Learn how a storm door keeps the outdoors where it belongs
Storm doors do more than just protect against bad weather; they offer energy efficiency, pest protection, ventilation, and noise reduction.
Full-, mid-, and high-view doors are the three primary types of storm doors.
Storm doors can be costly and may have high maintenance requirements.
Vinyl, steel, and aluminum are the most common storm door materials.
If your home’s comfort and safety are some of your top priorities, a storm door might be the perfect addition to your entryway. But what is a storm door, exactly, and how can it benefit you and your family? Before you can choose which style of storm door is right for you, learn more about what they do and the benefits of installing one in your home.
So—what is a storm door? Many of us probably know the general idea: A storm door provides an outer layer of protection to your existing entry door. But there’s a lot more to it than that.
Another question you might ask is, “What is the purpose of a storm door?” Well, there’s more than one purpose. Beyond acting as an extra layer of protection, storm doors are commonly installed to allow more light and ventilation into a home. They also fight against harsh weather and bugs, plus they can help keep your pets inside. Although they’re sometimes used interchangeably with screen doors, storm doors include a glass panel and a latching or locking handle set for additional protection. Screen doors, on the other hand, are mostly used for ventilation.
When it comes to shopping for a storm door, you can choose from various sizes and materials, such as glass and screen panels. There are typically three layers in a storm door: the front, the back, and an insulating layer in between.
If you’re still unsure whether a storm door is right for you, here’s a list of benefits to make your decision a little easier:
One of the main benefits of a storm door is to keep rain, ice, and snow from damaging your front door. Storm doors can also guard against water damage inside your home in the event of flooding.
If you want the feel of an open door without inviting in bugs or mosquitos, then a storm door is a great option. You can keep your front door open and let cool air in without having to worry about unwelcome critters.
Think of a storm door as an extra layer of protection against burglars. All storm doors come with their own lockset and glass, making it more difficult for intruders to come in.
When your home is properly sealed, your cooling and heating systems don’t have to work as hard to regulate the internal temperature. A storm door helps keep your home energy efficient, which saves you money on utility bills in the long run.
Since they’re made up of three solid layers, storm doors create a barrier that reduces the amount of noise entering your home, such as traffic, trash collection, and even construction.
Installing a storm door can immediately brighten up your hallway entrance. Your kids and pets can roam freely and enjoy the natural sunlight without the risk of running out the door.
Over the course of several years, door materials age and start to allow air to pass through. Storm doors create a barrier that traps air from leaving or entering the home. They also extend the life of your front door by protecting it from the intensity of the sun or the cold.
Since they come in different styles and colors, storm doors can add a little more charm to your space. Consider painting your storm door to match the color of your front door for a unique and modern feel.
Since they have retractable screen panels, storm doors can provide an excellent source of air circulation. If you have a house with few windows, this can be the perfect solution for getting more air flowing through your home.
While storm doors offer several benefits, they also have some potential drawbacks that are worth noting.
Storm doors can be relatively expensive to purchase and install compared to other home improvement options. The initial investment includes the cost of the door itself, hardware, and professional installation (if required). These added expenses might not be justifiable for some people, especially if their budget is limited or if they don't see significant benefits from having a storm door.
Proper maintenance is essential to keep storm doors in good condition and functioning effectively. Regular cleaning is necessary to remove dirt, dust, and debris that can accumulate on the door's surface. Additionally, storm doors might require occasional repainting or refinishing to protect them from weathering and maintain their appearance. People who are not prepared to invest time and effort in maintenance might find storm doors more burdensome than beneficial.
In certain climates or regions with mild weather patterns, the need for a storm door might be minimal. During pleasant seasons, people might prefer to keep their main doors open for better ventilation and to enjoy the outdoors, making the installation of a storm door less practical and cost-effective.
Storm doors can take up additional space in entryways, which can be a concern for smaller homes or areas with limited space. The added bulk of a storm door might make entryways feel narrower, potentially causing inconvenience and reducing the visual appeal of the entrance.
During severe weather conditions with strong winds or storms, improperly installed or poorly maintained storm doors can be susceptible to damage. Additionally, if not adequately secured, storm doors can slam shut forcefully, potentially causing damage to the main entry door or injuring people passing through the entryway.
In hot climates, storm doors can create a "greenhouse effect," trapping heat between the main door and the storm door. This heat buildup can lead to increased energy consumption for cooling the interior space. People living in warm regions should carefully consider the potential impact on energy bills before learning how to install a storm door.
The level of security provided by storm doors can vary based on their design and quality. Some storm doors might have less robust locking mechanisms or be more vulnerable to break-ins compared to solid main doors or security doors. People concerned about security should choose a storm door with reinforced features and strong locks or consider alternative security measures.
Once you’ve decided that a storm door is right for you, you’re ready to determine what type of storm door you need. It’s important to choose one that fits your specific needs, size of home, and style. Here are the three available types of storm doors:
This is a full glass door that’s customized by frame color, storm door handle type, and glass design. This option is best if you have a colorful front door or want to enhance your home’s curb appeal.
This 3/4 glass, mid-view door is perfect if you want more natural sunlight to come into your home. You can choose from a retractable screen, multi-vent options, and bottom panel colors.
A high-view door is best for homes with heavy foot traffic because it has the largest bottom panel options. The top half is glass and screen. For ventilation, you lift the glass on the top part of the door.
Since storm doors come in various materials, you’ll need to pick one before installing it in your home. Most storm doors are made of aluminum, steel, or vinyl frames.
This type of storm door is great because they are lightweight and come in various colors, making it the most popular choice.
Vinyl-clad storm doors are best for those who prefer neutral colors, such as white or almond, since they tend to fade over time. They can resist snow, ice, and rain.
Storm doors made of steel come in a variety of colors. They are long-lasting, strong, and can keep up with an active family who often come in and out of the house.
A storm door can make a huge difference to the look of your home and give your family the comfort and security they need. If you’ve decided that a storm door is right for you, make sure to choose quality over price for a longer-lasting and durable finish. Always consult with a professional storm door installer near you to learn about the best types of storm doors for your budget and needs.
A storm door helps insulate your home because it's a secondary door that fits outside your main door. The storm door’s material offers an extra layer of insulation that is especially helpful for older homes with main doors that may let drafts in. Storm doors keep heat from escaping in the winter and also prevent it from creeping in during the hot summer months. This feature will help regulate your home's temperature control.
Whether a storm door is necessary depends on your specific needs and location. Storm doors provide extra insulation, protection against the elements, and ventilation options. They can extend the life of the main door by shielding it from harsh weather. However, in milder climates or areas with limited extreme weather, their benefits might be less significant.
For people seeking additional energy efficiency, enhanced security, or a buffer zone between indoor and outdoor spaces, a storm door can be a valuable addition. Ultimately, the decision to install a storm door should be based on individual preferences, budget, and regional weather conditions.
A storm door, on average, will typically cost about $185 to $650, depending on the size, weight, and type of door. You’ll also have to consider labor costs, as storm door installers usually charge around $75 to $400 per door. Look into getting other storm-proofing elements added to your home at the same time as a storm door in case your contractor offers a discount for bundling.
