Storm doors are a great addition to the home as they help to protect the home from pests and harsh weather, while still providing ventilation. But one of the things that get people confused is usually, should storm door match open out? 

Yes, storm door match should open out. They’re made specifically for exterior doors, so it would definitely be impossible for them to open inwards. In addition, the local building codes, and climate conditions can affect the way it opens. If the climate condition is bad or the local building codes says otherwise, you have to follow suit. 

This article is well detailed to tell you everything you need to know about storm door and how it should be on the exterior door. 

Should Storm Door Match Open Out?

Does It Matter Which Way A Storm Door Match Opens?

Yes, the direction in which a storm door opens can matter depending on various factors, such as the layout of your home, the prevailing wind direction in your area, and your personal preferences. For instance, storm doors are expected to ipen to the side where there is no obstruction of any sort. 

Here are a few considerations to keep in mind:

• One important consideration is the layout and design of the entryway. In some cases, the architecture or layout of a house may dictate the direction in which the storm door should open. For example, if the entryway has limited space or is located in a tight corner, an outward-opening storm door may be a better choice to avoid obstruction. On the other hand, if the entryway is spacious, an inward-opening storm door might be more suitable as it provides easier access and allows for more design options.
• Climate and weather patterns also play a role in determining the direction of a storm door’s opening. Areas prone to strong winds, such as coastal regions, may benefit from an outward-opening storm door. This configuration helps prevent the door from getting caught by gusts and potentially causing damage. An inward-opening storm door can provide better insulation and protection against cold drafts in regions with harsh winters.
• Security is another aspect to consider when deciding which way a storm door should open. Outward-opening storm doors generally offer better visibility of the outside, allowing homeowners to easily see who is at the door before opening it. This can enhance security by providing an added layer of scrutiny. However, those concerned with potential break-ins might prefer an inward-opening storm door, which can be reinforced with additional security features and is harder to force open.
• Lastly, personal preference and convenience should not be overlooked. Some individuals may find it more comfortable to have a storm door that opens inward, as it requires less effort to operate and allows for easier entry and exit. Others may prefer the aesthetic appeal of an outward-opening storm door, as it can create a more welcoming appearance from the outside.

Should Your Storm Door Handle Match Your Front Door?

No specific rule says the storm door should match your front door. But, when installing a storm door, the handle should match the front door’s. For instance, if your front door handle is on the right, the storm door handle should also be on the right. 

Despite the handle of the front and storm door matching, you also need to take note of the direction of the swing because it can affect the convenience of you passing to and fro your door freely. This means you must check the best swing direction before deciding how to place the storm door. 

When the handles share similar styles, finishes, or materials, it offers a kind of visual connection and provides a harmonious look. This approach works particularly well when the front and storm doors are close to each other. It creates a seamless transition from the exterior of the house to the entrance, giving a unified and polished appearance.

On the other hand, some homeowners may prefer to differentiate the storm door handle from the front door handle. They might opt for a contrasting design to make the storm door stand out as a separate entry point. This approach isn’t too bad either, as everything depends on personal preference.  But, just be sure that it offers you the protection you need. 

Can You Put A Storm Door On An Outswing Door?

Yes, you can put a storm door on an outswing door because storm doors are designed to be installed on either inswing or outswing doors. They help protect your home from rain, pest and as well reduce the cost of door maintenance. 

However, there are a few factors you should consider when installing a storm door on an outswing door.

1. Sufficient space: Ensure that there is enough space between the outswing door and the surrounding frame to accommodate the storm door. To do ths, measure the width of the space to know if the storm door will fit properly.
2. Hinge configuration: Determine if the outswing door has hinges on the same side as the storm door. If the hinges are on the same side, you may need to install an offset or reverse-hinge storm door specifically designed for outswing doors.
3. Proper installation: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing the storm door. This typically involves attaching the door frame to the exterior frame of the outswing door, ensuring it is securely fastened.
4. Weatherstripping and sealing: Ensure that the storm door provides a proper seal against drafts and weather. This may involve installing weatherstripping along the edges and bottom of the door to create a tight seal when closed.

Can You Hang A Storm Door Opposite Direction?

Yes, you can hang a storm door opposite direction. However, it will require some modifications and adjustments to make it fit properly on the front door.

 

Here are a few things to consider to hang storm door opposite direction:

1. Hinge Placement: Storm doors typically have hinges on one side to allow them to swing open and closed. If you want to hang the door in the opposite direction, you will need to reposition the hinges on the opposite side of the door frame.
2. Handle and Latch: The handle and latch mechanisms on the storm door may also need to be moved to the opposite side. This will require re-drilling holes and possibly making adjustments to the latch plate and strike plate on the door jamb.
3. Door Frame: The door frame itself may need to be modified to accommodate the new hinge and handle locations. This could involve filling existing hinge and handle holes, drilling new ones, and ensuring the frame is properly aligned for the new door swing direction.
4. Weather stripping and Sweeps: If the storm door has weather stripping or sweeps on the bottom and sides, you will need to ensure they are positioned correctly for the new door swing direction. This may involve removing and reinstalling or replacing these components.

Can You Put A Storm Door On Any Front Door?

Generally, storm doors can be installed on most front doors. However, there are certain factors to consider before installing a storm door, such as the size, construction, and condition of the existing front door. This will help you avoid problems when opening and closing the storm door. 

Here are a few considerations:

1. Size and Configuration: Storm doors come in various sizes and configurations. This means that before you put it on a front door, you need to ensure that the storm door you choose fits properly on your front door frame. To be sure, measure the width, height, and depth of your existing door frame before selecting a storm door.
2. Door Material and Construction: Storm doors are designed to be installed on solid wood, metal, or fiberglass front doors, and of course, your storm door should be any of this material. Some front doors, such as hollow-core doors, may not be suitable for a storm door.
3. Door Condition: Inspect the condition of your front door. Ensure that it is in good structural shape and free from any damage or rot. A storm door installation adds additional weight and stress to the front door, so it’s important to have a solid foundation.
4. Climate Considerations: Consider the climate in your area. Storm doors are primarily installed to provide extra insulation, protection, and energy efficiency. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, such as hurricanes or high winds, you may need to select a storm door specifically designed for such conditions.
5. Accessibility and Safety: Storm doors provide additional security and accessibility features, such as built-in screens, locks, or self-closing mechanisms. Always consider your specific needs and select a storm door that meets those requirements.

Final Thoughts 

Before buying or planning to install a storm door, it’s advisable to consult with a professional installer or follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure that it is a good fit or your front door. Storm doors are a great option when it comes to protecting the door and keeping free from pest, but if you want to enjoy using it, you need to follow the due process.