Popular searches in the Ashburn area:

• Windows
• Siding
• Kitchens
• Bathrooms
• Roofing
• Basements
• Cabinets
• -- More Projects -- Air Conditioning Bathroom Remodeling Basement Remodeling Cabinet Installation Cabinet Refacing Countertops Custom Homes Decks Doors Fencing Flooring Garage Doors Gutters Heating Kitchen Remodeling Landscaping Painting Roofing Room Additions Siding Sunrooms Windows

Remodeling Ideas Home » Wading Through the Storm Door Options

Wading Through the Storm Door Options

March 11, 2010

Storm doors offer many benefits for your home. They improve security and offer a nice view, while optional screens allow fresh air to circulate. In addition, storm doors with the Energy Star label might help lower your energy bills and qualify for a tax credit or rebate.

Choosing the Best Storm Door

Not sure where to start when choosing a screen door? This quick primer can help:

• The vast majority of storm doors are sold as pre-hung units. Someone handy with a screwdriver could install a new storm door in an afternoon, though more expensive or heavy doors might need professional installation. Measure your door before you go shopping; most pre-hung doors are available in 30-, 32-, 34-, and 36-inch sizes.
• Most storm doors offer window screens. In some cases, the glass panel can be clipped out and replaced with the screen. Many models offer screens that slide on tracks alongside the glass panels, and can be opened and closed with a simple flick of the wrist. Other versions offer hidden screens, which can be slid into the lower panel of the door for storage.
• When you purchase a screen door, you aren't limited to what is in the box. Many companies offer mix-and-match purchases. You choose the door, then the glass, and then the hardware--there are several options for each.
• Consider the construction of your storm door. Cheaper models are usually made of vinyl, and though they might look good, they don't come with promising warranties. A solid wood core with an aluminum coating is a popular and sturdy option. Composite doors are very tough and last for a long time, but come at a higher price.
• Do you want a storm door that adds security to your home? Consider security storm doors with a wood core and heavy-duty aluminum frame. You can also opt for aluminum bars, which are both secure and decorative. A secure storm door should have excellent locking capability, as well.
• Look at the warranty. The best storm doors have a lifetime warranty, and are made by a company that has been around long enough to back it up!

When you choose your storm door, don't forget to ask about a door kit. Several pre-hung storm doors come with a kit in the box, but if you aren't sure, ask! Purchasing a door kit from the same manufacturer can ensure your door's seamless performance.

 

About the author: Shannon Dauphin is a freelance writer based near Nashville, Tennessee. Her house was built in 1901, so home repair and renovation have become her hobbies.