When most homeowners think about improving energy efficiency, they picture attic insulation, upgraded windows, or high-efficiency furnaces. But one of the most overlooked—and cost-effective—ways to boost your home’s thermal performance is by upgrading your exterior door.
In Alberta’s harsh climate, where winter temperatures can dip well below freezing, even a small draft around your front or back door can have a big impact on your energy bills. If your door is old, poorly insulated, or no longer seals properly, it may be costing you hundreds of dollars a year in wasted energy.
In this article, we’ll break down how a new exterior door can help you lower heating and cooling costs, increase comfort, and reduce your home’s environmental footprint.
Why Your Exterior Door Matters for Energy Efficiency
Your door acts as both a physical and thermal barrier. When it fails in either role—due to wear, poor materials, or bad installation—it lets conditioned air escape and outside air creep in. Over time, this adds stress to your HVAC system and inflates your utility costs.
Here’s how a new door makes a difference:
1. Improved Insulation
Modern steel and fiberglass doors are built with insulated cores—usually polyurethane foam—which act as a thermal buffer between the inside and outside of your home. Compared to older wood or hollow-core models, these newer doors provide significantly better heat retention.
2. Better Seals and Weatherstripping
Even a high-quality door is only as good as the seals around it. Newer doors are installed with updated weatherstripping that prevents drafts and blocks moisture. A tight seal means fewer cold spots in your hallway or mudroom and lower heating bills in winter.
3. ENERGY STAR® Certified Performance
Many new entry doors are ENERGY STAR® rated, which means they’ve been tested for thermal performance in Canadian climates. Choosing a certified product gives you peace of mind that your door meets national standards for energy efficiency—especially important in Alberta’s extreme cold.
Signs Your Current Door Is Hurting Your Energy Efficiency
Not sure whether it’s time to upgrade? Here are some common red flags that your exterior door is underperforming:
- You feel a draft when standing near the door
- Visible gaps between the frame and the door
- Moisture, condensation, or frost forms on the inside
- Door is warped or no longer closes properly
- Rising heating or cooling bills without another clear cause
- The door feels cold to the touch in winter
If you’ve noticed one or more of these issues, it’s a strong sign that replacing your door could lead to real energy savings.
Best Exterior Door Materials for Energy Efficiency
Fiberglass Doors
Fiberglass doors offer excellent insulation, resist warping and cracking, and can be finished to resemble real wood. They’re also low maintenance and perform well in Alberta’s fluctuating temperatures.
- R-Value (thermal resistance): 5–7
- Pros: High insulation, weather-resistant, customizable
- Best for: Front entry doors, garden doors
Steel Doors
Steel doors are durable, affordable, and often filled with insulating foam. They’re also harder to break into, making them ideal for security-conscious homeowners.
- R-Value: 5–6
- Pros: Strong, cost-effective, energy-efficient
- Best for: Front or back entries, garage access doors
Wood Doors
While visually appealing, solid wood doors are not as energy-efficient and require frequent maintenance to withstand Alberta’s dry winters and humid summers.
- R-Value: 2–3
- Pros: Aesthetic appeal
- Cons: Prone to warping and less efficient
- Best for: Covered entries or homes with aesthetic priorities
Door Features That Boost Efficiency Even Further
If you’re investing in a new exterior door, consider these add-ons for maximum performance:
- Low-E Glass Inserts: Reflect heat while still allowing light in
- Multi-point locking systems: Provide tighter seals and added security
- Adjustable Thresholds: Help maintain a perfect seal over time
- Magnetic Weatherstripping: Automatically seals gaps when the door closes
How Much Energy Can You Save?
While savings depend on your home and the door you choose, homeowners who replace an old, drafty entry door with a new ENERGY STAR® certified model can expect:
- Up to 10-15% lower heating and cooling bills
- Improved indoor comfort (especially near entryways)
- A higher resale value thanks to better energy performance
Over time, the door practically pays for itself through reduced energy costs and maintenance.
Why Choose Canglow Windows & Doors for Your Replacement?
At Canglow, we understand the unique needs of Alberta homeowners. That’s why we offer a wide selection of energy-efficient fiberglass and steel doors, designed specifically for our climate and built to last.
✔ ENERGY STAR® certified
✔ 10-year installation warranty
✔ Factory-direct pricing
✔ In-house manufacturing
✔ Custom options for size, colour, and glass
Whether you’re in Edmonton, Fort McMurray, Red Deer, or a nearby community, our expert installers can help you find the perfect door to keep your home cozy and efficient year-round.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your exterior door may seem like a small step, but it can make a big difference in your home’s energy performance, comfort, and style. By choosing the right material, ensuring proper installation, and selecting energy-smart features, you’ll enjoy lower bills and a more comfortable home for years to come.
Thinking about replacing your front or back door? Contact Canglow Windows & Doors today for a free consultation and quote. Let us help you find a door that’s built for Alberta—and built to save.
