The Ultimate Guide to Storm Door Installation and Benefits

Storm doors are a great addition to any home, offering protection, energy efficiency, and improved curb appeal. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about storm doors, from types and materials to installation and benefits.

Key Takeaways

Feature	Benefit
Energy Efficiency	Can reduce energy loss by up to 50%
Protection	Shields main door from weather elements
Ventilation	Allows fresh air while keeping insects out
Security	Provides an extra layer of home protection
Cost Savings	Potential to reduce energy costs by 15-20% annually

Types of Storm Doors

Storm doors come in various styles to suit different needs and preferences. Here are the most common types:

Full-view Storm Doors

Full-view storm doors have a large glass panel covering almost the entire door. They let in lots of light and show off your main door. Full-view storm doors usually cost between $200 and $525. They're great if you want to see outside and make your main door look nice.

Mid-view Storm Doors

Mid-view storm doors have glass covering about half to three-quarters of the door, with a solid bottom part. They give you some privacy while still letting in light. These doors usually cost $160 to $300. Many people like them because they balance light and privacy.

High-view Storm Doors

High-view storm doors have a small glass panel at the top and a bigger solid part at the bottom. They give you more privacy but still let some light in. These doors typically cost $150 to $325. They're good for homes where you want more privacy or if you don't have a nice view outside.

Retractable Screen Doors

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Retractable screen doors have a screen you can roll up when you're not using it. This lets you switch between having a full glass view and letting fresh air in. Retractable screen doors usually cost $250 to $600. They're perfect if you want to enjoy both a clear view and fresh air whenever you like.

Materials and Construction

Storm doors are made from different materials. Here are the most common ones:

Aluminum Storm Doors

Aluminum doors are popular because they're strong, light, and don't rust. They're easy to take care of and can handle different weather. You can get them in many colors to match your house.

Vinyl-clad Storm Doors

Vinyl-clad doors are good at keeping heat in and don't get scratched easily. They're simple to clean and often cheaper than other types. If you're looking to save money, these might be a good choice.

Steel-clad Storm Doors

Steel-clad doors are very strong and secure. They're great if you want extra protection for your home. But in wet places, you might need to take extra care of them to stop rust.

Fiberglass Options

Fiberglass storm doors are great for places with tough weather. They're strong, can handle big temperature changes, and don't need much care. Fiberglass storm doors are good for homes near the ocean or in areas with very hot or cold weather.

Benefits of Installing a Storm Door

Storm doors have many good points. Let's look at some of the main ones:

Better Energy Efficiency

Storm doors help keep your house warm in winter and cool in summer. They create an extra layer between your home and the outside. This can cut down on energy loss by up to 50%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. You might save a lot on heating and cooling bills throughout the year.

Protection from Weather

Storm doors shield your main door from rain, snow, ice, and wind. This extra protection can make your main door last longer and need less fixing over time. It also helps stop water damage and drafts, which can make your home more comfortable and keep it in good shape.

More Fresh Air and Light

Many storm doors have parts you can switch between glass and screens. This lets you control how much fresh air and light comes in. When the weather's nice, you can open your main door and use the storm door's screen to let in fresh air while keeping bugs out. This is really nice in spring and fall when you want to enjoy the outdoors from inside.

Extra Security

Storm doors add another layer of security to your home. They often have their own locks, making it harder for someone to break in. Some security storm doors are made extra strong with special frames and locks for even more protection. This can help you feel safer in your home.

Less Noise

The extra layer of a storm door can help reduce noise from outside, making your home quieter. This is really helpful if you live on a busy street or in a noisy area. It can make your home more peaceful and comfortable.

Main Door Lasts Longer

By protecting your main door from weather, a storm door can make it last much longer. This can save you money because you won't need to replace or fix your main door as often. The storm door takes the brunt of the weather, keeping your main door looking good and working well.

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Choosing the Right Storm Door

To pick the best storm door for your home, think about these things:

Measuring Your Door Frame

Getting the right size is really important. Measure the height and width of your door frame in a few places to make sure you get the right size. Measure from the inside edges of the frame, not the door itself. Also, check for things like door handles or mail slots that might get in the way of the new door.

Thinking About Your Weather

If you live somewhere with tough weather, look for storm doors made of strong materials like fiberglass or tough aluminum. In milder places, you might want a door with more glass to let in more light. In humid areas, choose doors that won't rust easily. For places with big temperature changes, look for doors that are good at insulating.

Matching Your Home's Look

Pick a storm door that looks good with your house's style and color. You can find doors in lots of colors and finishes to match your home. Think about how your main door looks and choose a storm door that goes well with it. Some people like a storm door that matches their main door exactly, while others prefer one that stands out a bit.

Picking the Right Features

Think about things like the type of glass (like Low-E glass for better insulation), screen options, and the finish on the door hardware. Choosing the right features can make your storm door work better and look nicer. For example, screens that store away can be handy for changing seasons, and strong locks can make your door more secure.

Storm Door Installation Process

While some people install storm doors themselves, it's often better to have a professional do it to make sure it fits right and works well. Here's a basic idea of how it's done:

Tools and Materials Needed

You'll need tools like a drill, screwdriver, level, tape measure, and hacksaw. The storm door kit usually comes with the door, frame, hardware, and instructions. You might also need shims, caulk, and weatherstripping to make sure the door seals well.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Take off the old storm door (if there is one) and clean the door frame.

