Energy-Efficient Entrance Doors: Keeping Your Home Comfortable vs Lower Energy Costs

Fibreglass or vinyl doors (R-value between R5-R7)

Fibreglass and vinyl doors are top performers when it comes to energy efficiency. With a polyurethane-insulated core that is up to six times more efficient than solid wood, they help keep indoor temperatures stable year-round by blocking heat and cold transfer.

Both materials are durable, low-maintenance, and available in many styles. Fibreglass lasts longer and can mimic the look of real wood, while vinyl offers a more affordable option that still provides excellent thermal performance. From smooth modern finishes to realistic woodgrain textures and decorative glass inserts, these doors combine comfort, efficiency, and style.

Steel or aluminium doors (R-value between R5-R6)

Metal doors conduct heat, which makes them more prone to transferring outside temperatures into the home. In extreme weather, you may even feel the temperature change on the inside surface of the door.

Steel and aluminium doors come in many colours, styles, and levels of quality. They are popular with builders because they are generally less expensive than fibreglass or wood. However, not all metal doors are the same. Some offer better insulation than others. Always look for the Energy Star symbol and compare efficiency ratings before buying.

Metal doors were once the most common option on the market. While many are still energy efficient, they do not perform as well as fibreglass doors when it comes to overall insulation.

Wood doors (R-value between R2-R3)

Solid wood doors absorb heat more easily than metal or fibreglass and allow outside temperatures to pass into the home. They are considered the least energy-efficient option, with an R-value typically less than half that of an insulated steel or fibreglass door.

Wood doors are beautiful, but faux wood fibreglass doors offer a similar look, better insulation, and lower cost. They will not rust, fade, warp, or dent, and they do not require staining or painting. If you prefer real wood, choose a thicker solid-core door for improved insulation, as a thicker door increases the R-value.

Glass and glazing

Glass panels can reduce a door’s energy efficiency, but some options help improve insulation. Low-emissivity coatings reflect heat back to its source, keeping interiors cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Thicker glass improves thermal performance, and double or triple glazing adds insulating barriers with low-conductivity gases between the panes. Plastic thermal frame breaks around the glass also reduce temperature transfer from the glass to the door.

Core insulation and door framing

Metal and fibreglass doors usually contain a rigid polyurethane foam core. This core strengthens the door and helps maintain indoor temperatures. Framing materials such as metal, composite, or wood also affect energy performance because each conducts or absorbs heat differently. While framing can influence efficiency, the overall door rating should guide your purchase. Some non-solid wooden doors with foam cores provide better insulation than traditional solid wood doors.

Caulking and foam insulation

Proper installation is critical for energy performance. Installers use caulking and low-expanding foam according to manufacturer instructions to replicate the tested conditions and meet Energy Star specifications. Using inferior materials or improper installation can reduce a door’s energy efficiency.

Weatherstripping and door sweeps

Weatherstripping and door sweeps seal gaps between the door and frame, preventing air leaks and helping retain indoor temperatures. Materials such as plastic, rubber, and thermoset foam cores are effective at creating an airtight seal that improves comfort and reduces energy costs.

U-factor

Measures heat transfer from warm to cold areas. Lower numbers indicate better energy efficiency.

R-value

Measures resistance to heat transfer. Higher numbers mean greater efficiency.

Energy rating

Combines U-factor, solar heat gain, and air leakage. Higher numbers indicate better overall performance.

Coefficient of solar heat gain (SHGC)

Shows how much solar heat passes through a door. Higher numbers mean more heat gain.

Visible transmittance

Indicates how much light passes through glass. Higher numbers mean more light.

Centre-of-glass rating

Measures only the glass portion of the door. Lower numbers indicate better efficiency.

Condensation resistance

Optional rating showing how well the door resists condensation. Higher numbers indicate better performance.

1. Inspect the rough opening for gaps or damage and seal any air leaks before installing the new door.
2. Remove the existing door frame from the rough opening.
3. Place the new pre-hung frame and square it using shims and screws according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
4. Ensure the door swings properly and seals tightly against the jamb.
5. Check the sill or threshold to make sure it is properly insulated and sloped to prevent water infiltration and thermal bridging.
6. Apply a taped vapour barrier to the inside of the frame.
7. Insert expanding foam insulation between the frame and the rough opening, making sure it creates solid contact without pushing the frame out of square.
8. Inspect and seal around any side lights or glass inserts with proper insulation or caulking.
9. Apply coloured caulking to the exterior frame to prevent water leakage.
10. Install interior trim and apply caulking where the wall meets the trim.
11. Verify weatherstripping and door sweeps are properly aligned to eliminate air leaks.
12. Test the door for airtightness by checking for drafts and adjusting seals as needed.