Looking to upgrade your entryway with a secondary door? Whether you want more protection from the weather, better airflow, or just a way to boost your home’s curb appeal, choosing the right door to go in front of your main entry door can make a big difference. But with so many options out there, it can be tricky to figure out which one is best for your home. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Let’s walk through the different types of secondary doors and help you find the perfect match for your needs.
What Is a Secondary Door?
A secondary door is an additional exterior door installed in front of your main entry door. Secondary doors do not soley protect your home from the elements. Instead, they are meant to limit the damage to your entry door. You might have heard terms like “storm door”, “security door” or “screen door” used to describe these units. Essentially, they’re the same product, but with a few key differences based on how you plan to use them. Whether you’re looking for added protection against the elements for your entry door, more ventilation, or extra security, there’s a secondary door that fits your needs.
Types of Secondary Doors
- Storm Doors with Glass Inserts: These are perfect if you’re looking for extra weather protection for your front entry door. Storm doors come with glass panels that keep rain, snow, and wind from damaging your beautiful entry door. Some homeowners like to leave thier glass storm door closed and keep thier entry door open to enjoy sunlight. You can also swap out the glass for a screen in warmer months, which gives you a nice breeze without the bugs. If you live in an area with tough weather, this is a solid choice to protect your main door and keep your home comfortable.
- Combination Storm and Screen Doors: Think of these as the best of both worlds. They come with built-in screens, and many models have glass panels that slide up and down, like a window. This lets you adjust the airflow easily while still protecting your entry door from the elements. If you want both protection and ventilation, this option gives you flexibility all year long.
- Retractable Screen Doors: These are great if you want a screen door without it being constantly visible. The screen rolls up into the door frame when not in use, so your entry door remains the focal point. Retractable screen doors are ideal for warmer climates where you want maximum airflow but don’t need heavy-duty weather protection. Just keep in mind that they won’t offer the same level of protection as traditional storm doors.
- Security Doors: If security is your main concern, these doors are built tough. They often come with reinforced frames and strong locks, giving you peace of mind while still offering weather protection for your entry door. Made from materials like steel or heavy-duty aluminum, these doors can help protect against break-ins while looking great on your home.
How to Choose the Best Secondary Door
- Weather Protection
If you live in an area with harsh winters or heavy rain, you’ll want a door that offers solid protection. A storm door with glass inserts will help shield your entry door from the elements, reducing wear and tear over time.
- Ventilation
Love letting in a fresh breeze? A door with built-in screens or one that allows you to swap between glass and screen panels is perfect. You’ll get the airflow you want without having to open the main door and invite bugs inside.
- Curb Appeal
Your secondary door doesn’t just need to be functional—it can look great too. Storm doors come in different of designs like full-view glass to sleek, modern frames. Retractable screen doors offer a clean, minimalist look that keeps the focus on your entry door when the screen isn’t in use.
- Security
If added security is a must, look for doors with reinforced frames and locking systems. Security doors provide the best of both worlds: they protect your entry door from both weather and potential break-ins.
- Climate
Where you live plays a big role in which door is right for you. If your area gets a lot of cold weather, a storm door with a solid glass insert will help keep your home insulated. If you’re in a milder climate, a door with more screen options can provide great ventilation without sacrificing protection.
Finding the Right Storm Door for Your Home
When it comes to picking a secondary door, it’s all about finding what fits your specific needs. If protecting your home from the elements is a priority, a full glass storm door will give you the best defense. If you’re more focused on airflow and flexibility, a combination storm and screen door lets you enjoy a breeze whenever you want. And for those who prioritize security, there are reinforced stell security doors designed to add an extra layer of protection for your peace of mind.
We’re Here to Help!
With Unified Home Remodeling, we’ll work with you to find the best fit for your entryway—whether you’re after extra protection, better airflow, or a fresh look for your home. Get in touch with us today, and let’s talk about how we can upgrade your entryway with a door that meets all your needs.