Choosing a door
Performance in terms of various industry standards
Various ratings are available, but they cannot all be interpreted the same way. The R-value is the resistance of a given material to thermal transmission. The higher it is, the better the rating. The U-value indicates the heat transfer rate. The lower it is, the better the rating. The A-value indicates resistance to air infiltration, the B-value resistance to water infiltration, the C-value resistance to wind pressure, and the F-value resistance to break-ins. These air, water, and structure performance factors can also be expressed as a DP (design pressure) rating, a unit of measure that will come into general use in North America in the coming years. To help you understand these values with regard to test results, consult the Frequently Asked Questions section.
In terms of energy efficiency, Energy Star qualified doors also offer top performance. Consult the list of Canadian manufacturers and Energy Star retailers. For U.S. Energy Star partners, click here.
Choice of glass
All P.H. Tech door manufacturers offer a selection of glass options whose features can have an impact on overall door energy efficiency. Here are a number of options that can improve the energy performance of doors:
• Low-E film applied to glass helps reduce temperature variations caused by the transmission of solar energy through glass.
• Insulating glasses: Find out about glass with argon and krypton fill.
• Triple pane glass can be installed in a number of P.H. Tech door models. Learn more about the possibilities.
Environmental awareness
P.H. Tech is taking a number of concrete actions to ensure its production has minimal impact on the environment. See how you can make your door purchase more eco-friendly.
Style
Depending on the exterior style of your home, a number of types of brickmold can be used. A number of options are also available to enhance the interior look of your doors, and are described in the section.
Cost
When it comes to cost, it is important to consider the following factors, not just the initial price:
• Initial door and installation cost (the sturdier the door, the easier it is to handle and the less time it takes to install)
• Maintenance cost (practically zero for PVC doors, which resist discoloration)
• Replacement cost based on product lifetime and warranty
• Impact on the resale value of your home
• Impact of door efficiency on your energy expenses to heat and/or air condition your home (see the Energy Efficiency section).
Maintenance
It is worthwhile considering the time and resources that will be required to maintain doors based on the material selected. If you opt for wood or aluminum doors, for example, you will eventually have to reapply paint or stain, which is not the case for PVC doors. Find out about the resistance of PVC to yellowing and discoloration. Tests on P.H. Tech doors have proven that they are twice as resistant as those of the competition.
Accelerated weathering test
The patio door will always be the most challenged opening of your house.
Ease of operation and rolling mecanisms durability remain major criterias in the selection of a door. Don't hesitate to make the finger tip test in the showroom. Make sure it slides smoothly.