Windows contained in doors are less energy-efficient than solid options; whether they are french doors, patio doors, or doors containing a small peek-through window. Newer doors with glass use the same technologies as energy-efficient windows, such as:
- solar-control (low-emissivity) coatings
- double panes with inert gas fill
- tinted glass
If you are shopping for a new door, look for those rated highly by Energy Star, or the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council), both of which provide energy-efficiency labeling on doors and windows.
What if you adhered to the sound ecological maxim that the best form of recycling is reuse and found some beautiful old doors you want to install? Or perhaps you like the doors on your house just fine, apart from how drafty they are? In these cases, or if your new door has a great deal of glass in it, you will want to both weatherstrip your door carefully, and possibly install a storm door to create a second insulating barrier.
A few benefits of weatherstripping your doors or installing a storm door:
- By installing a storm door you can increase the energy efficiency of your current door.
- Once a door is weatherstripped it can reduce noises from outside.
- Through a few simple steps and minor costs you can reduce the cooling and heating costs of your home.
