Best Exterior Doors for Cold Weather in Canada

Did you know that drafty doors might be responsible for as much as 25% heat loss in your home? The Government of Canada confirms that and indicates that heat windows and skylights are also major sources of heat loss in Homes.

And with the legendary winters of Canada, the energy bills could hike up faster than you can imagine. The icy winds, the heavy snowfalls, and plummeting temperatures, all call for one thing – solid, energy-efficient doors to keep the heat in.

It’s more than an entryway to your home. It keeps the chilly winter out and the warm air in. But with the endurance-testing winters, a drafty or poorly insulated door can be a huge problem. Therefore, choosing the best exterior doors in Canada is more than just style – think peace of mind and savings.

Key Takeaways :

• Drafty doors and windows can lead to around 25% heat loss and increase energy bills during winters
• Energy-efficient doors like fiberglass, steel, and wood are good for maintaining indoor heat and minimizing heat loss
• Door features like insulated glass panels, adjustable thresholds, and multi-point locking systems improve overall functionality
• Professional installation can help detect non-optimal sealing and offer long-term protection against drafts
• Regular maintenance is key to maintaining energy efficiency in homes (especially through weatherproofing and seasonal inspections)

How to Identify the Best Exterior Doors for Cold Weather

If you want to save energy during colder months and reduce the HVAC maintenance costs, start with understanding the best exterior door . There’s a wide variety of options out there so start with a few essentials that make the best doors for cold winters like in Canada. What type of materials are there? Do they come with seals and draft-proofing? What are ENERGY STAR® exterior doors?

Insulation Technology

One of the first ways to find the best door is by gauging the insulation efficiency of the chosen door. A higher level and quality of insulation will lead to a more energy-efficient door. For example, advanced materials like polyurethane foam cores have great thermal resistance to reduce heat transfer.

The R-value will be a great tool when choosing the right door material too. It measures the thermal resistance, which means that a higher R-value refers to better insulation. So, options like fiberglass have R-values of 5 and 6. However, insulated steel doors usually have R-values around 4 to 5.

Weather Sealing and Draft Prevention

Make sure the doors you’re considering come with premium weatherstripping and compression seals. Also, look for features like threshold sweeps because a well-sealed door is the first line of defense against cold drafts. Here are a few tips that will help you spot poor seals:

• Clear and visible gaps between the door and the frame
• Can feel drafts when running your hand along the edges of the door
• Close inspection of weatherstripping

Energy Efficiency Standards

This is the “standard” against which you check how reliable your investment is against the harsh winters. If a door has ENERGY STAR® certification, it means superior energy performance that is highly suitable for different climates.

Such a certification means that a door – or even a window – can minimize heat loss during cold winters. It also tells us how well the product might reduce cooling costs during summer by preventing air leaks. On the other hand, you need to check U-factor ratings as well.

It’s a rating that tells how well a product is insulated. For instance, a U-factor of 0.25 or lower is good for northern regions of Canada. For temperate and more variable temperatures, ratings like 0.30 or a bit higher might work. So, check for authentic labels and certifications.

Here’s what our expert, Tony , has to say:

Comparing Door Materials: Which Is Best for Winters?

The next crucial role factor you should consider is the type of door material to go for. For instance, if you go for hollow-core doors, the overall insulation rating might be lower than doors made of solid-core materials. Why does it matter? Well, the door material affects the following characteristics:

• Insulation
• Durability
• Resistance

With that said, there’s a range of materials out there. And, each type comes with varying pros and cons that you should consider to make an informed decision.

Fibreglass Doors

They are perhaps the best exterior doors for cold weather in Canada because of their superior insulation. They have advanced materials like foam cores which reduce heat transfer and hence, energy loss. Plus, they are resistant to cracking, rotting, and warping which also makes them a lasting option.

Fiberglass exterior doors also stand strong against dents and scratches. That adds points to the aesthetic value of the product. Since they can withstand severe winters and high moisture levels, they are suitable for regions with fluctuating temperatures.

Steel Doors

They are one of the most common options because of their strength and affordability. They are also a reliable choice for homeowners thanks to their strong insulation properties and long-lasting durability. These doors can withstand the wear and tear of extreme temperatures, especially in winter.

In fact, they are sturdy against common physical abuse that home exteriors have to endure during harsh weather conditions. But, they easily get dented or scratched – along with rust being a common nuisance – without proper maintenance. However, you can get high-quality coating and finishes to help them last.

Wood Doors

You can also go for wood doors if you want to lean on the more “aesthetic” side. They are beautiful and add an elegant touch to the house decor, depending on the design and style. However, they can warp and crack in extreme temperatures.

