Screen Door vs. Storm Door: What’s the Difference?
Both storm doors and screen doors are installed outside an exterior entry door. The main differences between a screen door and storm door are the amount of protection they provide and how they're designed to be used.
Storm Doors
- A storm door provides an additional layer between your exterior door and the weather. Most include glass panels, screens or a combination of the two, allowing you to balance weather protection, outdoor views and ventilation.
- Weatherstripping and glass can also help reduce drafts around the entry. Some models feature Low-E glass, which helps control heat transfer and can improve the insulating performance of the entryway.
- Many storm doors let you switch between glass and screens seasonally. Others have self-storing or retractable screens that make it easy to bring in fresh air when the weather is comfortable.
Screen Doors
- A screen door uses mesh or screening to allow airflow while helping to keep insects and debris outside. Unlike a storm door, a standard screen door isn't designed to provide significant weather protection or insulation.
- Screen doors are a good option when ventilation is the main priority and you don't need the additional weather protection of a storm door.
Picking the Right Option
Consider how you want your entryway to function before choosing between a storm door and screen door.
Weather Protection: Choose a storm door if you want additional protection for your exterior entry door from rain, snow, wind and debris. A screen door is better suited for applications where ventilation is the primary goal.
Ventilation: Both doors can provide ventilation. A screen door provides continuous airflow when the exterior door is open. Many storm doors also include interchangeable, retractable or self-storing screens, giving you the flexibility to switch between ventilation and weather protection.
Energy Efficiency: A properly installed storm door can add another insulating layer to an entryway and help reduce drafts. For greater energy efficiency, consider a Low-E storm door. Low-emissivity glass is designed to limit heat transfer while still allowing natural light through.
Features: Compare features such as built-in pet doors, retractable screens, interchangeable glass panels, door closers, handles and locking systems.
Installation: Many storm doors and screen doors are suitable for DIY installation. Before buying, carefully measure the opening and check the manufacturer's sizing and installation requirements. If you'd rather leave a storm door project to a professional, Lowe's Door Installation Services can help with storm door installation.
How to Choose a Storm Door
Once you've decided on a storm door, compare the view style, screen configuration, frame construction and features.
Storm Door Styles
A full-view storm door has glass covering most of the door, providing expansive outdoor views and plenty of natural light. Depending on the model, the glass may be interchangeable with a screen or paired with a retractable screen. A mid-view storm door combines a large viewing area with a solid lower panel. The lower panel can make this style a practical choice for frequently used entrances. A high-view storm door has glass in the upper portion and a larger solid panel below, providing ventilation and visibility with additional protection at the bottom of the door.
Screen Options
If you want both weather protection and ventilation, compare storm door screen configurations. Interchangeable screens can replace glass panels when you want more airflow. Self-storing screens remain within the door system, while retractable screens roll into a housing when they're not needed. A storm door with a retractable screen can be a convenient choice if you frequently switch between an open view and ventilation.
Frame and Construction
Most storm doors have aluminum frames or solid wood-core construction with a protective exterior surface. Compare construction, weatherstripping, finishes and manufacturer warranties when choosing a door.
Storm Door Closers and Hardware
A storm door closer controls how quickly and firmly the door closes and helps prevent it from opening or closing too quickly. Some models include more than one closer for additional control. Check whether handles and other hardware are included before purchasing. Some storm doors require a compatible handle set that's sold separately.
How to Choose a Screen Door
Screen doors are available in several configurations, making it easy to find an option for an entry door or patio door.
- Hinged screen doors operate much like traditional doors and are commonly installed outside front, side and back entry doors.
- Sliding screen doors are commonly paired with sliding patio doors. They move horizontally along a track rather than swinging outward, making them a space-saving option.
- Retractable screen doors extend across an opening when you need ventilation and retract into a housing when they're not in use. This provides a relatively unobstructed view when the screen is stored.
Screen Door Materials
Screen-door frames are commonly available in materials such as aluminum, vinyl and wood. Aluminum screen doors offer durable, low-maintenance construction, while vinyl and wood options provide different combinations of appearance, weight and maintenance requirements.
Screen mesh may be made from fiberglass, aluminum or other materials. Consider visibility, airflow, durability and pet resistance when choosing screen material.
Standard Storm Doors vs. Security Storm Doors
It's also important to understand the difference between a standard storm door and a security door. A standard storm door is primarily designed to provide additional weather protection, ventilation and natural light. While it may include a locking handle or latch, it isn't necessarily designed to provide enhanced security.
If security is a priority, consider a security storm door or security screen door designed specifically for that purpose. These doors may include features such as reinforced frames, heavy-duty screens or grilles and more robust locking systems. A storm door or screen door shouldn't be considered a replacement for a properly installed and secured exterior entry door.