The Learning Center From an energy savings perspective, storm doors are not really necessary if you have a well-insulated prime entry door. However, even if you have a good performing entry door, you may still want to have a storm door for a little additional security or ventilation during certain times of the year.  In older homes, storm doors do add insulation value, reduce air infiltration, and protect your prime door from the weather. Most storm doors come with screens to allow for summertime ventilation. 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. Some doors have a self-storing window that easily slides down inside the door and 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. 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. If you are looking for a storm door for added security when you open your main entry door, be sure to get a higher quality door with stronger, mortised hardware that has a deadbolt along with a strike plate mounted on the frame.     1. What do I need to know before buying a storm door? < back to list of questions about storm doors 1-877-SWING CLEAN info@energyswingwindows.com 3245 Miracle Drive Murrysville, PA 15668 724-387-2991 PA Contractor ID PA001856