When it comes to upgrading your entryway, several options are available. Some homeowners patch the concrete, while others add decorative outdoor furniture. If you’re looking for a more functional upgrade, you may want to consider investing in a storm or screen door. However, choosing between storm and screen doors might not be such a straightforward decision.
Each door offers unique benefits for your entryway, making it challenging to determine which one is the best fit for your needs. If you’re on the fence about whether storm or screen doors are the best addition to your property, keep reading to learn more about these popular entryway upgrade options.
Screen Doors: Let in Some Fresh Air
Screen doors are lightweight entryway doors typically made from aluminum or wood frames. They feature mesh panels that allow air to flow through your living space while keeping insects and other pests out. They’re ideal for homeowners who want fresh air without the hassle of bugs and other outdoor nuisances entering the home.
Some of the most significant benefits of adding screen doors to your home include:
- Improved Ventilation: With screen doors installed on your property, you can improve ventilation efforts, removing stale air and refreshing your living space.
- Affordability: Unlike some other options, a screen door is a great way to upgrade your home’s entryway without breaking the bank.
- Pest Control: If you love feeling a cool breeze in your home but are plagued by insects, these doors are a great way to keep them out.
- Easy Installation: These doors are often incredibly easy and quick to mount and install in your entryway.
Storm Doors: The Perfect Added Protection
Storm doors are a sturdier, multi-functional exterior door installed in front of your main door. These doors often have interchangeable or retractable glass or screen panels. When the weather is nice, you can enjoy a cool breeze, and then switch to the glass pane when inclement weather rolls into town.
There are many great reasons to consider installing storm doors on your property, including:
- Weather Protection: Storm doors provide an extra layer of protection from inclement weather while allowing more natural light to enter your living space.
- Energy Efficiency: These doors create an insulating layer, reducing your heat loss in winter and keeping cool air inside in summer.
- Security: If you want to ensure your security when you’re home, this door adds an extra layer of protection against unwelcome intruders.
- Versatility: When you invest in a storm door, you can enjoy the flexibility of weather protection and increased ventilation.
Which is Best for Your Home?
If you’re still unsure whether storm or screen doors are best for your home, there are a few things you can consider, including:
- Your Climate: If you live in an area that experiences frequent inclement weather, such as heavy rain, strong winds, and frequent snow, it may be best to install a storm door that provides year-round protection.
- Airflow or Insulation: Homeowners who want to prioritize ventilation often benefit most from installing screen doors, while storm doors do a great job of keeping out unwanted hot or cool air throughout the year.
- Front Door Exposure: If your main door gets direct sunlight or is exposed to strong winds and rain, you may want to consider investing in a storm door to protect it and avoid premature replacement.
- Home Style: Both screen doors and storm doors are available in a variety of styles and finishes to complement your home. Discuss your door installation options with your installer to determine which one is best suited for your property.
In some cases, it may be best to speak to a local door installer about their recommendations. With their understanding of your climate and the choices made by people in your area, you can trust that you’ll make the best investment in your property.
Door Maintenance After Installation
After installing new storm or screen doors on your property, it’s essential to take proper care of these doors to avoid premature breakdown or damage. There are several ways to ensure these doors are well-maintained.
Screen Doors
- Lubricate Hinges: You should lubricate the hinges on your new screen door every six months or when your door becomes squeaky or stiff.
- Repair Damaged Screen: You can’t enjoy increased ventilation with a torn screen. If damage occurs, ensure that you quickly repair or replace the screen.
- Address Scuffs and Debris: If there are scuffs or signs of debris buildup on your door, wipe it down to ensure your door looks its best.
- Adjust Closer: For doors that close too quickly, consider adjusting the closer to allow for a gentler closing motion.
Storm Doors
- Inspect Weather Stripping: Conduct a thorough inspection of the weather stripping every six months to ensure the door remains properly sealed.
- Rinse Debris Buildup: When dirt, dust, and debris accumulate on the door, rinse it to keep it looking its best.
- Tighten Screws as Needed: If you notice the door coming loose or functioning improperly, ensure that all the appropriate screws are tightened.
- Clean Glass: As a part of your regular cleaning, make sure to remove any smudges from the glass panes of your storm door.
High-Quality Doors for Your Home
Choosing between storm and screen doors for your home can be difficult, but with seasoned professionals on your side, the decision process becomes much easier. If you’re looking for a reliable team to help you find the perfect doors for your home, turn to our Valley Glass team in Salt Lake City, Ogden, Boise, or Idaho Falls for support.
For over 70 years, our team has provided homeowners and businesses across the area with the highest quality doors for their homes. Whether a storm door or screen door is best for your property, we’re dedicated to creating the perfect door for your space. With it installed, your home will look more beautiful than ever before.
If you have any questions about our storm and screen doors or would like to schedule an installation for your home, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.