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Storm Door Buying Guide |
What do you picture when you think of storm doors? If you think of flimsy aluminum doors that clatter closed, it's time for an update. Like sneakers, ice cream, and coffee, storm doors have gone upscale.
Though most storm doors are made by only a handful of companies, each major manufacturer offers several lines of doors and, within each line, scores of models. Larson Manufacturing, for example has seven lines with a total of more than 40 models, ranging in price from $79 to $450. Cole Sewell's line is similar, ranging from $99 to $400. With all doors, the basic construction is the same—it's the bells and whistles that are different. On the $400 door, for example, you might get special hardware, a keyed exterior deadbolt, decorative moulding, two door closers instead of one, and special glazing.
Most storm doors are sold as pre-hung units in standard door widths: 30, 32, 34, and 36 inches. They may be hinged on either side, and double-door kits are available. These pre-framed modules are relatively easy to screw onto existing door jambs; a do-it-yourselfer with reasonable skills can generally install one in an afternoon. (When buying one, be sure you get the right size; measure the door's opening between the door jambs, not the size of the door.)
The major manufacturers also offer design-your-own-door programs, where you can mix and match components. Larson's Designer Door series lets consumers pick the frame and its color, and then choose from six styles of glass and six styles of designer hardware. You leave the store with three boxes: door frame, glass and hardware. Both Cole Sewell and EMCO have similar programs.
When choosing a storm door, one of your first choices will be the type and size of window and screen system. Many are made so that you can remove and replace the clip-in glass panels with insect screening, and vice versa. Some have panels that bypass each other in tracks. Still others are made so that the unused panel stores in the door. EMCO has a patented self-storing window that easily slides down inside the door, out of view.
A full-height glass panel is best if you want to display your front door or maximize light and views through the storm door. More common is the mid-view type of door that has a solid panel at the bottom third of the door; this gives you more ventilation control because you can open or close each section independently. A high-view door is similar, but the glazed section only extends to about half the door's height.
Another key issue is the door's construction. All major storm-door makers produce doors that have a solid-wood core clad with a permanently bonded skin of aluminum that has been given a baked-on enamel finish. The wood core makes these doors feel sturdy; they don't twist, rattle, or dent. The aluminum surface is nearly maintenance-free but can scratch.
A newer technology is a composite door called the Forever Ultra-Core, made by EMCO. The material is very tough, with a molded-through color, so if the door is scratched the color still remains. The door is also impervious to water. This door ranges in price from $155 to $190.
Larson also makes a 1 1/2-inch heavy-gauge foam-filled aluminum door, called Classic View, that is lighter in weight and allows for a full-frame glass panel—a good choice if you want to show off your prime door. If you want the storm door to be the main focus, it's offered in eight colors. You can get it with any of several glazings and fitted with solid-brass levers and keyed locks. These doors cost from $200 to $250.
Vinyl-clad doors tend to be less-expensive—in the $75 to $150 range. Some people like the fact that vinyl doesn't rust and scratches barely show. On the other hand, vinyl doesn't have the durable feel of aluminum cladding, and vinyl-clad doors are often warranted for only 5 years or less.
If security is an important issue, you'll want to opt for substance over style. Security doors often have a heavy-duty aluminum frame with a foam or solid-wood core. Choose heavy-gauge aluminum bars, designed to withstand pulling forces greater than 250 pounds or—better yet—steel bars that have been welded in place. Hinges and deadbolts should be tamper-proof.
Storm doors are sold through home centers, lumberyards, and major home improvement chains. You can also look up door and window companies online or in the telephone directory. In all but the warmest regions, large chains typically have a broad selection, often 20 to 25 models on display and then additional offerings through catalogs. Larson offers its entire line in a point-of-purchase display and promises delivery of special orders in two weeks or less.
How do you recognize a quality door? First, feel the door, and feel how it opens and closes. A quality door will have more heft, it will close more smoothly, and you will see quality of construction. The corners and mouldings will be tight and finished looking. Also pay attention to the warranty; the best doors have a limited lifetime warranty.
And last but not least, before buying any storm door, check to see if the manufacturer of the door in your home also provides a door kit for storms and screens. This is an especially good idea if you have a sliding or French door. The kit will not only match the design of the door, but it will also fit properly over the threshold.
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