| Wood doors are now a major player in sustainable | | | | which is acceptable depending on the binding material. |
| building design. Being more energy efficient in sealing | | | | These are typically better for interior use and are |
| out winds, extreme heat or cold, and moisture, this | | | | created from lumber waste shavings. Solid doors |
| type of door is essential for interior and exterior | | | | tend to be made from alder, mahogany, cherry, and |
| applications. Wood is a sustainable material itself, | | | | other hard woods, while the use of exotic veneers |
| making this renewable resource a requirement. The | | | | has become very popular as a decorative accent. |
| Temperate Forest Foundation states that wood is 16 | | | | This higher end designer look has become a trend in |
| times more efficient than concrete, 415 times more | | | | modern interiors. |
| efficient than steel, and 2,000 times more efficient | | | | Reclaimed wood and fast growing resources such as |
| than aluminum. Hands down, wood doors will assist in | | | | bamboo are also popular green trends. Going green |
| cutting down energy costs. However, it is essential | | | | with a solid wood door has its ecological benefits as |
| that a wood door be properly installed by a | | | | wood materials are kept out of landfills and the doors |
| professional, particularly in an entry way where the | | | | will last much longer. They can be refinished or |
| majority of energy will be lost. When looking to | | | | refurbished as needed. Much of today’s |
| purchase a new wood door, one of the things to | | | | sustainable wood comes from certified forest where |
| consider is the U-Factor. Manufacturers will provide | | | | logging companies have made a commitment to |
| this information right on the door, which indicates | | | | replenishing. It is very easy to find that perfect wood |
| how well the building material keeps heat inside a | | | | door, whether it is a custom design or a stock size. |
| residence or commercial installation. | | | | The choices are unlimited. Research the best options |
| The lower the U-factor, the better. A solid wood | | | | for your area before purchasing, as extreme |
| exterior door will typically be .40. It is also important | | | | weather can still have an effect on wood. Wood |
| to look for Low-E Argon or insulated glass to provide | | | | doors will save money and energy over the long run, |
| additional efficiency. Solid wood and wood doors with | | | | as well as provide a long lasting, rich look to your |
| veneers are considered sustainable. Some doors are | | | | home. |
| also created from reconstituted wood and molded, | | | | |