Downsides That May Make You Reconsider Installing A Storm Door

Does your front door need a storm door for extra protection? First, it's helpful to understand what a storm door is. It's not a standalone door but instead is meant to work with your main entry door. Storm doors typically have large fixed panels of glass, but some options have built-in screens or include the option to swap out the glass for screen panels. 

There are several reasons why you should install a storm door in many situations. It adds an extra layer of protection for your front door to prevent wear due to weather elements. Storm doors also add insulation and can help cut down on drafts to make your home more comfortable. Plus, when you open your front door, your storm door lets sunlight into your home and gives you a clear view of what's happening outside.

However, it's also important to consider the potential drawbacks, including the added costs of installing an extra door. You may not benefit much from a storm door if you already have a highly efficient front door or an overhang that protects your door. Storm doors can cause functional issues, such as lack of ventilation, heat getting trapped, and additional maintenance. Some people don't like the look of a storm door and prefer a clear view of the front door. Understanding the negatives of installing a storm door helps you decide if there are issues you can live with or if you want to skip the extra door.

Adding an extra door to your home can cause some functional issues, starting with trapped heat. The large glass panels that let in bright sunlight also let in the heat from those UV rays. On hot days, that heat can get trapped between the two doors and could potentially damage your main entry door. Consider the positioning of the door and how much direct sunlight it receives each day. Damage is more likely to happen if the sun hits the door for several hours daily. If you still want a storm door, look for options with low-emissivity glass or a built-in screen to limit built-up heat.

On storm doors with fixed glass panels, you don't get any ventilation from the door. You can open your main door to let the natural light into your home, but you won't get the fresh air. If this is a dealbreaker for you, choose a storm door with panels that you can swap so you can install a screen panel in the warmer months. Some doors also have retractable screens to allow for ventilation as needed. If ventilation is more important than protection, you might consider installing a screen door for your home instead of a storm door. This option is typically more affordable than a storm door and allows for lots of fresh air. 

A storm door serves a primarily functional purpose. While storm doors come in different styles and colors, you won't find many ornate details or unique style options. That can make your front door look boring since the storm door is what people notice first. If you have a show-stopping front door design with ornate detailing, the storm door can block many of those details, downplaying the beauty of the door. Installing a full-view storm door allows more of the decorative door to show since it's mainly glass. Mid-view and high-view storm doors feature solid panels on the lower portions. While those panels decrease the risk of the glass breaking and cut down on fingerprints, they also block the view of your treasured front door.

Having an extra door to open also affects the convenience of the entrance. Say your hands are full of groceries or you're carrying your child into the home. You're stuck wrestling with two doors instead of one while also juggling whatever you're holding. Some storm doors lock, which means you'll need to carry an extra key and unlock two doors instead of one when you get home. It's an extra step that you have to clear to get inside your home after a long day. So despite the benefits, there are a few downsides to keep in mind.