According to Demand Institute’s 2014 Satisfaction Gap report, increased energy efficiency is the greatest unmet desire of American homeowners. While high-performance windows are known to be key contributors to energy savings, doors can actually provide more insulation.
The problem is, not all energy-efficient door systems are equal. In an industry where “energy efficiency” has become a marketing cliché, choosing the right product for your door replacement project can be tricky. When replacing your patio doors, Renewal by Andersen® of Houston recommends paying attention to these key components:
Multiple Panes
Multiple glazing is usually associated with window design, but it’s a non-negotiable requirement when getting a patio door comprised of more than 50% glass. To meet local energy efficiency requirements, a glazed unit with two panes is the standard.
Spectrally Selective, Low-E Coatings
Considering the large glass area for glazed patio doors, put a premium on spectrally selective, Low-E coatings. Unlike standard Low-E glass, spectrally selective coatings can block more solar heat and ultraviolet (UV) rays while allowing abundant daylighting.
Argon Gas Fill
Argon is the ultimate gas fill choice for most insulated fenestration products because it’s not sensitive to seal failure and doesn’t easily discolor. Krypton may be slightly better at insulating, but argon is significantly less costly. In other words, argon provides a better trade-off between performance and affordability.
Warm-Edge Spacer
Compared with traditional, cold-edge aluminum spacer systems, warm-edge spacers deliver better thermal performance. Stainless steel is one of the best alternatives to aluminum not only because of its superior insulating properties, but also because of its great strength.
Insulative Substrate
Wood remains the most preferred core materials for exterior doors because it’s an excellent insulator. To prevent decay, make sure it’s protected with water-resistant cladding. At Renewal by Andersen of Houston, we cover the wood door panels with either a urethane-based finish or a vinyl sheath to repel moisture effectively.
Improved Weatherstripping
To keep your home draft-free, invest in a patio door system with continuous weatherstripping and interlocking design. In a closed position, these features, along with security locks, can minimize air infiltration.
At Renewal by Andersen of Houston, our glazed patio doors have the unique combination of details for maximum energy efficiency. Learn more about the anatomy of our products and their energy performance ratings during your in-home consultation. Call us at (281) 547-6177, or fill out our contact form to schedule your FREE consultation. We serve clients in Spring, TX, and other nearby areas in Texas.
