Home > The Ultimate Guide To Energy Efficient Door Installation
Your front door is one of the first impressions of your home. But did you know it could be the cause of higher energy bills? Energy-efficient doors are a great investment for homeowners, as they not only help reduce energy consumption and costs, but also increase the value of your home. One of the main contributors to energy loss and discomfort in a home is doors. Even when doors are closed, they can let in heat during summers and allow heat to escape during winters. Thus, it’s essential to have energy-efficient doors installed, which provide maximum insulation for your home. This blog post will delve deeper into the significance of energy efficiency, and how it can benefit you as a homeowner.
Choosing the right doors that have maximum energy efficiency can be overwhelming. However, there are several key characteristics to consider. Firstly, the material of your door is an important factor. Materials like fiberglass, insulated steel or wood, or vinyl, are much more energy-efficient than others due to their insulation capabilities. Keep a look out for doors that are ENERGY STAR certified, which means they are approved as energy efficient. If the door has any glass on it, it is important to ensure the glass has multiple layers to keep the heat in. Another important factor is the seal on the door. When installing the door, make sure you have a tight sealing system to reduce any leaking of air.
There are many benefits of installing energy-efficient doors, beyond your comfort level. Firstly, your energy bills will be lower, due to a decrease in temperature change. You will see a huge immediate difference in your bills right when you replace your doors with energy-efficient ones. You also will reduce your carbon footprint, which helps the environment. In addition to these benefits, by replacing your door, you will improve your home’s value and curb appeal by having a brand-new door.
Before installing your new energy-efficient door, it is important to consider the following factors. Firstly, you should assess your current door’s efficiency. You can determine this by measuring R-values and U-values. The R-value indicates how insulated the door is, while the U-value is its ability to transmit heat. You can calculate the R and U-values yourself or hire a professional to assess. To learn more about window/door energy efficiency ratings, read June’s blog here [link]. Next, once you assess your current door to determine if you need to replace it, choose a door material that offers energy efficiency, while fitting your budget and home’s aesthetic. Make sure you measure for a proper fit and tight seal to avoid any energy loss.
If you decide to install your new door yourself, make sure you have all the proper materials, including a door frame, galvanized nails, screws and a screwdriver, door hinges, mallet and hammer, spare wood, level, and saw. However, it is easy to make mistakes when installing, which can affect the energy-efficiency of your door. For example, improper measurements can lead to air leakage, so it is important to measure properly to get a tight seal. Make sure you have sufficient weather stripping or sealant as well, which fills the cracks and gaps. Lastly, it is important to align the door properly. Though it is possible to install a door yourself, it is recommended to hire a professional to make sure you get the most energy efficiency possible.
After you have installed your new door, whether DIY or by a pro, it is important to check in periodically to maintain energy efficiency. It is recommended to regularly inspect and replace the weather stripping that you or the professional installed, check and maintain the door’s seal, lubricate hinges and locks to ensure proper closure and perform seasonal checks and adjustments.
Though you can install energy-efficient doors yourself, it is recommended to hire a professional to get the best insulation possible. When searching for an installer, prioritize certifications, experience, and customer reviews. Luckily, APCO has all the above! APCO can help make your door installation process smooth and stress-free. Our team of experts is committed to helping you find the perfect doors for your home. From the initial consultation to the final installation, we will guide you every step of the way to ensure that your new doors look great and offer maximum energy efficiency for your home. With our extensive knowledge and experience, we can help you choose from a wide range of door options to find the perfect fit for your style and budget. Trust APCO for all your door replacement and installation needs. Contact us today for a FREE assessment and to explore energy-efficient, secure, and stylish options for your home.
For more information about our door installations or to get started on a new project, call us at 614-224-2345 or contact us online to get in touch with our specialists!
The Architectural Products Company
The Architectural Products Company