Today’s screen and storm doors come in many different varieties to suit different needs. They are available in various sizes, designs, screen systems, and constructions.
Before heading to your local home center to shop for a screen or storm door, be sure that you know what options are available so you can choose what is best for your entryway.
- Size – Screen and storm doors are available in widths of 30, 32, 34, and 36 inches. When deciding on the screen door that you need, measure the door opening between the door jambs and not the entry door that you already have.
- Customization – Screen and storm doors are available as pre-hung units that come in single and double-door sets. Some doors can also be customized, allowing you to choose your own door frame, glass, screen, and hardware.
- System and design – Some designs include clip-in glass that can be interchanged with insect screening, panels that bypass each other in tracks, or full glass panels. There are also mid-view and high-view types of doors.
- Construction – Screen and storm doors are constructed in different ways using different materials. Many are composed of a solid wood core with aluminum bonded on the skin. Some are vinyl-clad, and there are other types of composite doors as well.
- Other tips:
- Recognize quality by testing the door to see if it opens and closes swiftly and smoothly and if the corners and moldings are finished well.
- Look into the warranty of doors; some may provide a lifetime warranty.
- When planning on installing a screen or storm door, consider the brand or manufacturer of your entry door because some manufacturers offer screen or storm door kits that may better fit your threshold.
