If your home has a hand-carved wood door, ornate ironwork or original antique hardware, the right storm door for antique door protection lets you keep that entry in good condition without hiding it. A full glass storm door takes the weather so the old door does not have to, and the door behind it stays in plain view.
Few things are as eye-catching as a unique front door. Keeping it that way through Connecticut winters is the hard part, and that is where a well-chosen storm door earns its place.
How a Storm Door Protects an Older Entry Door
An antique door faces rain, snow, wind-blown debris and sun every day. Over time that leads to rot in wood, rust on iron details and wear on the finish. A storm door puts a heavy-duty aluminum and glass barrier in front of all of it, so the things that shorten the life of an expensive or irreplaceable door are kept away from it.
It also protects valuable hardware. Old knobs, knockers and hinges that are difficult to replace stay drier and cleaner behind a second door.
Choosing a Storm Door for Antique Door Styles
The goal is to protect the door without covering it. A full-view storm door, which is mostly glass with a slim frame, shows off the entire entry door behind it. Pick a frame color that matches or blends with the trim so the storm door fades into the background and the antique door remains the focus.
Fit matters too. Older door openings are often out of square or a non-standard size, so careful measuring and professional installation help the storm door close tightly and operate smoothly. Our post on reasons to choose a ProVia storm door covers one option in more detail.
More Benefits of Adding a Storm Door
Better Thermal Efficiency
Old doors are rarely airtight. A storm door adds a second layer and a pocket of air between the doors, which helps cut drafts and can reduce heating costs in the winter months. On a sunny day you can open the entry door and let natural light and warmth into the house while the glass keeps the cold out.
An Extra Layer of Security
A locking storm door is one more barrier at the entry. Getting through two doors takes more time and makes more noise than getting through one, which makes a break-in attempt less appealing.
Fresh Air Without the Wear
With a screen in place, you can leave the main door open in mild weather for ventilation. That is easier on an old door than propping it open with nothing in front of it.
When the Old Door Cannot Be Saved
Sometimes an antique door is too far gone, with rot, warping or drafts that no storm door will fix. In that case a new entry door in a traditional style, paired with a storm door from the start, gives you the look you want with far less upkeep.
Talk to Aladdin About Your Entry
Aladdin has been helping Connecticut homeowners with exterior updates since 1949. If you want a storm door that matches your home and protects the door you love, call (203) 776-9996 or send us a message and tell us about your entry.