Storm Doors
Adding a storm door is a good investment if your existing door is old, but still in good condition.
Keep these facts in mind as you shop:
Frames: Frames are usually made of aluminum, steel, fiberglass, or wood (painted or not). Wooden storm doors require more maintenance than the other types. Tip: An aluminum frame with an anodized or baked enamel finish resists oxidation better than plain aluminum. Metal-framed storm doors and windows might have foam insulation in their frames.
Glass and Screens: Some combination storm doors have self-storing pockets for the glass in summer, and an insect screen for the winter. Some glass and screen panels are easily removed for cleaning, others are not. High quality storm doors and windows use low-e glass. Tip: Never add a glass storm door if the door gets more than a few hours of direct sun each day. The glass will trap too much heat against the entry door and possibly damage it.
Other considerations: Check that weather stripping material will stay flexible under extreme weather conditions. Evaluate the quality of locks, hinges, and catches, since they have a direct effect on durability.
Installation: If you install the storm doors yourself, you'll need some tools: hammer, drill, screwdriver, and weather stripping. In most cases, it will be easier to have the supplier install your doors himself.
The supplier, or you as the installer, must measure all the doors where you want storm doors installed. It will take anywhere from several days to a few weeks to make up custom sizes and install the storm doors. Installation should take less than one-half day.
Before the installer leaves, be sure the doors operate smoothly and close tightly. Check for cracks around the jamb and make sure the seal is as airtight as possible. Also, remove and replace the exchangeable panels (window and screen) to make sure they fit properly and with a weather tight seal.
Sources: Dept of Energy Consumer Info Fact Sheet; doityourself.com
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