When it comes to upgrading your home’s entrance, you might be facing the dilemma of choosing from two options: storm door vs. screen door. Both serve as additional layers of protection for your main entry door, but they cater to different needs and preferences. It’s also clear that the levels of protection they provide are very different. Choosing between a storm door and a screen door depends on many factors, which makes deciding more difficult. Buying a screen door depends not only on budget but also on your house type, your family habits, your location, and your climate.
In this article, we’ll take a close look at storm doors and screen doors, including the considerations for purchasing them. By the time you finish reading, we hope to help you make an informed decision for your home and what is best for your family’s needs.
Key Takeaways
- Screen doors allow natural ventilation and a good amount of sunlight while shielding you from insects, bugs, and other parasites.
- Screen doors are more stylish and keep a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Storm doors offer more protection and energy efficiency.
- Storm doors can come with a retractable screen, which offers both the benefits of storm doors and screen doors.
- Both storm doors and screen doors can include a pet-friendly door.
- Screen doors cost less than storm doors and are easier to install.
What Do Screen Doors Do?
Screen doors are a popular choice for homeowners who prioritize fresh air, natural light, and a connection to the outdoors. They are also ideal for temperate climates where extreme weather is not a significant concern. These doors are typically made with wooden or aluminum frames and feature mesh screens. The mesh screens are usually made of fiberglass or aluminum, which allows optimal airflow while keeping insects at bay. If insects are a major concern in your area, a screen door with a tight-fitting mesh is crucial. Look for durable screens that can withstand wear and tear over time.
The primary purpose of a screen door is to allow ventilation while keeping insects and debris out of your home, especially during warmer months when you want to enjoy a breeze without sacrificing security. Screen doors also let in natural light, brightening your entryway and creating a more welcoming atmosphere.
What makes screen doors more appealing to homeowners is that they come in a variety of styles and designs. You can choose one that complements the architecture and aesthetics of your home. For example, wooden screen doors can add a touch of traditional charm and warmth to your entryway. Screen doors made of aluminum, on the other hand, provide a modern look, which still perfectly blends into your door. Among the many types of screen doors, retractable screen doors have been a popular choice for homeowners because of their compact design, literally disappearing when not in use. If you have been eyeing to install a retractable screen door for your home, check out our retractable screen doors for French doors or double doors, single doors, and sliding doors, which are all available in powder-coated finishes.
If you have a pet and want it to come in and out of your door by itself, screen doors can be installed with a pet flap spanning from the center to the bottom door part. Some screen doors come with a pre-installed pet door that provides dogs and cats easy access to the outdoors. In either case, strong wire screens are recommended for optimal durability and also for your pet’s safety.
Compared to storm doors, screen doors are lightweight, making them easier to install. They also have simpler components and only require basic tools, which makes the installation process a breeze. This allows DIY enthusiasts to complete the installation themselves without hassle.
What Do Storm Doors Offer?
Storm doors are sturdy and protective additions to your home’s entryway. Typically made of metal or aluminum frames, these doors provide an extra layer of security. They are durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions such as heavy rainfalls and cold winters. If you live in areas experiencing extreme weather, a storm door can be a great option for your home, as it could also extend the life of your main entry door by shielding it from the strong impact of different weather elements.
In addition to weather protection, storm doors come with more security features that could discourage potential intruders from executing their plan of breaking into your house. Most storm doors have reinforced locks and deadbolts for another layer of home security. They are equipped with heavy-duty hardware, first and foremost, for security but also to withstand repeated daily use.
Storm doors commonly have glass panels with their sizes depending on the storm view type such as full view, mid-view, and high view. While the primary purpose of storm doors is to provide protection, many models come with ventilation options. Recently, storm doors with retractable screens have come out. This innovative design allows for interchanging the glass panel and screen use. When the season calls for ventilation, you can easily transition to having a fully screened door if you have a full-view storm door. During summer, when you are all sweaty and feeling hot, a storm door could still serve you well.
Besides these, didn’t you know that they also have energy-efficiency features? Yes, you got it right! Some storm doors have a core of foam insulation, which contributes to improved energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer. Additionally, the tight seals on storm doors help in reducing drafts. By preventing drafts and reducing heat transfer, storm doors help maintain a more consistent indoor temperature.
Storm doors are also pet-friendly. There are storm door styles that come with built-in pet doors. This option is convenient if you don’t want to spare time cutting out the center of your storm exacting to the size of the pet door frame.
Making the Right Choice: Storm Door vs. Screen Door
In the storm doors vs. screen doors selection, the right choice depends on your specific needs, climate, and personal preferences. If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions and prioritize added security, a storm door may be the optimal choice. On the other hand, if you seek a cost-effective solution for enjoying fresh air and natural light, especially in milder climates, a screen door could be the perfect fit.
While storm doors offer enhanced protection and security, they can be more expensive than screen doors, especially the storm door models integrated with retractable screens. Having more parts means added product cost.
Stand-alone screen doors are generally more budget-friendly than storm doors. Additionally, their simpler installation process makes them a practical choice for homeowners who prefer a DIY approach. Consider your budget and weigh the benefits of added durability and security against the cost.
Ultimately, both storm doors and screen doors contribute to the overall functionality and aesthetics of your home’s entrance. They also can both have pet flaps for your dearest pets’ easy access to the outdoors without your supervision. Carefully weigh the features and considerations we outlined in this article to guide you toward the door that aligns with your priorities.
