St. Louis Glass Doors: As we get ready to head into winter, it’s time to start thinking about how you can keep your house feeling cozy without driving up the energy bills. One of the best ways you can keep your utilities down during the season is to look carefully at your front door. There are lots of ways cold air can get in, making it hard for your heater to keep up. If you want to help your house stay warm, here’s what you need to consider.
How efficient is the glass?
Sure, French doors might pack a ton of style, but they have a tendency to let in inclement weather if you’re not careful. While single-pane glass is perfectly fine for milder climates, double-pane glass is the much better option for St. Louis homes. It adds an extra layer of insulation so you don’t have to worry about your heater working overtime.
Another thing you’ll want to consider is adding a low-e coating to your door’s glass. This will boost your window’s efficiency by preventing heat transfer. You can also add curtains to the inside for an additional barrier.
Lastly, any cracks will significantly decrease the efficiency. While smaller cracks can often be filled, larger ones will require a glass company to replace the panels. The replacement might cost upfront, but we promise it will pay off on your energy bills!
Is the weatherstripping fresh?
Weatherstripping runs along the edge of your door and will ensure there’s a tight seal every time you close it. Over time, the stripping will wear down and let in cold air. You can easily replace it yourself with a rubber strip from a home improvement store, but if you’re looking for something a little sturdier, you may want to consider a metal option.
Are there any gaps around the frame?
No matter how high-quality your door is, regular use will inevitably cause wear and tear. Feel around the frame of your door to see if there’s any cold air coming in. If so, you’ll want to add in extra caulking.
Regular front door maintenance will let you keep your energy bill down this winter. If you need someone to upgrade your door’s glass, we’d love to chat and provide you with a quote. Call St. Louis Glass Works today so you can be prepared for every season!