency.
Glazed Doors
Perfect for those who love natural light, glazed doors feature glass panels designed for energy efficiency. Options with double or triple panes and low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings help retain indoor temperatures while still allowing sunlight to brighten your space.
Insulate and Improve Your Home's Energy Efficiency Today
At SuperiorPRO, our team of experienced professionals is ready to help you install your new energy efficient exterior doors. Enjoy year-round comfort, lower energy bills, and a reduced carbon footprint while enhancing the look and performance of your home.
Don't wait to start saving — call us today for your free consultation!