When you think about energy loss in your home, your roof or windows might come to mind first. But there’s another weak spot that often gets overlooked – your exterior doors.
In the summer, hot air outside puts your cooling system to the test. If your doors aren’t properly sealed or insulated, they can act like open invitations for that heat to sneak in, and for your hard-earned cool air to leak out.
At MUNZ Roofing, we help homeowners throughout Bucks County improve their home’s energy efficiency. Here are three common ways your exterior doors could cost you money during the summer, and how to fix them before your next utility bill shows up.
1. Air Leaks Around the Frame
One of the most common issues is air leakage around the perimeter of the door. Over time, weather stripping wears out, door frames shift, and gaps begin to form, even if they’re too small to see.
In summer, this means:
- Hot, humid air enters your home
- Cool air from your AC escapes
- Your system has to work harder to maintain the temperature
The result? Higher energy bills and reduced comfort, especially near entryways.
How to fix it:
- Check for drafts by holding your hand around the edges of the door
- Replace or upgrade worn weather stripping
- Consider a professional door inspection if you suspect shifting or settling around the frame
2. Poor Door Insulation or Material
Not all doors are created equal. Older wood doors or basic builder-grade models often lack proper insulation. If your door feels hot from the inside, it’s likely to conduct outdoor heat into your home – raising the indoor temperature and your energy costs.
Insulated fiberglass or steel doors with solid cores are much better at keeping summer heat out and cool air in. Energy-efficient doors are also less prone to warping, which can cause new gaps to form over time.
How to fix it:
- If your door is over 15 years old, consider upgrading to an insulated energy-efficient model
- Look for ENERGY STAR® rated doors that meet strict thermal performance standards
- Don’t forget the storm door. A properly installed one adds another layer of protection
3. Gaps or Cracks at the Threshold
The threshold, where your door meets the floor, is another common place for energy loss. You might not notice the gap visually, but if you feel warm air or see sunlight under the door, it’s likely costing you money.
Even a small space at the bottom can:
- Let heat and allergens into your home
- Create uneven cooling between rooms
- Allow insects or moisture to sneak inside
How to fix it:
- Check the condition of your door sweep or bottom seal
- Replace damaged or missing thresholds
- Have a professional adjust the door to create a tighter fit
Bonus Tip: Frequent Use = More Impact
During summer, we tend to use our doors more – backyard barbecues, quick runs to the garage, letting pets in and out. Every time the door opens, your AC must compensate for the temperature change.
Making sure your doors seal properly reduces the impact of every open-and-close moment, keeping your system from cycling too frequently and driving up your bill.
When to Call a Pro
If you’ve checked for drafts, updated weather stripping, and still feel your cooling costs are too high, your doors might be the hidden culprit. At MUNZ, we can inspect your doors, make adjustments, and help you determine if a replacement would be more cost-effective in the long run.
Lower Bills Start at the Door
Don’t let a drafty or outdated door drain your energy budget. If you’re ready to reduce energy loss and improve comfort this summer, schedule an exterior door inspection or upgrade with MUNZ Roofing today.
