Storm Doors vs. Screen Doors: Which Does Your Home Need?

Choosing between a storm door and a screen door depends on your priorities: energy efficiency, ventilation, or both. This guide helps Massachusetts homeowners make the right choice for their homes.

What's the Difference?

Storm Doors

Storm doors are designed primarily for protection and energy efficiency:

• Full glass panel or glass/screen combination
• Provide insulation against cold and heat
• Protect main entry door from weather
• Typically have interchangeable glass and screen panels

Screen Doors

Screen doors focus on ventilation and insect protection:

• Mesh screen allows airflow
• Keeps insects and debris out
• Lighter construction than storm doors
• Less protection from weather

Best Choice for Massachusetts Homes

Given Massachusetts' cold winters and variable weather, storm doors offer the best year-round value. However, the best modern storm doors combine both functions.

Full-View Storm Doors

• Pros: Maximum light, showcases entry door
• Cons: Less ventilation
• Best for: Homes with attractive entry doors

Retractable Screen Storm Doors

• Pros: Best of both worlds - protection and ventilation
• Cons: Higher cost
• Best for: Most Massachusetts homes

Traditional Storm Doors

• Pros: Maximum insulation, affordable
• Cons: Requires manual panel changes
• Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners

Energy Savings

A quality storm door can reduce energy loss through your entry door by up to 50%. In Massachusetts, this can translate to $100-200 in annual heating savings.

Cost Comparison

• Basic screen door: $100-$300 installed
• Standard storm door: $300-$600 installed
• Premium retractable screen storm door: $600-$1,200 installed

Our Recommendation

For Massachusetts homes, we recommend a mid-range storm door with retractable screen functionality. This gives you energy protection in winter and ventilation in summer. Contact Maia Construction for a free consultation.