A typical aluminum storm door is designed to protect an entry door from weather damage and unwanted intruders. Today’s units are energy efficient and add some curb appeal with style and function. Some storm doors are designed with clear glass so the entrance door is clearly or partially visible through oval or decorative panels. Ventilation that allows security glass panels to open full or halfway is another important feature. Even the most practical straight panel styles are better looking and feature retractable screens and glass panels so transitioning from one season to another is easy.
You’ll find a large selection of standard storm doors measuring 32 or 36 inches wide by 81 inches high made of aluminum with a baked-on enamel finish at home centers and lumberyards. A 32-inch door fits door openings that measure 31 7/8 inches by 32 3/8 inches wide. A 36-inch door will work in a door opening that’s 35 7/8-inches by 36 3/8-inches wide. Many feature weatherstripping and a door closer, so they’re complete units ready to install.
A contractor will charge $828, which includes labor and material, to remove an old door and install a good quality aluminum storm door. If you have carpentry skills and tools, you can buy the door for $250, install it yourself and save 70 percent. The cost goes up if the door frame requires repair work or painting. And if your door jamb is less than perfect or the frame is out of square, you’ll need carpentry skills and experience to custom-fit the unit properly.
To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.
Pro Cost—DIY Cost—Pro time—DIY Time—DIY Savings—Percent Saved
$828—$250—3.9—6.0—$578—70 percent
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