Storm doors are a useful tool for keeping your home warm in the winter, and they have benefits for the summer months, too. The best storm doors provide thermal insulation and protection against bugs and water ingress. Is your energy bill on the rise? Find out how a replacement storm door from Thompson Creek can save you money.
How Storm Doors Help You Save Energy
Storm doors are a secondary door that adds an extra layer of insulation. They fit outside of your main door and are often used to provide better insulation in homes with old doors that are drafty. However, some modern homes use storm doors coupled with an insulated entry door for added protection against the elements.
Storm doors are beneficial because they stop heat from getting out in the winter and prevent heat from entering during the summer. They make it easier to control the temperature in your home when it’s properly insulated.
Screen Doors vs. Storm Doors
Screen doors are secondary doors that aren’t airtight. They’re popular in parts of the country that see very warm summers because homeowners can open their entry doors to allow in more light or fresh air without letting in bugs.
In some ways, storm doors are an evolution of screen doors since many have interchangeable panes. They can be used as a screen door during the warmer months and protect against cold and rain during the cold or stormy months thanks to a quick swap of the screen and glazed glass insert.
Choosing the Best Storm Doors for Your Property
Storm doors are an excellent choice if you have an old entry door that isn’t energy-efficient and you don’t want to replace it. They’re also great if you want to swap out the glass insert for a screen during the summer months.
When choosing an energy-efficient storm door, consider the following:
- The storm door should hinge on the same side as your entry door
- It should be measured by a professional for a perfect fit
- It should have weather stripping for a tight seal
There are several types of door frames to choose from, including:
- Steel or aluminum for durability and strength
- Composite frames for environments with lots of moisture (for example, salt spray from the coast)
- Vinyl frames for weather resistance
You’ll also want to pay attention to the glass panel in the door. For best results, look for one with argon or a similar gas filling and a low-E coating that protects the entry door from exposure to excessive heat from the sun.
Screens can be made from galvanized steel, aluminum, fiberglass, or bronze. Fiberglass screens are relatively easy to install and reasonably durable. Aluminum is affordable and corrosion-resistant. Galvanized steel and bronze are longer-lasting but harder to install and expensive.
Contact Thompson Creek for Your Replacement Doors
If you’re a DIY enthusiast, you’ll most likely be able to fit your storm door yourself. However, the effectiveness of a storm door depends almost entirely on how well it fits the frame.
If you’re not confident in your ability to produce an airtight seal, it’s best to call in the professionals. Contact Thompson Creek today for a free estimate on the best storm doors available.