With the constant rise in energy costs and the growing awareness of the environmental impact of our homes, more and more homeowners are looking for sustainable solutions to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Among the key elements to consider in an energy renovation, doors and windows occupy a central place. They directly influence thermal comfort, energy consumption, indoor air quality, and even the resale value of your property. In this article, Prestige comfort guides you through the benefits, technologies and best practices to make an informed and profitable choice.

The role of doors and windows in energy loss

Openings — that is, doors and windows — are often responsible for much of the heat loss in winter, and for overheating in summer. According to Natural Resources Canada, up to 25% of a home's heat loss comes from these weak spots. When these elements are poorly insulated, old, or installed incorrectly, cold air easily enters the house, while hot air escapes. This forces heating systems to run longer, increasing energy consumption and associated costs.

In summer, the phenomenon is reversed: the sun's rays heat the interior through the windows, forcing the air conditioning to compensate. By replacing your doors and windows with energy-efficient models, you create a more airtight and efficient envelope, which reduces heating and air conditioning needs while increasing your comfort.

Modern technologies for maximum performance

Door and window manufacturers have developed numerous innovations to improve energy efficiency. Here are the main ones:

• Low emissivity (Low-E) glazing : this special treatment limits heat gain and loss while allowing natural light to enter. It acts as a heat filter.
  
• Triple glazing with insulating gases : filling with argon or krypton between the panes improves thermal resistance, particularly useful in cold regions such as Quebec.
  
• Insulating frames : multi-cellular PVC, wood or fiberglass frames offer excellent insulation, unlike aluminum without breaking the thermal bridge.
  
• Insulated doors : modern models contain high-density foam cores, which significantly improves tightness and resistance to temperature extremes.
  
• Advanced weatherstripping systems : they ensure a tight seal, preventing the infiltration of air and humidity.
  
  

Each component has a direct impact on the overall energy performance of the opening. To optimize the results, the whole — glass, frame, joint, threshold — must be designed to minimize heat exchanges.

The certifications to look for for an informed choice

When shopping for energy-efficient doors and windows, certain certifications are worth considering:

• ENERGYSTAR® : this certification guarantees that the product meets strict energy performance criteria, adapted to Canadian climatic conditions.
  
• CSA-A440 : this Canadian standard assesses resistance to air, water, and wind pressure, in addition to thermal efficiency.
  
• R-Value : the higher this value, the better the insulation of the product. It is especially important for triple glazed windows or entrance doors.
  
  

Chez Prestige comfort, we only select products that are certified, tested and approved to offer our customers sustainable and concrete results.

Return on investment: short and long term savings

Replacing your doors and windows can be a significant initial investment, but the energy savings can be felt in the first few seasons. A well-insulated house can reduce its heating bill by up to 30%, depending on the models installed and the conditions of use. Beyond the economic aspect, other benefits increase your return on investment:

• Improvement of interior comfort : fewer drafts, more stable temperature, less humidity.
  
• Reduction of condensation : the new windows limit the formation of fog, avoiding mold and damage.
  
• Real estate valuation : During a resale, buyers are looking for energy efficient homes.
  
• Access to grants : several government programs, such as Renoclimat, offer financial incentives for energy-efficient renovations.
  
  

An ecological choice for the future

In addition to savings, opting for energy-efficient products allows you to reduce your carbon footprint. Reduced energy consumption means less electricity production (often from non-renewable resources in some regions), and therefore fewer greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, modern materials are designed to last longer, reducing the frequency of replacement, and many are recyclable.

It is a concrete gesture to contribute to the ecological transition while increasing the quality of life in your home.

Aesthetics and personalization: efficiency does not mean compromise

Energy-efficient doors and windows have nothing to envy to classic models aesthetically. Today, manufacturers offer a multitude of styles, colors, shapes, and finishes to match any type of architecture — from contemporary chalets to classic bungalows. You can choose between casement, sash, awning, or fixed windows, and steel, wood, or fibreglass doors, with or without decorative stained glass.

You thus benefit from products that combine style, comfort and performance, without compromise.

The importance of professional installation

Even the best windows will lose their effectiveness if they are installed incorrectly. An improperly secured opening, poor caulking, or a poorly fitting joint can cause air and moisture leaks. Chez Prestige comfort, our installers are trained to meet the highest quality standards. Each installation is subject to a rigorous inspection: verification of the tightness, alignment, and operation of the mechanisms, and installation of appropriate weather stripping.

A job well done guarantees not only optimal performance, but also the sustainability of your investment.

Conclusion

Energy-efficient doors and windows are much more than a luxury: they are a smart, sustainable and profitable choice for any home. By improving the thermal efficiency of your home, they allow you to make significant savings, while improving your daily comfort and contributing to the protection of the environment.

With the expertise of Prestige comfort, you benefit from certified products, personalized support and professional installation, for results that meet your expectations. Choose a sustainable future, now.

‍