The Top 5 Energy Efficiency Upgrades for Your Home (That Start at the Door & Windows)

When it comes to improving energy efficiency at home, most homeowners think of solar panels or a new HVAC system. But the most cost-effective upgrades often start much closer to the ground—right at your doors and windows. And if you live in Southeast Michigan, where summers are hot and humid and winters are long and freezing, making these changes can drastically cut down on energy use and utility bills.

As temperatures rise across the region, now is the perfect time to assess where your home may be leaking energy—and money. Here are the top five energy efficiency upgrades that begin where most of your home's air loss happens: your doors and windows.

1. Upgrade to ENERGY STAR® Windows

Old, single-pane windows are one of the biggest culprits of energy waste, especially in homes built before the early 2000s. These outdated windows offer poor insulation, resulting in hot air seeping in during the summer and warm air escaping during the winter.

In Michigan, where summer temperatures often climb into the 80s and 90s with high humidity, your air conditioning is already working overtime. Inefficient windows only make the load heavier, driving up your energy costs.

Solution: Replace outdated windows with double- or triple-pane ENERGY STAR® certified models. These high-performance windows have features like:

• Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings

• Argon or krypton gas fills for insulation

• Durable vinyl or fiberglass frames that resist expansion in hot weather

Benefits:

• Lower energy bills year-round

• Reduced humidity infiltration in summer

• UV protection to preserve interior furnishings

• Enhanced curb appeal and resale value

2. Install Insulated Exterior Doors

Your front and back doors aren’t just security barriers—they’re major players in your home’s energy efficiency. Hollow doors or warped wood models are often porous, allowing air to move freely between indoors and out.

In summer, this means:

• Cool air escaping through gaps

• Hot outdoor air entering, especially when sun-exposed doors get warm

Upgrade to:

• Steel or fiberglass insulated doors with foam core

• ENERGY STAR® rated models with weather-resistant frames

Bonus Tip: Consider installing a storm door for an extra buffer layer against Michigan’s unpredictable weather.

3. Seal Gaps and Cracks Around Doors & Windows

Even if your doors and windows are in great shape, air leaks around the frames can drastically reduce their performance. In the heat of summer, these small gaps can let in warm, humid air that makes your AC system work overtime.

Simple Fixes:

• Apply caulk around window trim and sills

• Add weatherstripping to door frames

• Install door sweeps on the bottom of entry doors

Tip for Michigan Homes: Because our state experiences extreme seasonal shifts, these seals may crack or loosen over time. Inspect and refresh them at least twice a year—ideally at the start of summer and winter.

4. Add Window Treatments that Block Heat

Energy efficiency doesn’t end with the glass. Window treatments—like shades, blinds, or curtains—can reduce solar heat gain dramatically, especially in sunny south- and west-facing rooms.

Summer Perks:

• Reflective or thermal-lined curtains help keep rooms cooler

• Cellular shades add an extra layer of insulation

Design Tip: Opt for light-colored or reflective backing to bounce sunlight away from your home, reducing indoor heat without sacrificing natural light.

5. Invest in a Smart Door Opener and Garage Insulation

This one may surprise you: your garage can be a massive energy sink, especially if it’s attached to your home. In summer, garages can reach sweltering temperatures—transferring that heat to any adjacent rooms, such as laundry areas, entryways, or home offices.

Upgrade Ideas:

• Install an insulated garage door with weather-tight seals

• Upgrade to a smart garage door opener that reduces idle power use and provides scheduling features

• Use reflective insulation on the garage interior if a full door replacement isn’t in the budget

Michigan Advantage: These upgrades not only keep your garage cooler in the summer but help retain warmth in the winter, offering year-round efficiency.

Bonus: Monitor with a Smart Thermostat

Once your home is buttoned up at the entry points, give yourself full control over your energy use with a smart thermostat. Pairing efficient doors and windows with a program that adapts to your habits creates an unbeatable combination.

Smart Thermostat Features to Look For:

• Learning temperature patterns

• Remote control via mobile app

• Energy usage reports

• Compatibility with humidifiers or dehumidifiers

Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Impact

Making your home more energy efficient doesn’t always require a major renovation. Sometimes, the most effective upgrades are simple changes at the entry points—where cool air escapes and hot air sneaks in during Michigan’s peak summer months.

Whether you want lower utility bills, a more comfortable home, or a stronger resale value, focusing on your doors and windows is the smartest way to start.

At Home & Door, we offer top-of-the-line window and door products, expert installation, and guidance on the most effective energy-saving strategies for Southeast Michigan homes. Ready to make your home more efficient this summer?

Call us today or visit our website for a free quote!

Call 248.399.9900

www.homeanddoor.com