Besides keeping winter drafts from compromising the warmth inside of your house, storm doors can also provide added protection to a home with deadbolt locks and protective grilles. Designed to withstand great pressure and tough weather conditions, the storm doors on the market today are created with increasing appeal, making it a suitable addition to the home both inside and out.
When looking to enter a do-it-yourself project that involves the installation of a home security storm door, it is recommended to consider the following factors:
Screens and Panels/u>
Storm doors come with varying blends of screen and glass panels, where you can even choose models that offer removable panels that are changeable with the seasons. If you expect your storm door to endure a great deal of direct sunlight, it is suggested to switch over screens early in the spring, then replace with glass panels at the end of the fall.
When looking to stick to a budget, galvanized steel screens tend to cost less, which are always highly resistant to tearing and holes. However, galvanized coating can wear off and will require a yearly application of lubricant to prevent rust. Aluminum screens are known to defy corrosion, but tend to darken in locations with high smog levels. Yet, a commercial spray can increase protection.
One of the most durable storm door screens is comprised of bronze, but many homeowners overlook these options because they are also the most expensive. A thin coat of varnish will aid in increasing resistance against corrosion in bronze storm doors. A fiberglass screen will resist corrosion and are rather easy to install. They also make great replacement screens when a metal unit begins to weaken.
Security Features/u>
A storm door that offers a protective grille or deadbolt lock can deliver added security. However, it is suggested to scan the market for various brands, as there are more safety measures to consider before making a final purchase. When conducting research – be on the lookout for laminated security glass and multi-point locking systems.
Operation/u>
As you scan the different models of storm doors on display, it is wise to check out all components. A nice place to start is by opening and closing doors to see how smoothly the hinges and latches operate. In order to enjoy a long life with your door, consider settling on the highest quality and trusted brands that fit within your budget.
Appropriate Fit
The majority of storm door units have the capacity for adjustments to create a decent fit within a door frame. Depending on the manufacturer, you will receive varied results. If you're not sure on the best size door for your home, you can always ask a professional – like an employee at the local Lowe's or Home Depot.
Before taking a trip to the hardware store, measure the height and width of your door frame. Take down the measurements of the space located between the exterior pieces (not the inner door jamb). If you are told that your opening is too big for a standard door, you can purchase a X-bar extender that fills in the extra space found between the door and frame. This is a less expensive way to handle this issue. Another approach is to order a custom-made storm door instead.
Before installing your storm door, it is a must to inspect the wood jamb and trim around your door opening. It needs to appear secure and possess the capacity to support the weight of the door. A level will tell you whether or not the door frame is square. Shims (pieces of wood or aluminum) can also help ensure a proper fit.
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