One of the things that many people have asked is the possibility of installing a storm door over their existing fiberglass door. Many homeowners have chosen to use fiberglass doors because of their quality and flexibility, but are also looking for added protection that a storm door can provide. We’ve looked into this question and we’ve found great tips and answers that can help you.
You can definitely put a storm door over your current fiberglass door. While fiberglass doors are already sturdy enough as it is, a storm door can provide your front door extra protection from the elements, as well as added security for your home.
Keep reading and let us show you how storm doors can benefit homes with fiberglass doors. We will also discuss if storm doors can be installed on any door and if they can be replaced without changing the frame. We will add valuable information about the costs of storm doors and their installation.
Benefits of Storm Doors
Over the years, fiberglass doors have risen in popularity for many homeowners because of their high quality and resistance to weather elements. Despite all these, some homeowners would like to have the option of installing a storm door because of its protective advantages or for adding flair to their front doors.
For those who already have fiberglass doors, you may already see the advantages it can offer. However, combining a storm door and a fiberglass entry door can offer added value like protection from the elements, energy efficiency, and a better appearance for your front doors.
Protection from Elements
Depending on where you live, the climate can go from blazing hot summers to freezing cold winters. While fiberglass doors are weatherproof and can withstand these elements, having a storm door can lessen the wear and tear that your normally exposed front door will experience, making it look new and fresh for years to come.
Energy Efficiency
Storm doors provide tight seals around your entryway when closed. This gives your home an added layer of insulation during harsh winters because it can help keep the thermostat lower.
During nicer weather, you can reduce energy use by keeping your fiberglass doors open and your storm doors closed because it’s a great way to let the light in.
Enhanced Appearance
There are many models of storm doors available on the market and some of them provide an extra flair to your home’s design. If your current front door is looking a little bit too plain and you’d like to amp up the look a little bit, a storm door can do this for you.
It will make your entryway look more attractive and new, with the added protection a storm door can provide. Storm doors can be a valuable addition to your home. You can have them installed by a contractor, or do it by yourself.
How to Install a Storm Door Over a Fiberglass Door
Before doing this project, make sure that you have ample space between your door openings to ensure a smooth installation. Here you can find the steps on how to install a storm door over a fiberglass door.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Storm door unit
- Caulk
- Hacksaw
- Square
- Tape measure
- Level
- Pliers
- Drill
- Set of drill bits
- Scissors
- Pencil
- Hammer
Instructions
- Measure the height and width of your door opening. Double check to ensure your measurements as this may not be reversible as you proceed with your task.
- Install your hinge plate to the storm door.
- Place the storm door in the door opening and install.
- Install the drip cap and the jamb on the other side. Check if the door opens and closes correctly.
- Attach the door closers, handle, and strike plate.
- Test the storm door. Ensure that all parts are working correctly and if it is sealing your entryway well.
There is a caveat to having storm doors installed with your fiberglass doors. While there are many advantages to it, there are also factors that you should consider. Do you think it is absolutely necessary for you to have one for your home? We will be answering these through the following questions.
Can a storm door be installed on any door?
Technically, a storm door can be installed on any door that you may have. However, some homes might not need a storm door. There are many different factors that can affect your need to have one installed.
Homes located in places with ideal climates do not need a storm door as a good, quality front door is already enough. There are also homes wherein there is not enough space for a storm door to be installed.
If your front door is already sitting right on the very edge of the door jamb, it will make installation practically impossible.
Can you replace a storm door without replacing the frame?
Since door frames are less prone to the daily stresses doors are subjected to, they are a lot sturdier and last longer than the door itself. If your storm door is due to be changed, you can have it replaced without having to change the current frame.
If you find yourself needing to replace your storm door, there are a few things you have to check:
- Make sure that your door frame is in excellent shape. It should not be warped or too worn out as your new door might not fit properly.
- Inspect if your current door is closing properly. Check for gaps around your storm door that you need to have insulated.
- Remember to correctly measure your existing door before getting a replacement. This will ensure that your new storm door will fit with your existing frame without any issues.
How much does a storm door cost?
On average, storm doors can set you off from anywhere between $150 to over $1,000, depending on the kind of material you’ll be picking for your door. The more basic aluminum types usually start off at around $100 to $200 apiece. For storm doors that provide added features, the cost starts at around $500 and can go higher.
Aside from the cost of your door, another thing that you have to consider is how you’ll be having it installed. For experienced DIY-ers, you can probably spend about $200 to $300 just for the door parts and materials alone. It’s a great way to save up on costs if you already have experience in installing storm doors.
However, for those who want to have it installed professionally, the average cost is about $450 for the installation. Contractor rates may differ for everyone, so check the labor costs that your project will entail.
This choice, however, will definitely give you the assurance of quality and proper installation and it will give you peace of mind that your door was properly installed.
Takeaways
You can install a storm door over a fiberglass door with no problem, provided that you have considered the pros and cons of having one installed. It may be different for everybody, but for those who will choose to have one installed, a storm door will truly be beneficial for your home.
