Factors To Consider For Your Storm Door Replacement

If you are looking to safeguard your home against the wind, rain, or whatever else the South Florida elements can throw at you, then you need to consider storm doors for your property.

Storm doors are designed to protect the entry points, or doors, of your home from harsh weather conditions. Not only that, but they also provide added insulation and even security.

Where do you start though, and what storm door is best suited for your home? There are many things to consider if you are looking to install this added layer of protection to your property, starting with the materials it is made from and its durability.

Materials And Durability

First up, think carefully about the material that the storm door is made up of, and what is best suited to the environmental conditions around your home. These doors are most often made of aluminum, steel, wood, or even a combination of these materials. Each offers something different in terms of advantages and protection. When it comes to South Florida storm doors, however, the preferred option is unquestionably aluminum High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) doors.

For example, aluminum doors are lightweight and resistant to corrosion, and when combined with HVHZ properties are an excellent option to protect your home during the hurricane season. and for this reason, many homeowners in coastal areas choose this type of material.

Steel storm doors, on the other hand, are robust, which means they can take on all sorts of weather conditions. Added to that, they provide a great layer of security from the outside. Many people who prioritize safety and security for their families choose this type of material. The issue however is that they don’t often suit the style of homes in and around South Florida.

When it comes to wood storm doors, people often choose these because of the aesthetic appeal, where they offer a more classic look. The issue however is that if you do opt for a wooden material it’s important to note that they require a bit more maintenance than the other two materials as they can be susceptible to rot and warping. So, if you are in an area that gets a lot of rain during the year, you may want to consider one of the other two options. the aluminum option.

So, which one is suited for your home? It’s important to consider the climate where you live. Avoid a wooden storm door if you live in heavy rainfall areas and steel if you live near the sea. That’s why aluminum is the option that most homeowners in South Florida go for. is a great option for both, but it’s not quite as sturdy as steel doors. If you are unsure about the door you are looking to choose, we recommend you consult with a storm door specialist like STS Impact Windows & Doors to help you choose the right material for your home.

Design And Esthetics

Now that we’ve covered the first important point, you need to consider what sort of design and esthetics you would like for your home.

While a storm door is a functional addition to your home, it’s also important that they look good and suit the rest of your property. They come in a variety of styles, ranging from full-view doors to those offering ventilation and even retractable screens. Think carefully about the architectural design of your home when choosing such a door. You’ll want something that complements the rest of your home.

​​​​​​Full-view storm doors feature big glass panels that allow for excellent visibility out of your home and bring a lot of sunlight in. It’s a great option if you are looking to showcase your entry door, but may not be the safest option against the Florida storms. Ventilation storm doors on the other hand are made with adjustable screens which allow for air flow into your home. If you live in an area with a warm climate, this may be best suited for you. If you choose a retractable screen door, you’ll be able to hide the screen when it’s not in use.

Then, consider the color and the finish of the door you choose. It should match the rest of your home. If you have a home with a neutral tone, don’t choose a storm door in a bright color, unless you are looking to make a statement.

If you choose the right storm door, it will not only serve as a functional element to your property but it can also significantly improve its curb appeal.

Energy Efficiency

While a storm door is there to protect your home against severe weather, it also serves another important purpose – energy efficiency.

These doors act as a barrier against the outside elements, such as drafts and fluctuations in temperature. When choosing a storm door, pay close attention to the energy efficiency features.

It’s always best to choose a door that offers good insulation. This is important for both the heat and the cold. A well-insulated door will keep the heat out in summer and the cold out in the cooler months. You may even find a door with Low-E glass, which essentially reflects heat while still allowing light to pass through. This contributes to energy savings in the long run.

Other things to consider include the U-factor (how well the door insulates) and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (also known as SHGC – the door’s ability to block heat from the sun) ratings.

Installation And Maintenance

After you’ve chosen the perfect storm door for your home, you need to consider the installation. Choose a reputable impact door installation specialist in Palm Beach County to ensure that the door does its job and does not compromise your home. Some homeowners choose to install these doors themselves, but we advise that you bring the professionals in. They’ll ensure it has a seamless fit and is installed with the right materials. You don’t want to invest in the perfect door for your home but then fall short with the installation.

When it comes to maintenance, this goes back to choosing the right door for your climate. It’s important that the door is made with quality materials and finishes. If you go for a ‘cheap’ option, you may find that you are spending a lot of time (and money) on maintaining the door. We advise choosing materials that are resistant to rust, corrosion, and fading. To maintain the door, make sure you clean it regularly and lubricate all moving parts. This includes hinges and latches. With the right material, finish, and maintenance, you’ll have a door that will last the ages.

Security Features

It’s important that you choose a door that has robust locking mechanisms and hinges. This will improve the security of your home. Also, you should consider a door with multi-point locking systems. These systems secure the door at multiple points along the frame.

If you choose a door with glass. it will have laminated glass, which will hold together if it is shattered. This will prevent easy access for whoever is trying to get into your home.

Consider Your Budget

Last on our list of considerations is your budget. While we’d all love to have the strongest, most durable, and weather-resistant door, it still has to align with whatever budget you have available.

You’ll find a variety of options at various price points, so consider what your requirements are and be realistic with your budget. Always strike a balance between cost and quality. Avoid simply going for the cheapest option, as it may cost you more in the long run.

Quality Storm Door Installations With STS Impact Windows & Doors

Choosing the right storm door for your home is only the first step. It’s equally important to ensure that you bring in the installation specialists. At STS Impact Windows & Doors, we have helped hundreds of homeowners choose and install storm doors that last the ages. Our aluminum HVHZ doors are extremely popular across South Florida for the various reasons we mentioned above. So if this is the door you are looking for, then you’ve come to the right place.

As South Florida’s leading provider and installer of impact-resistant windows & doors, our team of specialists will work with you to give your home the added layer of protection it needs.

If you’d like to speak to a storm door specialist, give us a call at 561-600-1018 or get a free storm door quote from our website.

Protect your home from the elements with STS Impact Windows & Doors.