When most homeowners think about upgrading their home’s energy efficiency, their focus often turns to replacing old windows. However, did you know that making some strategic changes to your exterior doors could also lead to significant savings on your energy bills each month? Upgrading to energy-efficient exterior doors is a worthwhile investment that will pay dividends over many years.

Much like windows, standard exterior doors tend to be significant sources of air leakage that allow conditioned air to escape your home. By switching to energy-efficient doors sealed with weatherstripping, you can reduce air leaks and prevent money from literally flowing out the door. 

Tight-Sealing for Maximum Insulation

New energy-efficient door designs focus on creating an absolute barrier to air movement. Fiberglass and steel door styles are engineered with dense polyurethane foam insulation in their cores that outperform traditional wood. Optimal R-values minimize heat transfer, keeping interior temperatures stable no matter what the weather is doing outside.

Look for doors certified by the Energy Star program, which requires threshold levels of insulation and weather resistance testing before approval. Many high-performance models also feature weatherstripping and seals built directly into contacting surfaces rather than added as an afterthought. This delivers a tight fit every time the door closes to block drafts.

Maximizing Glass Performance

While glass windows allow natural light into a home, they are also vulnerable areas for heat loss. New Energy Star doors address this with high-tech glass options. Insulated glass units utilize multiple panes of glass separated by an airspace for thermal insulation. Low-E coatings are applied during manufacturing to reflect heat instead of letting it pass through. 

Specifically, ask about the door’s U-factor rating, which measures heat transferred – the lower the number, the better the window insulation. Quality Energy Star products will have a rating of 0.20 or lower. Additionally, improved framing designs add thermal breaks to prevent conduction between interior and exterior materials. Properly selected glass ensures maximum energy efficiency and comfort.

Choosing the Right Style

Not all door types are created equal when it comes to performance. Hinged panel styles tend to hold up better against the elements and gaps compared to sliding variants. French doors require additional attention to stops and seals. Consider your home’s layout, traffic patterns, and the harshness of local climate conditions when choosing which door style best suits your needs.

Always install exterior doors according to manufacturer specifications for weather-tightness. Check that they close properly with no binding or sticking. Adjust latching regularly to maintain a snug, draft-free fit. Seal any remaining air leaks with caulk after installation is complete to maximize the energy savings potential of your investment.

Additional Considerations for Maximum Efficiency

In addition to choosing Energy Star doors, small adjustments and additions can boost savings even more:

– Install storm doors to create an insulating air barrier for non-glass doors exposed to direct sunlight or drafts. 

– Caulk and weatherstrip around the entire perimeter of the door frame to eliminate air leaks at connecting points.

– Opt for programmable thermostats and consider zoning adjustments to better control heating and cooling in high-traffic areas near exterior doors.

– Add window film to existing glass doors and windows. Selective low-E films provide significant temperature regulation without compromising light transmission. 

– Use a door sweep or threshold barrier at the bottom exterior edge to block drafts across the floor. Products are available for all common surfaces.

By carefully selecting energy-efficient doors suited to your home alongside smart supplementary steps, you can achieve optimum thermal comfort while substantially lowering your utility bills each month. Improving an aging building envelope pays off over the long run.

Complementing Window Upgrades 

For true whole-home efficiency, consider upgrading doors and windows together. Replace older single-pane units throughout the house for optimal results. Experienced contractors can advise you on the best approach for your budget and building. Remember that high-performance products qualify for energy efficiency tax credits and utility rebates in many areas, helping to offset some costs.

At Yarrow Sash & Door, we carry a wide selection of Energy Star-rated fibreglass and steel door options that are perfect for any home. Our expert services team can professionally install new doors and replace existing units to ensure proper operation for years of comfort and utility savings. We also offer essential maintenance like weatherstripping replacement to keep older doors performing at their best. 

Contact us today for a free in-home consultation and quote. Let Yarrow help transform your home into an energy-efficient haven through superior exterior door products and installation. Start lowering your monthly bills immediately!