How do energy-efficient doors help with draught prevention?

Energy-efficient doors prevent draughts by sealing gaps, improving insulation, and reducing heat loss. They incorporate features like tight-fitting frames, thermal breaks, and specialised materials to block cold air infiltration. In the UK, draught-proofing doors can save households £40-£45 annually on energy bills, while businesses benefit from reduced heating costs and improved comfort for customers and staff.

Core Features of Energy-Efficient Doors

• Multi-point locking systems: Create an airtight seal by compressing door edges against the frame.
• Thermally broken cores: Insulating materials like polyurethane foam block heat transfer.
• Dual or triple glazing: Reduces heat loss through the glass.
• Weatherstripping: Self-adhesive foam, brush, or rubber seals around frames eliminate small gaps.
• Threshold seals: Adjustable or automatic seals at the door base prevent under-door draughts.

UK-Specific Applications

For Homes

• Period properties: Secondary glazing or discreet brush seals maintain aesthetics while reducing draughts in heritage homes.
• New builds: Compliant with 2023 Part L building regulations requiring improved thermal efficiency.
• Older doors: Retrofit solutions like letterbox covers with brush seals (prevents £10-£15/year in heat loss per doorway).

For Businesses

• Retail spaces: Maintain consistent temperatures to enhance customer comfort.
• Offices: Reduce HVAC strain through effective draught-proofing.
• Hospitality venues: Prevent cold spots near entrance doors during winter.

Advantages vs. Common Mistakes

Pros

• Lower bills: £40+ annual savings for households.
• Increased property value: EPC rating improvements.
• Noise reduction: Sealed doors block external noise.

Mistakes

• Over-sealing: Restricts ventilation, risking condensation (critical in kitchens/bathrooms).
• Ignoring thresholds: Focusing only on sides/top leaves the largest gap unaddressed.
• Choosing aesthetics over function: Thin aluminum doors may look modern but conduct heat.

Recent Developments

• 2023 Boiler Upgrade Scheme: While focused on heat pumps, it reflects the UK’s push for better home efficiency, including door/window upgrades.
• Suppliers like Liniar and Veka UK now offer uPVC doors with 0.8 W/m²K U-values (below the 1.4 W/m²K building regs minimum).

Practical Tips

1. Check for gaps: Hold a candle near closed doors – flickering indicates draughts.
2. Prioritise external doors: Front doors cause the most heat loss due to frequent use.
3. Combine solutions: Use a brush seal + hinge-side weatherstripping for maximum effect.
4. Consider door type:

• Composite doors: Best for insulation (15+ year lifespan).
• uPVC doors: Affordable but prone to warping if poorly installed.
• Timber doors: Require regular maintenance to prevent shrinkage-induced gaps.

For businesses, automatic door closers and air curtains can supplement energy-efficient doors in high-traffic areas.