In warmer climes, a screen door suffices as an outer entrance to a home or apartment. For most parts of the country, storm doors provide needed insulation from the winter cold. This is a feature tenants find attractive, especially if their lease calls for utility payments. In neighborhoods where danger is a factor, storm doors provide additional security to apartments or homes. Such doors come in a variety of styles, some quite decorative.
The installation of most storm doors is fairly straightforward and need not be contracted out. Most doors come with a complete set of installation instructions, although steps may vary according to model. As with any project, follow the directions and diagrams that come with the particular door model you've selected, especially custom storm doors.
Among items to consider before purchasing storm doors are:
- Door finish;
- Weather stripping on the door;
- Hardware quality;
- Corner joints (strong and airtight).
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Find calm in storm door manufacturers
For an existing real estate property, consider replacing the storm door. The fit and insulation factor is better with modern doors compared to older ones. In terms of storm door comparison, an insulated metal or fiberglass door is a better investment than wood storm doors because of durability, lower maintenance in terms of repainting, and better seal because wood tends to warp. Metal or fiberglass doors also are a greater deterrent to break-ins.
I recommend: Several storm door manufacturers exist, but
Larson Storm Doors offers security doors and a variety of screen patterns.
Gerkin Storm Doors focuses on styles popular with customers, but allows you to design your own custom storm doors.
Open the door to online possibilities
Rather than limit yourself to the selection at the local hardware store, look for storm doors for sale online. Compare prices and selections through search engines or try do-it-yourself sites for sponsored links by storm door manufacturers.
I recommend: Do a storm door comparison for prices at
NexTag. Go to
BizRate to find storm doors for sale from online stores.
Select an installer for your storm doors
Your staff may have neither the time nor the technical skills to install storm doors, though it is not beyond the skills of the average homeowner. If necessary, storm door suppliers may connect you with an installer. However, you may choose to find an installer through an online service.
I recommend: Home Blue will connect you with a contractor in your area.
Angie’s List provides contact information for contractors in larger metropolitan areas.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Before replacing the storm door, inspect the wood jamb and trim around the door opening to ensure it is secure and will support the weight of the new door.
- If using screens in storm doors, check with the dealer about the compatibility of the screen with the door. Combining aluminum storm doors with other types of metals, for example, can hasten corrosion.
The official source of Storm Doors is the Storm Doors page at Business.com
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