A storm door frames your entryway, adds curb appeal, and reduces the work your heating and cooling system has to do to regulate your home’s temperature. They also help prevent cold air from coming in and allow fresh breezes to circulate your home.
Many options include interchangeable glass and screen panels, which can be removed to let in more light or for warmer weather ventilation. They also come in a choice of opening options, with some offering reversible doors that can open on either the right or left side.
Full-View
Full-view storm doors feature a large glass panel that occupies most of the door’s area. They frame your primary door and allow natural light to cascade into the home. They can also be paired with a screen for seasonal ventilation.
Full view doors can be customized by frame color, storm door handle type, and glass design to complement your home’s architectural style. They also provide a durable barrier against harsh weather conditions and enhance curb appeal.
High-view storm doors offer traditional on-demand ventilation by lifting the top half of the glass panel for a breeze. They are ideal for back doors that experience heavy foot traffic. Some models include retractable screens that disappear into the storm door frame when not in use. This makes them a great option for homes with kids and pets who may not want to keep track of the screen when it isn’t in place. They also work well for homes with arthritic hands that find it difficult to lift heavier glass panels.
Mid-View
The mid-view model is ideal for a home that gets a lot of foot traffic. The glass fills two-thirds of the frame, and a bottom section may be solid or feature a kick plate offering increased durability. This type of storm door also allows for ventilation by allowing you to replace the upper glass with a screen during warm weather.
Regardless of the style you choose, it’s important to hire an expert for installation. The correct fit ensures that your energy efficiency and security aren’t negatively impacted by gaps or air leaks. If you do choose to install your storm door yourself, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and work in a well-lit area. Incorrect installation can decrease your energy efficiency and leave your door vulnerable to damage. Professional installation, like that offered by Handyman On Call, offers peace of mind and long-lasting performance.
Full-Glass
Full-view storm doors have a glass panel that frames the door like a picture frame, allowing natural light to flow into the home. This can brighten up any room and also gives families a chance to watch their kids playing in the yard or neighborhood, which isn’t possible with a solid entry door.
Many homeowners choose to use a full-view storm door in order to increase ventilation and natural sunlight. These options are available in a variety of frame colors and handle styles, which can be customized to match your existing front door.
If you decide to go with a full-glass storm door, make sure that it comes with a screen so that you can ventilate in the warmer months and close the door against rain or snow. If you have young children or pets, a high view storm door may be a better option because it only has glass in the top half and is made of solid material at the bottom. This way, it will be less prone to fingerprints and other marks.
Half-Glass
The half-glass storm door provides a view of the outdoors without detracting from your home’s curb appeal. This type of storm door typically has a window on the bottom half, but can be customized with different glass designs and colors to complement your front door. It can also be equipped with retractable screens and multiple vent options, reducing the need to change storm door insets each season.
This type of storm door can be made out of wood or aluminum, both of which are highly durable materials that stand up well to cold and wind. If you choose a wood storm door, be sure to have it painted regularly to keep it from rotting or being attacked by termites.
Many of these storm doors feature tempered glass. This type of glass is more resistant to breaking than traditional annealed glass, and will break into pebble-like pieces rather than sharp shards. It can also reduce the amount of UV light that enters your home, reducing the chances of furniture fading. Most of these types of storm doors also come with a variety of options and features that make them the best choice for your home.
Choosing Your Storm Door
Choosing the right storm door requires some thought and research. It is best to work with professionals who specialize in these types of products and can recommend reputable brands and models. Additionally, professional installation ensures that the storm door is properly fitted and sealed maximizing its effectiveness and longevity.
Storm doors can be made of steel, aluminum or composite. Steel is often the preferred option for homeowners looking for dependability and longevity. It is dent-resistant, rot-resistant, and warp-resistant. It also offers superior security and protection against invasion attempts. Aluminum is a lightweight alternative to steel, with the added benefit of corrosion resistance. It is available in a variety of styles, designs and colors that can compliment many homes. It is an excellent choice for families with children as it can resist accidental bumps and dents that may damage the primary door over time.