2. Put the rain cap on top of the door frame.

3. Attach the hinge-side Z-bar to the door frame.

4. Hang the storm door on the hinges.

5. Install the latch-side Z-bar and make sure the door closes properly.

6. Add weatherstripping and adjust it to seal well.

7. Install the door closer and any other hardware.

8. Test the door to make sure it works right and make any final adjustments.

Common Installation Problems

Sometimes people run into issues like uneven door frames, wrong measurements, or trouble with weatherstripping. If you have these problems, it's best to ask a professional for help. Other tricky parts might be dealing with old hardware or fitting the door in an unusual opening.

Professional vs. DIY Installation

While doing it yourself can save money, having a professional install your storm door ensures it fits and works right. Professional installers know how to handle unexpected problems and can usually finish the job in 2-4 hours. They also make sure the installation meets local building rules and manufacturer warranties. If the installation looks complicated or you're not sure about doing it yourself, it's often best to hire a professional.

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Taking Care of Your Storm Door

Taking good care of your storm door will make it last longer and work better. Here are some tips:

Regular Cleaning and Checking

Clean your storm door often with mild soap and water. Look at the door, frame, and hardware for any signs of wear or damage. Pay extra attention to the bottom of the door and where it meets the floor, as these areas can get damaged by water and wear out faster. Regular cleaning not only keeps your door looking nice but also helps you spot problems early.

Weatherstripping and Seal Care

Check the weatherstripping and seals around the door once a year. Replace any that are worn out or damaged to keep your door energy-efficient. Well-maintained weatherstripping is important for stopping drafts and keeping the door insulating well. You can use a silicone-based lubricant on the weatherstripping to keep it flexible and working well.

Lubricating and Adjusting Hardware

Put silicone-based lubricant on the hinges and other moving parts once a year. Adjust the door closer and latch as needed so the door opens and closes smoothly. If you hear squeaking or the door sticks, it might need lubrication or adjustment. Taking care of the hardware helps the door work smoothly and prevents unnecessary wear.

Glass and Screen Care

Clean glass panels with glass cleaner and a soft cloth. For screens, gently vacuum or brush off dirt. Replace torn or damaged screens quickly. When cleaning glass, be careful not to use anything that could scratch it. For stubborn dirt on screens, you can use a mild soap solution. Keeping the glass and screens clean not only makes them look better but also helps you see through them clearly and lets air flow better.

Energy Efficiency and Saving Money

Storm doors can help make your home more energy-efficient and might save you money on energy bills.

How Storm Doors Help Save Energy

Storm doors create another barrier to stop heat from escaping and air from leaking. This extra layer of insulation can help keep your home's temperature steady, which means your heating and cooling systems don't have to work as hard. The space between your main door and the storm door acts like a buffer, making your home even more energy-efficient.

Possible Savings on Heating and Cooling

While exact savings depend on things like your local weather and how good your main door is, some estimates say storm doors can cut energy costs by up to 15-20% each year. In colder places, storm doors are especially good at keeping heat inside during winter. In hot areas, they can help keep cool air in during summer.

Long-term Benefits of Your Investment

Even though you have to pay for the storm door upfront, the energy savings and the longer life of your main door can make it worth it over time. When thinking about whether it's a good investment, consider not just the energy savings but also how you'll spend less on fixing and replacing your main door. Plus, the added comfort and increased home value are extra benefits of your investment.

Storm Doors vs. Other Door Options

Storm doors are great, but it's good to compare them with other types of doors to make sure you're choosing the best one for your home.

Comparison with Security Doors

Storm doors offer some security, but security doors are made specifically to be extra safe. Security doors are usually stronger and have better locks. However, they might not let in as much light or fresh air as storm doors. Security doors are often heavier and cost more than storm doors, but they're better at stopping break-ins.

Storm Doors and Impact-Resistant Doors

In places with bad storms, you might want to think about impact-resistant doors. These doors are made to stand up to strong winds and flying objects. Storm doors offer some protection, but not as much as impact-resistant doors. Impact-resistant doors usually cost more but can be really important in areas that get hurricanes. Some people choose to have both a storm door and an impact-resistant main door for the best protection.

Using Storm Doors with Your Current Door

One good thing about storm doors is that they work well with the door you already have. This means you can make your door better without having to replace the whole thing. Window and door experts can help you pick a storm door that looks good with your current door and house style. When adding a storm door, think about which way your main door opens, any decorative parts it has, and how it fits with the overall look of your house.

Conclusion: Getting the Most from Your Storm Door

Storm doors offer many benefits, like better energy efficiency, protection from weather, improved looks, and extra security. By choosing the right storm door for your needs and making sure it's installed and taken care of properly, you can get the most value from your investment.

Remember to think about your local weather, your home's style, and what you need when picking a storm door. Whether you choose a full-view door to show off your entry or a high-view door for more privacy, there's a storm door that's right for every home.

For expert advice on choosing and installing the perfect storm door for your home, contact ARDMOR, Inc. Our team can help you pick the right door and install it perfectly, so you can enjoy all the good things about your new storm door for years to come.