Considering a storm door installation can be a practical enhancement to any home, providing additional protection against the elements while improving energy efficiency and natural light. Whether you’re looking to increase ventilation, boost security, or enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal, understanding the installation process and the factors that influence the overall cost are crucial. This article offers a comprehensive overview of what homeowners should know before adding a storm door to their property.
What Are Storm Doors?
A storm door is a type of door that helps protect and insulate the entryway to your home. Installed in front of an exterior door, a storm door is available in several materials, types, and sizes to accommodate most standard door frame dimensions.
Different types of storm doors are appropriate for different climate conditions. The most durable models protect your exterior door from weather damage, improve your home’s energy efficiency, and enhance your comfort.
Here is a breakdown of storm door installation costs, types of storm doors, and factors that impact the price you pay.
How Much Does Storm Door Installation Cost?
The average cost to install a storm door on your home is $250 to $1,500. While storm door installation is usually less complex than an exterior door, expect it to take between two and four hours to complete. Labor costs vary depending on your area’s local rates, but expect to pay between $50 to $100 per hour for installation. Installation by a handyman will usually cost less than a professional door installer or general contractor.
Storm Door Installation
Average Installation Cost $250 to $1,500
Cost Breakdown
- Materials 22.2%
- Labor 77.8%
Factors That Affect Storm Door Installation Cost
How much a storm door costs to install depends on several factors. Here are the most common things that will affect the price you pay:
Material: Vinyl is the least expensive storm door framing material, followed by wood core and aluminum.
Brand: The most common storm door manufacturers include Andersen, Pella, and Larsen. Each brand features a range of storm door types with various proprietary features that impact the product cost.
Glass: Energy-efficient low E glass or laminated safety glass costs more on average than traditional glazing. Any embellishments or decorative features also increase costs, like beveled, frosted, or etched glass.
Size and operation: Larger storm doors are more expensive than smaller models. Storm doors with a single pneumatic or hydraulic closer will cost less than a door with two (one each on the top and bottom).
Security features: Storm door handles, latches, and locks vary from manufacturer to model. The most basic model includes a simple pull handle without a lock, while more secure storm doors feature handle sets with more security features. Here are several common door handles and locks available with storm doors:
- Latches
- Knobs
- Pull handles
- Mortise locks
- Push button locks
- Deadbolt locks
Pet door: Many storm door models offer an optional pet door with a retractable cover and lock for security.
DIY vs. Professional Installation: If you are an experienced DIYer, you could save $100 to $400 by installing the storm door yourself.
Pros and Cons of Storm Doors
While storm doors offer many functional and aesthetic benefits, they may not be right for everyone. Here are some of the more common advantages and disadvantages of installing a storm door:
-
Pros
- Prevents Moisture Build-Up
- Improves Energy Efficiency, Ventilation, and Pest Control
- Less Expensive Than Security Doors
-
Cons
- Inconvenient
- Could Decrease Curb Appeal
- Requires Maintenance
Pros
- Prevents Moisture Build-Up: Storm doors are designed to keep out moisture, reducing the risk of water damage to your main entry door.
- Improves Energy Efficiency: Installing a storm door helps to create an additional layer of insulation, enhancing your home’s overall energy efficiency.
- Increases Ventilation: These doors can be fitted with screens, allowing you to enjoy increased airflow without letting in insects.
- Less Expensive Than Security Doors: Storm doors are generally more affordable than full security doors, making them a cost-effective option.
- Offers Pest Protection: The addition of a storm door can help prevent pests from entering your home while still allowing you to enjoy fresh air.
- Increases Home’s Natural Light: With their glass panels, storm doors allow more natural light into your home, brightening your entryway.
Cons
- May Be Inconvenient: Storm doors can sometimes be cumbersome to open and close, especially if carrying items in and out of the house.
- Could Decrease Curb Appeal: Depending on the design and compatibility with your home’s aesthetic, a storm door may detract from the overall curb appeal.
- Potentially Traps Heat: In warmer climates, a storm door can trap heat between itself and the entry door, potentially causing damage or discomfort.
- Requires Maintenance: Like all exterior doors, storm doors require regular maintenance to ensure they remain effective and visually appealing.
Your geographic region and climate will largely determine the most appropriate storm door model for your home. Since storm doors are susceptible to the elements, consider the weather in your area before choosing one. For example, if you live in an area with lots of sunshine and hot summers, a wood core storm door in white or off-white will help block heat while letting in natural light. In harsher winter weather, a durable aluminum-framed model protects your front door from snow buildup and rain.
Types of Storm Doors and Their Costs
| Storm Door Type | Average Cost to Install |
|---|---|
| Full-View Storm Door | $340 to $1,500 |
| Mid-View Storm Door | $280 to $1,030 |
| High-View Storm Door | $300 to $650 |
| Pet Storm Door | $400 to $900 |
Most storm doors are manufactured with an aluminum, wood core, or vinyl framing material. Solid wood and steel storm doors are less common but are available. Several standard types of storm door designs are available to meet most needs and preferences:
Full-View Storm Doors
A full-view storm door features glass from top to bottom. Many manufacturers include an interchangeable screen to increase airflow during the warmer months. If you love the look of your exterior door and are reluctant to cover it up, a full-view model is a good choice. It also increases the amount of natural light in your entryway.
Mid-View Storm Doors
In a mid-view storm door, the glass fills approximately two thirds of the frame. The bottom section of the door may also include a kickplate offering more protection from foot traffic.
High-View Storm Doors
A high-view storm door features a pane of glass on the top portion of the door and a panel on the bottom. This type of storm door is typically the sturdiest and offers the most protection from harsh weather conditions.
Pet Storm Doors
Pet storm doors are either full view or mid view designs that include a bottom cutout panel for easy outdoor access. Most models include a lockable slide-in panel cover when the pet door is not in use.
Storm Door Dimensions and Options
Like French doors or sliding glass doors, storm doors can be purchased in several standard sizes that fit most homes’ exterior doors. Some models feature energy efficient and decorative features to enhance energy efficiency and curb appeal.
Standard Storm Door Sizes
Typical storm door widths range from 30” to 36” and a height of 80” or 81”. Custom sizes are also available at an additional cost.
- 30 x 80
- 30 x 81
- 32 x 80
- 32 x 81
- 34 x 80
- 34 x 81
- 36 x 80
- 36 x 81
- 36 x 96
Storm Door Options
Most storm door models include weatherstripping to prevent air leaks and can open from the right or left to match your exterior door. Beyond that, storm doors come with a few functional and decorative options.
Retractable Screens: Most storm door manufacturers offer retractable screens that are stored in the body of the door panel and conveniently pop in place of the glass.
Low-E Glass: Homes with west-facing doors in warmer climates will benefit from low-E glass that protects entryways from intense afternoon sun.
Decorative Glass: Beveled, frosted, or etched glass can enhance your home’s character and curb appeal.
Find a Professional Storm Door Installer
Most storm doors are sold pre-hung on their frames and can be installed using tools you may already have in your garage. While storm door installation is a relatively straightforward project, it requires precise measurements, specific equipment, and a few hours of your time. If you prefer the ease and convenience of professional storm door installation, let Modernize connect you with local installers for a project quote.
