A storm door is a second door installed in front of your main entry door. It protects the entry door from wind, rain and snow, reduces drafts, and can let in fresh air and light on warm days.
This guide explains the main styles, the features that matter most, and the signs that an old storm door should be replaced.
1. Why Install a Storm Door?
- Protects the finish and weatherstripping of your front door.
- Adds a second barrier against drafts and wind-driven rain.
- Allows ventilation through a glass or screen insert.
- Lets natural light into the entrance.
- Adds a layer of security with an optional key lock.
2. Common Storm Door Styles
Full-View
A large single glass panel that shows off your front door and lets in the most light. Many full-view doors allow the glass to be switched for a screen insert in summer.
Hi-View
A tall glass section with a solid lower kick panel. A practical choice for busy entrances, homes with pets, or where the bottom of the door takes more wear.
Tri-Lite and One-Lite
Divided or single-pane designs that give the door a more traditional look while keeping good visibility.
Self-Storing
Glass and screen panels slide within the door, so you can switch between ventilation and protection without removing an insert.
Double Storm Doors
For wide or double entry doors, a pair of storm doors can be custom-made to fit the full opening.
3. What to Look for in a Quality Storm Door
- A sturdy frame, such as 1½” or 2″ aluminum.
- Tempered safety glass.
- Double weatherstripping and reinforced corners.
- A heavy-duty closer that controls the door in the wind.
- Non-corrosive hinges and quality handles and locks.
- A size made to fit your opening rather than an off-the-shelf door.
4. Signs Your Storm Door Should Be Replaced
- Gaps, drafts or rattling around the frame.
- The door slams, will not latch, or stays open.
- Bent, dented or corroded frames.
- Cracked glass or torn screens on an older door.
- Faded colour that makes the entrance look dated.
Some problems, such as a worn closer, loose handle or damaged screen, can be repaired. When the frame itself is bent or the door no longer fits the opening, replacement is usually the better value.
5. Colours and Hardware
Storm doors are commonly available in colours such as white, black, sandalwood, ivory, grey and brown, so the door can match your trim, entry door or windows. Handle and lock options can often be colour-matched as well.
Custom Storm Doors in Toronto & the GTA
AEO Services Inc. supplies and installs custom aluminum storm doors made at a local Toronto factory, and repairs existing storm and screen doors across Toronto, the GTA, York Region, Durham Region and Simcoe County.
Explore our Custom Storm Doors service or submit a service request online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which storm door style lets in the most light?
A full-view storm door has the largest glass area and lets in the most light.
Can a storm door be made for a non-standard opening?
Yes. Custom storm doors are built to the measured size of the opening, including double doors.
Is it worth repairing an old storm door?
Minor issues such as a closer, handle or screen are often worth repairing. A bent or poorly fitting frame is usually better replaced.