How to Install a Storm Door on a Home
Homeowners who live in areas with strong storms, from Miami to Buffalo, use storm doors to provide added protection to their front doors and the rest of their homes. While immediately providing an extra barrier between the property and severe weather conditions, storm doors offer additional security, security, soundproofing, and energy efficiency.
If you’re considering adding a storm door, consider the condition of your current exterior door, the type of storms common in your area, and the additional benefits you hope to gain before you begin pricing out the options.
*Photo Contribution: RealtyHop
Why Should You Install a Storm Door?
You may want a storm door for various reasons, from simply matching other homes in your neighborhood to increasing the security of your entryway. Some of the many potential benefits of storm doors include:
Protect Your Front Door
Consider adding a new storm door if your current entry door needs protection due to age or exposure to elements. With a storm door to take on the brunt of the damage caused by winds, rain, hail, and even insects, you can save money on home maintenance and repairs. Also, replacing a storm door costs less than purchasing and installing an exterior door. Currently, the cost to buy and install an entry door averages around $1,130, according to HomeGuide.
Energy Efficiency
If your current entry door does not provide an efficient air seal, you may lose some of your home’s energy efficiency. A storm door can provide this added seal and a layer of protection between your home and the cooler or warmer air outdoors. Increasing your home’s energy efficiency can also save money, as your heating and cooling system will not work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Increase Natural Light and Airflow
If you currently have a solid entry door, you can increase the amount of natural light entering your home through the glass inset of a storm door. In the warm and mild seasons, some storm doors allow you to swap out the glass inserts for mesh screens to increase airflow in your home.
Storm Protection
Stronger, more durable storm doors offer increased protection over a basic screen door. However, in some climates, homeowners may forgo a storm door and install an even stronger impact-resistant one. If you’re concerned about high winds associated with hurricanes, the Insurance Information Institute recommends that your exterior door have a high-wind rating, three hinges, and a one-inch deadbolt.
Design Purposes
If you like the look of a storm door, consider adding one to spruce up your entryway. Remember, your entryway serves as one focal point and can attract attention from passers-by. A new storm door can increase curb appeal and help sell your home.
Do You Need a Storm Door?
Homeowners in storm-heavy climates should consider adding a storm door to their property. Those that receive many severe weather incidents per year, like tornados, hurricanes, and blizzards, can benefit from installing an extra layer of protection against their home. The door can protect against strong winds and low temperatures.
Storm doors may not be ideal for those who live in warm climates that do not receive frequent storms. Those who receive direct sunlight also may not benefit from adding a storm door, as the added door can keep their home too warm.
When purchasing a home in a new area, walk through the neighborhood to see if other properties have storm doors. Consider adding one if many neighbors have a storm door.
Types of Storm Doors
You can find storm doors in various materials and designs. The storm door style generally describes the amount of glass in the door. Low-E glass options offer additional insulation and promote a higher level of energy efficiency.
There are different types of views that homeowners can choose from, including:
- Full-view storm doors offer a view of your entry door through an extended glass panel.
- Mid-view storm doors include a smaller glass section than full-view doors and a panel on the bottom for added protection.
- High-view storm doors provide only a small section of glass set higher in the door for maximum protection against high winds.
Homeowners may also choose to install a pet door at the bottom of a storm door or select a style with interchangeable screens.
*Photo Contribution: RealtyHop
Construction Materials
Homeowners should consider the material of their prospective storm door. Most storm doors consist of cost-effective materials like vinyl, steel, aluminum, fiberglass, or wood. Metal-framed doors generally come with a foam core that provides strength and durability. Wood storm doors may require more maintenance and upkeep but are more budget-friendly.
When shopping for storm doors, don’t forget to look at hardware options, such as the handle and locks. The color and overall look of your storm door should mesh well with your existing door and the style of your home.
How to Measure a Storm Door
You’ll need to know how to measure a storm door and the surrounding frame to ensure you buy the correct size. If you want to replace a storm door, measure the existing one to find something in the same size. You’ll also want to measure the door frame for a new storm door or a replacement. Storm doors come in standard sizes, but some may allow small adjustments to fit a frame. If your measurements don’t match the standard by a wide margin, you may need to order a custom door. When you measure the door, you should also note how it swings open and if the hinge location is on the left or the right.
How to Install a Storm Door on a Home
You can pay a professional to install your storm door or handle it yourself. While self-installation can save money, you’ll want to avoid common home renovation mistakes such as overestimating your skills or knowledge and underestimating the time it will take to complete the job. Always follow safety protocols when hanging a storm door and have someone assist you with heavy lifting and stabilization. This type of installation requires precision, and if you make even a small error in measuring or fitting the door, you may run into issues with the movement and seal.
Storm Door Alternatives
Only some people need a storm door to protect their home. If a storm door is not a perfect fit for your home, you can consider some alternatives:
A High-Quality Exterior Door
If your primary front door provides an adequate seal when locked, adding a storm door may only duplicate your efforts without adding much benefit. Also, according to the Department of Energy, in some warmer climates, direct sunlight could result in hot air sitting between your storm door and your entry door, which might cause damage to the primary entrance.
An Exterior Door with a Screen Door
Screen doors protect from bugs and allow fresh air to enter the home. Storm doors offer stronger protection from natural elements and better overall energy efficiency. Given the configuration of your entryway and the typical weather patterns in your area, you may not receive a significant benefit by switching from a screen door to a storm door. Also, you can add a less-permanent option, such as a magnetic screen door, to increase airflow in your home.
Conclusion
In some climates, a storm door can provide value in the form of energy efficiency and added protection against the elements. Before you buy, consider all of the options, from construction materials to the amount of glass, the door’s overall weather resistance, and any added benefits you hope to derive, such as energy efficiency.
