Choosing the Best Energy Efficient Doors

Why Energy Efficiency Matters in Doors

If you are replacing your front door, there are many factors to consider. Aesthetics certainly come into play, and so do the durability of the new door and the level of security it provides for your home. One of the most important things to consider, however, is the energy efficiency of your door. Why? You may not realize it, but your home’s exterior doors play a major role in the energy efficiency of your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, exterior doors that are not energy efficient, or are poorly insulated, or improperly installed can have a significant adverse effect on energy conservation, wasting energy not only through air leakage, but also through conduction. On the other hand, the right door can keep your home more comfortable, help your heating and cooling systems function more efficiently, and help lower your energy costs, as well as reducing your home’s carbon footprint.

A cat sits outside the door, showcasing its iconic energy-efficient design in San Jose.

Key Features of Energy Efficient Doors

What makes a door energy efficient? The easiest way to ensure the door you choose is energy efficient is to look for an ENERGY STAR® door. But what goes into the kind of energy efficiency that earns this designation?

Energy efficient doors are made of a strong material and an insulating core. A door made of wood, steel or fiberglass, with a core of polyurethane foam insulation, will provide five times as much insulating value as a solid wood door.
Weatherstripping is a crucial component of an energy efficient door. Magnetic strip weatherstripping is a small part of a door, but can significantly improve energy efficiency.
If the door has a window, it must be energy efficient. This means it has at least two layers of glass, LOW-E coating, and/or low-conductivity gases between the panes.
To earn ENERGY STAR® status, the door must meet certain requirements. They must be manufactured by an ENERGY STAR partner and independently tested and certified by the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council). Further, their NFRC ratings have to meet strict energy standards set by the EPA (US Environmental Protection Agency).

Understanding Energy Performance Ratings

What is an NFRC rating? NFRC is not the only organization that certifies energy efficiency, but understanding their ratings will help you better understand how energy efficiency is gauged. First, there is the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, which determines how well a product resists solar radiation. A low solar heat gain is better in the summer, when you want to keep your house cool, but in the winter, a higher solar heat gain can help keep your home interior comfortable. There is also the U-factor, which measures how well a product keeps air inside a room, and the R-factor, which indicates the efficiency of the insulation. Essentially, you want a door that won’t let in the outdoor air and will keep your indoor air from escaping, helping you keep your home comfortable. If you have any trouble understanding the label, ask, because professionals who sell and install doors have a comprehensive understanding about what all these different factors mean.

Identifying Energy Efficient Sliding Glass Doors

So, what if you want a sliding glass door? Is it possible to find glass doors that are energy efficient? Glass doors, especially sliding glass doors, which have a large surface area made of glass, are naturally less efficient than doors made of other materials, but this just means you need to choose your glass doors carefully. When you are looking at doors, discuss your needs with the team at J&M Windows and Glass, and they can help you make the right choice for an energy efficient glass door. To be energy efficient, glass doors need at least two layers of glass, low-E coating, and/or low-conductivity gases between the panes. Any door with glass should meet these requirements, and sliding doors should also have a fixed panel, rather than two panels that slide, because this is better for preventing air loss. The other components of the door, like the frame, insulation, and weatherstripping, should all have the highest possible energy efficiency

Choosing the Right Door Type for Your Climate and Home: Energy Efficient Patio Doors and Exterior Doors

Of course, energy efficiency is not the only factor that goes into choosing exterior doors. You want exterior doors and patio doors that are in keeping with the aesthetics and architectural design of your home, as well. It is also vital to consider your home climate, and the weather conditions that your doors will be facing.

In cold climates, look for a well-insulated door, designed to minimize heat transfer and provide superior thermal resistance.
In hot climates, look for doors with UV-resistant coatings. Fiberglass doors are a good option, because they provide good insulation and won’t warp or fade in extreme heat.
If you live somewhere humid, moisture-resistance and durability will be key. Wood doors are not necessarily a good option in these regions, as they can swell and warp from humidity.
In areas where heavy storms frequently hit, look for impact rated doors, often made from steel or reinforced fiberglass.
In a moderate climate, you have more options. Insulated fiberglass and wood are both materials that are good in warm and cool weather, so as long as you choose doors with energy-efficient cores and weatherstripping, they should hold up well.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

One of the best decisions you can make when it comes to installing a new door is to have a professional install it for you. That way, your door will be hung correctly, which automatically makes it more energy efficient. When it comes to maintaining your doors, make sure you check the manufacturer’s instructions so that you know the specifics of what your door needs. In general, regularly inspecting them for damage, wiping them down, vacuuming tracks and crevices, and replacing worn weatherstripping will keep your doors serviceable for many years to come.

For Energy Efficient Sliding Doors, Patio Doors, Windows, and More, Contact J&M Windows & Glass

For over 40 years, J&M Windows & Glass has been providing quality, reliable services, at reasonable prices, to our customers in San Jose, California. We offer a wide range of glass and mirror services, including new and replacement windows and installation, shower doors and shower door installation, mirrors, skylights, and patio doors. When you work with J&M Windows and Glass, you can expect to work with a friendly, knowledgeable team, providing the highest level of customer service as well as the top products from leading brands. Contact us through our website for more information or to set up a consultation, or visit our showroom to learn more about our products and services.