Winterizing Exterior Doors: Tips to Keep Your Home Warm

As the chilly winter months roll in, keeping your home warm and energy-efficient becomes a top priority. One often-overlooked area that can contribute to heat loss is your exterior doors. In Aurora, Colorado, where temperatures can drop significantly during the winter, ensuring your exterior doors are properly winterized is crucial to maintaining comfort and reducing energy bills.

At Ortiz Quality Doors, we specialize in providing high-quality door installation services that not only enhance the aesthetic of your home but also improve its energy efficiency. Let’s dive into some practical tips for winterizing your exterior doors to keep your home cozy and efficient during the colder months.

The first step in winterizing your exterior doors is to inspect them for gaps or drafts. Even the smallest crack or gap can allow cold air to seep in and warm air to escape, making your heating system work harder. Check the perimeter of your doorframe for visible gaps, especially around the sides and bottom of the door.

What to do:

• Weatherstripping: Adding or replacing weatherstripping around your door frame can seal any gaps and prevent drafts.
• Door Sweep: Install a door sweep at the bottom of your exterior door to block any cold air from entering underneath the door. This is especially effective for doors with a slight gap beneath them.
  

If your current exterior door is old or poorly insulated, it may be time to consider an upgrade. High-quality insulated doors are designed to keep the cold out and the warmth in, significantly improving energy efficiency. Look for doors that have energy-efficient ratings or are made from materials such as fiberglass or steel, which offer better insulation than traditional wooden doors.

What to do:

• Consult a professional: At Ortiz Quality Doors, we offer expert guidance in selecting and installing insulated exterior doors that best fit your home and needs.
  

Adding a storm door to your entryway provides an extra layer of protection against the harsh winter elements. Storm doors create an additional buffer that helps to insulate the door and reduce drafts. This is a cost-effective solution that can help extend the life of your primary door while keeping your home warmer.



What to do:

• Choose a quality storm door: Look for one that has a solid frame and weatherstripping, which helps reduce energy loss.
  

Over time, the caulking around your doorframe may wear down, leading to air leaks. Sealing these gaps is an essential step in winterizing your exterior doors. Use a high-quality caulk designed for outdoor use to seal any cracks between the door frame and the wall.

What to do:

• Inspect and reapply caulk: If the existing caulk is cracked or missing, carefully remove it and apply a new layer to ensure a tight seal.
  

If your door is large or faces direct exposure to the elements, consider adding a temporary door covering to enhance insulation. These door covers can be installed quickly and help protect your door from harsh winter winds while adding another layer of insulation.



What to do:

• Thermal door covers: These covers are designed to trap heat and insulate the door, making them an affordable and effective option for additional warmth during the winter.
  

Ensure that your door hardware, including hinges and handles, is in good working condition. A malfunctioning door lock or hardware can cause the door to not seal properly, allowing drafts to sneak in. Check that all hardware is secure and working smoothly.



What to do:

• Lubricate hardware: Apply lubricating oil to hinges and locks to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
  

Lastly, regular inspections and maintenance are key to keeping your exterior doors in top condition. Ensure that weatherstripping and seals are intact, and check for any damage caused by wear and tear or extreme weather conditions. A well-maintained door will better withstand the elements and provide better insulation.



What to do:

• Schedule regular checks: Set a reminder to inspect your exterior doors and perform any necessary maintenance before the winter season hits.
  

Winterizing your exterior doors is an important step in ensuring your home remains warm, comfortable, and energy-efficient throughout the colder months. Whether you need to replace an old door, install weatherstripping, or add a storm door, Ortiz Quality Doors in Aurora, CO, is here to help. With our expertise in door installation and custom solutions, we can help you create a more energy-efficient and comfortable home this winter.

If you're ready to upgrade your exterior doors or need professional advice on winterizing them, contact Ortiz Quality Doors today for a consultation. Stay warm this winter with our top-quality door solutions!

Feel free to reach out to Ortiz Quality Doors for any door installation or custom door solutions in Aurora, CO. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve the perfect entryway for your home, no matter the season!