Do You Really Need a Storm Door?

Storm doors are an excellent option for homeowners looking to protect their entryway from weather damage and to improve ventilation. By installing a storm door, you can leave your entrance door open while providing sunlight, airflow, and element protection. 

Storm doors are a type of exterior door installed in front of an entry door. They often include glass panels that can be replaced with screen panels or have retractable screens that can be uncovered by lowering the glass. 

Although these doors come with great benefits, there are also drawbacks. In this article we will explore the pros and cons, as well as an alternative so you can decide if the storm door is for you. 

Why You Should Keep a Storm Door 

The usage of storm doors has been around for decades, and with good purpose. The main reasons why you should keep a storm door are to protect your entryway from weather elements such as snow, to improve your home’s insulation, and to add ventilation to your home.  

1. Protection from Weather

Storm doors are designed to shield your main door from harsh elements like rain, wind, snow, and even strong sunlight. This can help preserve the longevity of your entry door, especially in regions that are prone to experiencing harsh winters or heavy storms.

2. Improved Insulation 

Acting as an extra layer of insulation, storm doors help reduce heat loss during the winter.  This is achieved when both the entry door and storm door stay closed. 

Insulation Diagram From Semantic Scholar

3. Added Ventilation 

Storm doors provide more airflow into the home, contributing to better indoor air quality by allowing fresh air to circulate. They allow you to let air in without leaving your full entryway open, protecting your home from rain or other elements. This is useful in summer months when it’s hotter outside. 
 

Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Keep a Storm Door 

  Although the benefits to owning a storm door are enticing, there are numerous problems that arise over time with owning these doors. Some issues include heat damage, difficult spacing, and more.  

1. Heat Buildup

Even though storm doors help insulation, it can cause damage to your entry door as well. If your door is exposed to direct sunlight for more than two hours a day, the storm door can trap heat which will damage your entry door. Heat-related damages include material warping, paint peeling, or surface damage to wooden and composite doors. 

 
2. Added Maintenance Costs

Storm doors require lots of upkeep, such as cleaning and maintenance repairs which quickly add up. The primary replacement points are the hinges and locks which are costly. These doors are known to break down after years of regular wear and tear.  

 
3. Space and Aesthetic Concerns

With the additional door in the entryway, both the storm and entrance door have to swing in opposite directions. This makes leaving your home slightly more difficult. In a fast-paced world, these doors add an extra step to what should be a simple part of our day.  

 
4. Outdated Concept

Storm doors have a long history of use, yet they are bulky and begin to lose popularity compared to other modern options. With energy-efficient doors, door sweeps, door vents, and other insulation options, storm doors have slowly become less favored.  

 
Deciding What's Best For Your Home 

While storm doors are a good add to your entrance way, there are more practical options such as door vents. Door vents provide sunlight, ventilation, and a screen to keep bugs out of your home. Not to mention that they are compact, stylish, and avoid a constricted entryway.  
 
At the end of the day, the decision whether to make the change is based on the style of your home and personal preference. If you would like to read more articles like this, follow for more.