What are Storm Doors

If you live in a state with extreme weather conditions, chances are you have become accustomed to seeing storm doors on every home. Storm doors were created as a secondary shield to the entrance of homes. Back in the day, they provided that additional insulation and protection for a house's front door. But as technology and the emphasis on energy-efficiency has increased, front doors have been made with more robust materials and tighter fittings. Have storm doors become an unnecessary expense? Keep reading to find out.

In this post, we'll answer the following questions:
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What is a Storm Door?
Do I Need Storm Doors For My House?
Are Screen Doors the Same as Storm Doors?
Pros & Cons of Storm Doors
Where Should I Buy Storm Doors?

What is a Storm Door?

A storm door is a secondary door on the exterior side of the front or back door of a building. Its purpose is to insulate and protect the inside door and, ultimately, the home from temperatures and damage that could be caused by extreme weather conditions.

Vinyl PVA, fiberglass, aluminum, and wood are the material choices for storm door frames. You can personalize your door from a selection of styles and features. Viewing capabilities come in full view, three-quarter view, or half view door. The best storm doors use tempered safety glass, and some have an interchangeable ventilating screen↗ or roll screen to allow airflow.

Do I Need Storm Doors For My House?

When it comes to purchasing a storm door, you need to take your state climate and personal household needs into consideration. If you have an older home that is susceptible to the elements, then a storm door could significantly reduce energy loss and offer protection for your house. In a newer build, where energy efficiency has been considered during construction, a storm door may not be necessary. However, a storm door can still provide some benefits when it comes to welcoming airflow or light into your home.

Are Screen Doors the Same as Storm Doors?

While the term is used interchangeably, there is a difference between screen and storm doors. Both doors are placed in the same position - outside your front door and can have a similar structure.

Screen doors have a mesh screen that allows airflow while keeping pests, critters, and debris outside.
Storm doors are made with strong glass panels to prevent airflow and increase protection.

Storm doors have many different parts, and some designs can have the same functionality as a screen door. This is why the term "screen door" will also be used to describe a storm door. Storm doors are often made with sliding mesh screens, or interchangeable fittings. This is helpful on warmer days when you desire some airflow throughout your home.

Depending on the storm door design that you choose, it can serve your household through all the seasons.

Pros and Cons of Storm Doors

Is a storm door going to benefit your home? Here are some pros and cons that could assist you in your decision-making.

Benefits of Storm Doors

Added security from intruders
Savings on energy costs
Curb appeal
Allows natural light to flow into your home, while keeping nature out
Interchangeable screening allows airflow for hot days while keeping your family safe inside
Tempered glass on storm doors breaks into small pieces, which are less of a hazard
Protects the condition of your front door
Come in a variety of colors and styles to suit your home

Drawbacks of Storm Doors

Installation can be complicated and expensive for unusual doorways.
Costs increase with extra features such as door handles, pet doors, lock latches, etc.
The entry becomes a struggle when you have full arms.
Due to heavy use and exposure to the elements, storm doors require costly maintenance and care.

Where Should I Buy Storm Doors?

When it comes to buying a shied for your house door, you want to invest in something strong and durable. The best place to buy a storm door is from a local construction and installation specialist who can advise you on the best option. Focus on finding a business that is knowledgable of their products and has your best interest at heart. The fit of the storm door will change its impact, so getting a professional to install it is favored over a DIY endeavor. If doors from a window and door dealer is out of your budget, they can also be found at local big box home improvement stores.

Whether you live in sweltering Texas or windblown Nebraska↗, a storm door could be the difference between feeling vulnerable or secure in your home.