Frequently Asked Questions About Storm Doors

Whether you’ve always had a storm door but need to replace and upgrade, or you’ve never had one and are curious or even skeptical, here’s all you need to know about storm doors. If you’re already looking into entry door installation in Cleveland, storm doors are a natural addition. 

At Fairview Home Improvement we aim to provide you with all the information you need to make the right decision for your Cleveland home improvement projects. Here we’ll discuss some of the more commonly asked storm door questions, but please get in touch with us if you want to know more!

What is a storm door?

A storm door is, as its name suggests, a door that can withstand seasonal onslaughts and keep on performing. As opposed to an entry door, a storm door is not a standalone door option but is made to be installed along with a steel or fiberglass entry door. A storm door helps to keep elements like wind, rain, and snow at bay and off of your main entry door. At the same time, they can often feature ventilation options for the milder seasons, so that you can also allow cool, refreshing breezes and sunlight into your home.

Storm doors typically have a heavy-duty aluminum frame with reinforcements to prevent damage. Many models include weatherstripping for reduced drafts and a range of hardware and locking mechanisms for an added layer of safety. A storm door allows you to enjoy the sights and sounds of the outdoors without letting too much of Mother Nature inside.

Is a storm door the same as a screen door?

No, a storm door is not the same as a screen door. While a storm door can incorporate screening for ventilation, not all do. Storm doors are purposely built to be far more durable than a traditional screen door. They also offer more robust insulative, security, and design elements than a screen door.

Do I need a storm door?

The answer will depend on your specific home and circumstances, but in general, a storm door can be highly beneficial for most modern homes. That’s especially true if your entry door is routinely exposed to harsh climatic conditions, like direct sun, rain, and more. Being in the direct line of prevailing winds and major weather events can put undue stress on your entry door, causing damage and requiring early replacement. But a storm door can protect your entry door, and if it’s made of wood, that’s vital to keep it in good working order for as long as possible. 

In rare cases where an entry door is already protected by a deep porch or overhang and you don’t wish to open your home to outside light and air, then perhaps a storm door isn’t necessary. However, in most cases, a storm door is a great idea, even if simply for enhanced safety and efficiency. Check in with our Cleveland home improvement specialists to learn whether a storm door is the right fit for your needs. And if you recently worked with Fairview Home Improvement for entry door installation in your Cleveland home, then a storm door is a top way to protect that investment while also adding to your home’s curb appeal.

What are the benefits of having a storm door?

Even if your entry door is serving you well and not in jeopardy, you may wish that you could let light and fresh air in without also allowing insects to enter your home. Again, a storm door is the ideal answer–it does everything a screen door can do but adds in more protection, insulation and safety benefits. A storm door is a durable and stylish solution when you need solid weather protection, energy efficiency and security but also want options for natural light, ventilation, and an enhanced aesthetic appeal.

Not only can a storm door shield your entry door from harsh weather, it can also help to insulate your home against temperature extremes. And that could mean reduced heating and cooling needs and longrun utility savings. For homeowners who are concerned about physical safety, having a sturdy, locking storm door can allow them to interact with others and carry on their daily activities with greater peace of mind. They can also help to block unwanted street noise in busy neighborhoods.

And though many times doors are used to shut out the sun, there are times of the year and the day when you may want those golden rays to permeate your indoor living spaces. A storm door can do that, allowing sunlight in while still offering UV protection. With the wide array of storm doors available, homeowners can also find a solution for their needs that meets their aesthetic requirements and adds to their home’s curb appeal. Storm doors have come a long way, and for peak versatility and the best of both worlds, they really can’t be beat.

What are the different types of storm doors?

Whatever your sizing or functional needs, there is a storm door for you. Choose from full-view doors that offer a large panel of glass for maximum visibility or opt for a partial-view model that features both glass and a metal panel of varying sizes and configurations. If added security is a top priority, then a security storm door that includes features like heavier-gauge metal, reinforced areas, and multi-point locking options is the way to go. Pet-friendly options are also available, allowing your furry friends to move between indoor and outdoor living spaces. Choose a ventilating storm door that operates similarly to a double-hung window for the most airflow. And for the utmost convenience and ease of use, choose a storm door with a retractable screen.

What material works best for storm doors?

The best materials for a storm door will be those that enhance its safety, durability, and functionality. These include corrosion resistant metal, like aluminum, that has been reinforced to retain shape, solidity and prevent damage or intrusion. Ample weatherstripping is also a good inclusion for the very best weather protection and energy efficiency. High-performing glass options that feature UV-blocking coatings, double pane windows or laminated glass will boost efficiency and functionality, keeping the outside where it belongs while still allowing you to enjoy natural sunlight indoors. Stylish and highly functional hardware with built in locking options finish off the look while also being very practical. On top of these practical concerns, there is also the aesthetic question of color. At Fairview Home Improvement we offer ProVia storm doors that feature professionally applied paint and polymer coatings in a range of tasteful colors that will remain vibrant for years to come, guaranteed.

What should I consider when choosing a storm door?

As mentioned, weather plays a big part in deciding which storm door is right for you. If your main entry door bears the brunt of wind and rain, then it needs to be extra tough. Choosing a door with a thicker gauge of aluminum is a good idea. If your location sees major swings in temperature, then ensuring that your door has all the insulative properties possible makes sense. And the amount and strength of sunlight you regularly receive and prefer indoors can also determine the percentage of glass you choose to include in your new storm door. Choosing the color is another important consideration–you could opt to match, coordinate with, or even contrast your existing entry door. 

How do I maintain a storm door?

Basic, regular cleaning is all that’s needed to keep your storm door looking its best. Their heavy duty construction and high quality finish will stand up to whatever comes their way, but periodic cleaning will ensure that they continue to function their best. A gentle soap and water solution can be used to remove any dirt and debris on the frame, and your glass cleaner of choice is perfect to clean any marks or dust from the glass panels. To clean screens, gently vacuum or brush off dirt and wipe as needed. Seasonal adjustment may be necessary to keep the closer at the ideal tension for smooth operation. Weatherstripping is made to last, but regular inspection will ensure that it’s in good shape and doing its job. From time to time, hardware may require lubrication to keep operating at its best. If you do discover any potential problems or needed repairs, reach out to the Cleveland home improvement professionals at Fairview–we’ll be happy to take a look.

What are good storm door brands?

There are many brands on the market, but the Cleveland home improvement specialists at Fairview work exclusively with ProVia® and Arch Angle doors, both when recommending and installing storm doors. They are crafted using durable aluminum and coated glass, offer various customization options, and include practical security and efficiency features. Arch Angle doors are specially designed to match unique home architecture.

Your Local Cleveland Home Improvement Professionals

A new storm door is an investment that can quickly boost protection, safety, energy efficiency and curb appeal. But there are a lot of options and decisions to make! Work with your local Cleveland home improvement experts at Fairview to make the process simple and stress-free. We’ll help you to find that just-right storm door and then do our utmost to efficiently handle your project.

You could be tempted to DIY your new storm door install, but trust us, it’s not worth it! The risks of improper installation far outweigh any upfront savings. Our trained and experienced team will ensure that your new storm door functions perfectly and looks great, now and in the future. 

Contact Fairview Home Improvement today for more information on expert storm door installation in Cleveland. Check out our portfolio to see our work and visit our testimonials page to hear what our customers have to say!