Installing a storm door is one of the best ways to enhance your home’s security, energy efficiency, and protection from the elements. Properly installing a quality storm door creates an airlock entryway that can lower your energy bills, prevent drafts, and keep out dust and insects. However, to reap these benefits, the storm door must be precisely measured and expertly mounted within the door frame. Rushing through installation or making mistakes in sizing and alignment can result in air leaks, premature wear, and storm door malfunctions.
If you’re wondering how to install a storm door, this article will walk you through the entire process, from assessing your needs to the installation steps. Additionally, we’ll cover the benefits of choosing a storm door with screen for added ventilation and insect protection. Following proper technique and paying close attention to details like weatherstripping will ensure your new storm door performs optimally for years. Let’s get started!
Do You Require a Storm Door?
The first step is deciding if a storm door is right for your home. Storm doors are ideal for homes that experience extreme weather, allowing you to reap energy savings while maintaining views and ventilation. Consider your climate and exposure – homes in very hot or cold regions benefit most. Storm doors also boost security and noise reduction. Evaluate your existing entry door – if it is thin, hollow, or has clear glass, a storm door can drastically improve its performance.
There are various styles of storm doors to suit different needs. Full-view glass storm doors provide weather protection while maintaining outward views. Retractable screen doors allow fresh air flow when desired. Combination storm doors with interchangeable glass and screen panels deliver ventilation flexibility. Measure your existing door opening carefully to ensure proper sizing.
What Storm Door Size Should You Choose?
Storm door sizing is critical for proper installation. Measure the height and width of your door frame opening carefully, including the depth of the door jamb. Standard storm door sizes include 32×80, 36×80, and 36×84 inches, but custom sizing is also available. Consult sizing charts and have a helper double-check measurements. Account for potential adjustments like shimming out the door jamb to accommodate the Z-bar door track. Precise measurements ensure a custom fit and optimal sealing.
When choosing porch storm doors or exterior storm doors, also consider the direction in which the door will swing. This dictates left-handed vs. right-handed storm door hinging. Interior and exterior knobs may need to be reversed to suit the specific installation needs. Ensuring accurate measurements and proper door swing direction will help achieve a secure and efficient storm door setup.
Preparing for the Installation of Storm Doors – Tools That You Need
Proper preparation is key to smooth storm door installation. Gather all necessary tools and materials beforehand, including:
- Power drill and drill bits
- Screwdrivers
- Tape measure and level
- Shims
- Caulk and weatherstripping
- Safety goggles and work gloves
Clear the workspace around the exterior door by moving any furnishings or decor out of the way. This gives you room to maneuver during mounting. If replacing an existing storm door, fully remove the old door and debris before installation.
You’ll also want to protect your interior door and surrounding walls from damage during the installation process. Cover the floor with drop cloths and apply painter’s tape along the door frame. This safeguards your home’s finish.
The work area is now clear and protected. Let’s move on to the actual storm door installation steps.
Installing the storm doors
Attaching the Hinges
Start by pre-drilling pilot holes in the door frame at the hinge locations. This prevents splitting the frame. Hold the hinge side Z-bar vertically in the frame opening. Use shims if needed for plumb alignment. Anchor the Z-bar securely using the provided screws.
Now attach the hinges to the storm door, one at a time. Hold the storm door to the installed Z-bar and align the hinge knuckles precisely. Anchor each hinge in place while maintaining proper weight support. Double-check that the door operates smoothly on the hinges before moving on.
Mounting the Door
With help from an assistant, carefully lift the storm door and position it correctly in the opening. Have them support the weight while you secure the latch side Z-bar like the hinge side. Maintain a consistent clearance gap between the Z-bars and door. Verify the door opens and closes freely without rubbing or dragging. Make any necessary adjustments.
Installing Hardware
Following the manufacturer’s instructions, install the handle set, lock mechanism, and other hardware using the pre-drilled holes. Use solid shims behind the strikes for reinforcement. Proper installation ensures smooth operation and security.
Finish by attaching the door sweep or bottom weatherstripping. This creates an air-tight seal along the bottom of the door. Carefully cut and fit it to the correct length.
Do you require a Storm Door Closer?
For convenience and consistency, you may want to install a door closer. This mechanism automatically closes the storm door behind you for added security and temperature control. There are several types of closers:
- Spring hinge closers are self-contained in the hinge. They provide basic automatic closing.
- Pneumatic tube closers use an internal piston for smooth, adjustable closing speed.
- Hydraulic closers are the strongest and allow the most control over closing force and speed.
Follow manufacturer instructions to install the closer in a suitable location. Adjust the closer tension as needed to overcome wind resistance while avoiding slamming. Properly adjusted closers are a useful addition.
How Much Does a Storm Door Cost? Budgeting for Safety
When it comes to adding an extra layer of protection and curb appeal to your home’s entryway, installing a storm door is a smart investment. Storm doors not only help insulate against energy loss, but they also provide a buffer against harsh weather conditions like wind, rain, and even hurricanes with specially designed hurricane screen doors. But how much should you budget for this home upgrade?
If you’re wondering how much is a storm door, the total cost for a new storm door installation can range anywhere from around $200 for a basic single-panel steel model to over $1,000 for a premium double storm door system. On average, most homeowners spend between $300 to $600 to have a mid-range storm door professionally installed.
When searching for storm doors for sale near me, some of the biggest factors that impact the overall cost include the door type and size, glass options, installation complexity, brand selection, and any added customizations like pet door inserts or specific requirements for hurricane-prone regions. For example, a storm door with screen and glass can offer versatile functionality and increased protection.
We invite you to reach out to one of our specialists so we can find solutions tailored to your needs and budget.
Storm Doors – Final Thoughts
Installing a storm door enhances your home’s security, energy efficiency, and protection from the elements. But to gain these benefits, the door must be sized, prepared, and installed properly at each step. Rushing through the process or taking shortcuts can lead to an improperly functioning door that fails prematurely.
When choosing a storm door, consider options like a glass storm door or a full glass exterior storm door to maximize natural light while maintaining protection. You can ensure optimal performance by carefully assessing your needs, precisely measuring the opening, and installing the door and components methodically. Take time to make adjustments so the door operates smoothly. Include features like door closers and security upgrades that meet your needs.
With proper installation, your high-quality storm door will provide security, savings, and trouble-free protection for many years to come. For more helpful tips on selecting the ideal door, visit the OKNOPLAST blog.
About the Author: Oknoplast Team
Products.
