Storm Doors: Types, Benefits, and Choosing the Right One

Storm doors protect your entry door while providing insulation and ventilation options. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, choosing the right storm door depends on your entry door and how you use it.

Storm Door Configurations

According to DOE, common storm door types:

Full-View Glass

Features: Large glass panel from top to near bottom
Advantages:

• Maximum light
• Shows off decorative entry door
• Clean, modern appearance

Best for: Decorative entry doors, southern exposures

Ventilating (Half-Screen)

Features: Glass panel at top, screen at bottom (or interchangeable)
Advantages:

• Ventilation without opening entry door
• Screen keeps insects out
• Flexible seasonal use

Best for: Homes wanting fresh air, mild climates

Retractable Screen

Features: Screen rolls up when not in use
Advantages:

• Full view when screen retracted
• Ventilation when needed
• Best of both worlds

Best for: Maximum flexibility

Self-Storing

Features: Glass panels slide behind screen panel
Advantages:

• No seasonal panel changes
• Always ready for either function

Best for: Convenience-focused homeowners

Glass Options

According to DOE and ENERGY STAR:

| Glass Type | Benefits | Cost |
|------------|----------|------|
| Clear | Maximum light, basic protection | $ |
| Low-E | Better insulation, UV protection | $$ |
| Tempered | Safety code compliant | Standard |
| Decorative | Privacy, style options | $$$ |

When Storm Doors Make Sense

According to DOE:

Good candidates:

• North-facing entries (protected from direct sun)
• Old or uninsulated entry doors
• Entries where you want ventilation
• Security screen applications

Poor candidates:

• South/west-facing entries with direct sun (can overheat)
• New insulated entry doors (minimal benefit)
• Entries with storm coverage (covered porch)

The Overheating Warning

According to DOE, storm doors on sun-exposed entries can:

• Trap excessive heat
• Damage entry door finish
• Void entry door warranty
• Warp fiberglass or steel doors

Check your entry door manufacturer's warranty before adding a storm door to sun-exposed entries.

Features to Consider

According to ENERGY STAR:

Adjustable-speed closers: Prevent slamming
Weatherstripping: Foam or felt seals at all edges
Safety glass: Required by code for doors
Keyed locks: For security when main door is open
Pet door compatibility: Pre-cut options available

Installation Considerations

According to DOE:

• Must fit entry frame precisely
• Standard sizes: 32", 34", 36" widths
• Custom sizing available at premium
• Professional installation recommended for best seal

The Bottom Line

Storm doors provide value when matched to the right situation. According to DOE, they work best on protected, north-facing entries with older doors. For sun-exposed entries with new insulated doors, they may cause more problems than they solve.

*For complete guidance, see: [Storm Windows and Doors](/guides/storm-windows-doors)*