What is the most energy efficient patio door?

With the domestic housing sector accounting for around 27% of the UK’s carbon emissions, coupled with the fact that relatively new legislation states that privately rented homes must have a minimum energy rating of E or above, many South East homeowners and landlords are looking into the best ways to make their properties more energy efficient. Considering inefficient windows and doors are responsible for up to 40% of wasted energy in the home, it makes sense to replace these before investing in the latest insulation and heating.

Patio doors are a common sight in British homes, and for good reason; they create stunning ‘walls of glass’ that let the light flood in, they’re perfect for homes low on space and they’re incredibly user-friendly. Design, size, colour, and cost are all important factors to consider, but what about energy efficiency? Available in 3 energy efficient materials, we are often asked which is the most thermally sound patio door. Allow us to explain further.

uPVC patio doors

uPVC retains its popularity due to its pioneering multi-chambered design, effectively retaining optimum levels of warmth inside. Achieving outstanding U-values as low as 0.9W/m2K and A++ energy ratings, our uPVC patio doors provide the best energy efficient qualities around. When superior energy efficiency overrides the need for ultra-slim sightlines, uPVC patio doors are the ideal choice.

Aluminium patio doors

For years, aluminium was deemed highly inefficient due to its decidedly conductive traits; meaning heat could pass through it very easily. However, in the last few decades, technological advances have transformed aluminium into one of the most energy efficient construction materials around. Its thermally broken design retains heat through several layers, whilst simultaneously eliminating any draughts from entering. Offering U-values almost as low as uPVC (1.32w/m2K), aluminium patio doors are perfect for modern architectural home improvements where slim sightlines and energy efficiency are of equal importance.

If sustainability is also important to you, it is worth bearing in mind that aluminium is one of the world’s most easily recyclable materials – lasting up to 45 years, compared to the 20-25-year lifespan of uPVC.

Wooden patio doors

Timber is a natural insulator that has been used in classic door construction as far back as we can remember. Able to achieve superb U-values around 1.2W/m2K and energy ratings of A, timber sliding patio doors are a fitting choice for homeowners who seek the perfect balance between contemporary door design and traditional aesthetics, e.g. conservation areas.

Able to last at least 30 years with yearly maintenance, all our timber home improvement products are responsibly sourced from FSC certified forests, ensuring the highest environmental standards are met.

Energy efficient patio doors tailored to green homes in Ipswich & Oxford to Essex & Suffolk

From slender aluminium patio door upgrades to heritage-infused timber sliding patio doors, improve your homes EPC whilst reducing your carbon footprint with a high-performance SEHBAC patio door installation or replacement. Offering ultra-efficient comfort glass or up to 40% off windows, doors and conservatories for a limited time only, there’s never been a better time to heighten your homes energy performance!

Visit your nearest SEH showcentre or browse through our latest customer reviews to find out why South East homeowners choose us for thermally-sound windows, doors, conservatories and extensions.