This is primarily an issue without regular upkeep like sealing and refinishing. On the other hand, they offer greater customization. With their timeless appeal, you can go for sophisticated and classic door designs. If you live somewhere where cold climate isn’t a big issue, wood doors might work best.

Here’s a quick overview of our top picks for door materials to keep you warm and worry-free during winter:

Features That Enhance Performance in Cold Weather

Are you considering one of the materials mentioned above? Then the next consideration is in the space of “features” – i.e., the features you should look for in your chosen door type. Does it have multi-point locking? Does it have glass panels suited for the job? Some of the features also add to the overall safety and security of your house.

Multi-Point Locking Systems

These systems are good for increasing the overall security and performance. They work by locking at multiple points along the door’s edge. This makes drafts less likely and also adds an extra layer of safety against home intrusions.

Insulated Glass Panels

If you go for doors with glass, go for ones that have insulated glass panels. They offer better performance, particularly the double and triple-glazing panels which have a strong thermal resistance. Hence, lower heat loss. Plus, there are options with Low-E coatings that curb UV damage and improve heat retention.

Installation: Why Professional Installation Matters

You choose the right door type, the right material, and the right features, so what’s next? It is time to consider the installation of your exterior doors. Even with all the right things in place, poor installation will only contribute negatively to the energy efficiency of your house.

There can be gaps and misalignments due to poor installation. That automatically translates to poor insulation capabilities as drafts and moisture issues become a common problem. And don’t forget, a poorly held door is a security risk.

With professional installation, you can prevent these issues while guaranteeing long-term safety and security. An experienced and knowledgeable professional from Canadian Choice will help you align and install the door perfectly so you can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that heat loss is an issue of the past.

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Maintenance Tips to Maximise Longevity

Even when you install the best winter door, with premium-quality installation and professional assistance, nothing beats regular maintenance. Something even as simple as seasonable inspections or everyday cleaning can go a long way in sustaining functionality, whether it’s single or double exterior doors in Canada.

Seasonal Inspections

Look for gaps and wear on your seals regularly, along with whether there’s condensation around glass inserts. If that’s a hassle, make sure you do it every season to notice any issues early on. This will help you replace damaged weatherstripping or adjust the seals to prevent drafts.

Cleaning and Lubrication

Cleaning the door, and lubricating components like hinges and locks go a long way. It not only ensures lasting performance but also makes doors a ‘smooth operation’ because we all know how uncomfortable those creaky doors can be. But make sure you’re using mild cleaners or something that’s optimal for your door.

Regular Weatherproofing

If the weather strips and seals have worn out due to age, make sure you replace them on time. In fact, consider adding a protective layer, like a modern coating, to increase their performance for weatherproof exterior doors.

Why Choose Canadian Choice for Your Exterior Doors

Are you looking for the right contractor or company to get the best exterior doors in Canada for cold weather? One way to know is by checking if the company offers you custom door options and that too, through the top-rated brands.

By choosing energy-efficient doors with the help of our experts, you are investing in the security and comfort of your home. Here, we offer superior insulation for custom-built doors. And with that, we offer reliable warranties with excellent after-sales support.

So, ready to improve your home’s exterior while becoming energy efficient? Choose Canadian Choice Windows & Doors today, and get professional installation today!

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FAQs

What Is the Most Energy-Efficient Material for an Exterior Door in Canada?

Fiberglass doors might be the most efficient when it comes to exterior doors here in the freezing winters of Canada. That’s because they have foam cores that offer superior insulation to keep homes and individual spaces warm.

Are Steel Doors Good for Winter?

Yes, steel doors are durable and they offer solid thermal performance too. However, that depends on the quality of the insulation. Moreover, steel doors are also budget-friendly and add to the overall security of your house exterior.

How Often Should I Maintain My Exterior Door?

Regular maintenance is what we recommend to our clients and locals here in Canada. The prime time would be before the winter season. So, you should be checking for drafts, inspecting weatherstripping, and making sure the door surface is clean and in top shape.

Can I Install An Exterior Door Myself, or Should I Hire a Professional?

DIY installation does seem tempting, but it’s recommended to hire a professional to do it for you. If you don’t have prior experience or relevant knowledge, it will be difficult to get proper sealing and alignment. That’s something professionals can guarantee and also ensure tight seals to prevent drafts and moisture build-up.

How Do I Know If My Exterior Door Is Properly Insulated?

Check for the door’s R-value (thermal resistance) to know if it is properly insulated or not. You can also check for any visible drafts around the frames. If you also find signs of condensation, it is poorly insulated. A good door, with a high R-value, will have proper weatherstripping and airtight seals for the best insulation.