Replacement Window and Door Materials

One-third of indoor heating is lost through doors and windows. For replacement of old leaky doors, the new material of choice has a steel skin with polyurethane foam insulation core. These doors typically come with a magnetic strip for weatherstripping. If properly installed, the door won’t need further weatherproofing. Other materials work well, too – just pay attention to the R-value, or measure of heat loss. Steel and fiberglass entry doors usually rank at R-5 or R-6. If you’re after a wood door, opt for FSC-certified or reclaimed wood. Previously harvested wood is re-milled for depths of color and attractiveness that newer, quickly harvested trees simply cannot match.

It’s been proven that recent advancements in window engineering equal dollars saved on energy bills. To ensure you’re getting the most out of your upgrade, look for these green features: multiple glazing layers, low-emissivity coatings, Green Seal, FSC and/or Energy Star certification, use of recycled materials and a low U-value, which measures heat escape. U-values of 0.25 or less (on a scale of 0.20 to 1.20) are important for wood windows, but higher values are acceptable for fiberglass, certified-wood or recycled-content materials. You should also think about the source of wood for window frames. Where does it come from? Make sure it’s FSC-approved.

The smart door & window materials below demonstrate responsible manufacture and maximum energy efficiency.

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