We here at Clera are lovers of all things doors and windows so, technically we’d never turn down an opportunity to supply and install a high-quality functioning door or storm door. But, if the question is whether or not a storm door is absolutely necessary for everyone – we’d say generally, no it’s not. This depends on the needs and preferences of the homeowner. This is why we don’t always recommend the installation of storm doors to all our clients.
If you’re wondering if you should get a storm door, this guide covers everything you need to know. We’ll talk about what is a storm door along with what factors to consider when deciding if your home needs a storm door.
Let’s begin!
What is a Storm Door?
A storm door is a second, outer door commonly installed for protection against bad weather. Some storm doors also allow for added ventilation in fair weather. These versatile doors typically have interchangeable or retractable glass and screen panels and are available in many sizes and materials.
Having an interchangeable screen or glass panel is what differentiates storm doors from screen doors. Screen doors are only designed to hold a screen and are thus more lightweight in construction.
Storm doors have varying sizes of glass panels. Some storm doors may cover as much as half of the front door behind an opaque surface while some almost fully expose the front door behind glass. In any case, the reflection of light from the glass will make the front door less visible in broad daylight.
Are Storm Doors Really Necessary?
The burning question is “are storm doors really necessary?” To answer this question, storm doors may be necessary for you if…
- You want added style for your entryway
- Your door is not protected from the elements
- You want additional energy savings for your old front door
- You want to enjoy added ventilation and/or sunlight
- You want added security for your home
1. You Want Added Style For Your Entryway
If storm doors cover up the front door, how can they add more style to one’s entryway? The key to maximizing style (instead of dulling it) is to get a storm door that complements your front door well.
At Clera, we have various customization options for storm doors so that they seamlessly blend with various front door styles. In addition, opting for a storm door with a large glass portion will enable you to still show off a large portion of your front door. Some homeowners even prefer having the sheen of glass over their entryway because it gives a modern and sleek touch to the front door.
High-quality storm doors also help to preserve the vibrancy of your front door’s paint. Last but not least, if you’re a fan of door decor, these look absolutely stunning behind storm doors.
2. Your Front Door is Not Protected From the Elements
Some homes have a porch or an overhang that measures at least four by four feet which means that the door is pretty well protected from the elements. However, for homes that have a more exposed front door, getting a storm door would be recommended for you to protect your door from the elements.
3. You Want Additional Energy Savings for Your Old Front Door
Storm doors can save energy by regulating your home’s temperature year-round. The extra layer of home insulation reduces heat loss in the winter and keeps cool air inside when it’s warm outside. Adding a storm door can be a good investment if your existing door is old but still in relatively good condition and you’re not quite ready to take the plunge in replacing the entire door.
However, storm doors will only give minimal energy savings if your old front door is already in bad condition. Doors that are draft, leaky, or do not open or close properly may need to be replaced.
On the other hand, adding a storm door to a brand new, insulated door is generally NOT worth the expense, because you won’t have as much added energy savings.
4. You Want to Enjoy Added Ventilation and/or Sunlight
Storm doors generally have interchangeable glass panels and window screen panels. When the weather is nice, you can leave the front door open and have the screen panel on your storm door. This will provide visibility to the outside, give added ventilation, and let the natural light in while preventing flying insects from entering the home.
5. You Want Added Security For Your Home
Another benefit of storm doors is that it gives an added layer of security. High-quality storm doors come with their own locks which adds fortification to your front entryway. Though storm doors are generally not stronger than or as strong as high-quality front doors, they can still discourage break-ins. In fact, 34% of burglars simply twist the front doorknob and walk right into homes that they are breaking into. In this case, a storm door is the extra layer of protection that your home could use.
Even if a break-in occurs through the entryway, a locked storm door can slow perpetrators down, thereby buying precious time to call the authorities.
Get Reliable, Stylish, and Energy-Efficient Storm Doors from Clera
This wraps up our discussion on what is a storm door and are storm doors really necessary? If you’re still considering installing a storm door, we’d be happy to provide our insight on whether or not a storm door will benefit you.
We offer a wide range of storm door styles. We also offer numerous customization options so that you can get a storm door that matches your front door.
Over 41+ years, Clera Windows + Doors has transformed hundreds of homes with practical, stylish, and energy-efficient doors and windows. If you have questions or you’d like to learn more, reach out to us today!