So, you want to make your home more eco-friendly? That’s awesome! The vast majority of people choose to focus on the bigger-ticket items such as solar panels, smart thermostats, energy-efficient appliances, and so on. But what if I told you that one of the most easiest and mostly overlooked ways to go green is to simply upgrade your doors?
Now, I know that sounds odd, but it’s true. Those everyday barriers that shelter you from the outside world actually play a huge role in the energy-efficiency of your home. If you have ever felt a draft delicately wafting through your home, or if your AC unity seems to be working overtime in the summer, the likely culprit is an inefficient and/or failing door.
The Big Problem: Leaky Doors
A lot of older homes with older doors will likely have a problem with air seeping in and out, ultimately resulting in an overworked heating and cooling system. This can lead to significantly higher energy bills and a larger carbon footprint, while also shortening the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. That isn’t really the green lifestyle we’re going for, right?
A (Good) Solution: Retrofit an Old Door
The good news is there are plenty of budget-friendly options for making your doors more energy-efficient without having to turn your whole house upside down.
- Weatherstripping – This is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to retrofit an older door to be a little more energy-efficient. There are a variety of thicknesses, colors, and applications styles, all of which are fairly easy to install. Most homeowners find that they can install new weatherstripping in about 20 minutes. Once installed, the difference can usually be felt immediately.
- Door Sweeps – Do you see a noticeable gap where the bottom of your door meets the floor? If so, that is basically an open invitation for the outside air to simply waltz right in. A door sweep (sometimes called a bottom seal) is an easy way to remedy that problem. Plus, door sweeps are relatively cheap and very easy to install. Once installed, the gap should be greatly minimized, ultimately keeping the cold (or hot) air where it belongs—outside.
- Storm Doors – This type of door was largely unknown to me until I visited a friend of mine in the United States, but I am a firm believer in them now. A storm door is basically an extra door that basically acts as an additional shield to both your main door, as well as the inside of your home. Adding a storm door can help greatly reduce heat loss in the winter. Plus, most storm doors come with a screen that can enhance ventilation during the warmer months.
A (Better) Solution: Upgrade to an Eco-Friendly Door
Replacing an older door with a newer, eco-friendly door will cost a little more than retrofitting an old door, but it is usually worth it in the long run
When looking for a new door, you want to look for doors that feature a high R-Value. Just like with insulation, newer doors will have different efficiency ratings. Therefore, you need to find a door with a high insulation value, or ideally one that is ENERGY-STAR certified. Fiberglass and steel doors are fantastic options because they provide excellent insulation, as well as durability.
However, if you really want to for the gold star in eco-friendliness, consider a door made from materials that are sustainable or reclaimed. Some of the more popular options include bamboo, reclaimed-wood, and even composite doors that are made from recycled plastic. The R-values will vary depending on the material, but you really can’t go wrong with any of the options mentioned above.
A lot of newer doors, especially those that might be considered decorative or artisanal, will feature one or more glazing. Having glazing can reduce the overall energy-efficiency of a door, but as long as the glass are manufactured with efficiency in mind, then there won’t be much of a sacrifice. Look for double or triple-pane lass with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings that help prevent heat loss. Plus, a door with glazing will let in a lot of natural light. There are different types of glazing options available such as frosted, half-glazed, clear glass and more. Refer this article to know more about glazing. More light means you won’t have to turn on your lamps as much—another win for energy-efficieny!
The Extra Perks of Upgrading to Eco-Friendly Doors
Besides the obvious benefits of saving energy and reducing your bills, upgrading your doors can also improve your home’s overall comfort. That means no more chilly drafts in the winter or hot spots in the summer. Another often-overlooked benefit is that with better insulation comes better protection from outside noise, so if you live on a busy street, an eco-friendly door can make things a lot quieter.
And let’s not forget about curb appeal. A sleek, modern, eco-friendly door can make a huge difference in how your home looks and feels. It’s like giving your house a little green glow-up!
Final Thoughts
Going green doesn’t always mean making giant, expensive changes. Sometimes, it’s about paying attention to the little things—like the doors you walk through every day. Whether you’re sealing up drafts with weatherstripping or investing in a brand-new energy-efficient door, every step counts toward a more sustainable home.
So, next time you feel that draft or see your energy bill creeping up, take a good look at your doors. They might just be the key to a cozier, greener home. Happy upgrading!
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