If you’re replacing your front door, you’re probably wondering: “Do I really need a storm door, too?”
It seems like a simple add-on, but the wrong choice can lead to heat damage, style clashes, and wasted money. And in a climate like Pittsburgh’s, where weather shifts fast and curb appeal still matters, the answer isn’t always obvious.
At Energy Swing, we’ve helped hundreds of Pittsburgh homeowners make smart, lasting entryway upgrades. We know when a storm door makes sense… and when it just gets in the way. We’ve seen the good, the bad, and the “why did we add that?” Whether you buy a storm door from us or someone else, we want you to know when it’s truly worth it and when it’s not.
This article will walk you through everything you need to decide confidently: the pros, the cons, local weather factors, design concerns, and whether you’ll actually benefit from a storm door on your home.
Key Takeaways
- Storm doors aren't energy efficient but can protect your entry door from the elements.
- Ventilation, security, and pet visibility are the top reasons homeowners add one.
- Heat buildup and style concerns are common reasons to skip it.
- In Pittsburgh, storm doors make the most sense for exposed entryways.
- It’s more cost-effective to install a storm door during entry door replacement than after.
What Is a Storm Door and Why Do People Add One?
A storm door is a secondary exterior door that installs in front of your main entry door. Typically made of aluminum or steel with glass and/or screen panels, it acts as a barrier against weather and can offer additional functionality.
Pittsburgh homeowners often add storm doors for:
- Security – A clear glass barrier (that can be locked) between you and whoever’s at the front door
- Ventilation – Allows fresh air in while keeping bugs out and pets inside
- Natural light – Let sunlight in while keeping the main door open
- Pet visibility – Dogs and cats love storm doors for their front-row window views
But are those reasons enough for you? Let’s dig deeper.
How Do Storm Doors Affect Energy Efficiency in Pittsburgh?
This is a common myth: storm doors do not add insulation value and aren't ENERGY STAR® rated. They won't lower your heating bill during a Pittsburgh winter.
However, they can act as a weather buffer in wind tunnels or homes with no porch coverage, shielding your main door from the outside elements like wind-driven rain and snow exposure.
U.S. Department of Energy estimates that about 30% of a home’s heating/cooling energy use can be due to doors, windows, and skylights—adding a storm door helps address a sizable portion of that loss.
If your home has an overhang or enclosed porch, like most Squirrel Hill-style homes, the energy and weather protection benefits are minimal.
Storm doors are common for Lawrenceville row homes because they have little to no overhang that adds any protection.
Beyond energy, what about keeping your home safe?
Do Storm Doors Improve Home Security?
Yes, with the right glass and lock setup.
- Glass models with deadbolts can deter quick break-ins.
- Choose full-glass ProVia storm doors with quality lock systems for maximum protection.
- Skip screens if security is a concern; they're easy to push through.
Sometimes, the peace of mind that comes with having an extra barrier between you and the outside when answering your door is an attractive benefit for homeowners.
Do Storm Doors Protect Entry Doors in Pittsburgh Weather?
Absolutely. A storm door shields your main door from:
- Rain and blowing snow
- Road salt and grime in winter, especially near busy streets
- Scratches and wear from daily use
But beware of overheating. If your door faces afternoon sun and is dark-colored, trapped heat between the storm and main door can damage the finish, degrade hardware, or cause warping. Consider a storm door with built-in vents or skip it altogether in those cases.
Do Storm Doors Improve Comfort?
It depends on what “comfort” means to you:
- Fresh air access with the main door open
- Natural light while still being secure
- Watching the neighborhood go by (kids and pets love this)
Storm doors give you control over airflow, light, and visibility, especially in spring and fall. If you use your front door often, it’s a functional bonus.
Will a Storm Door Clash with My Home's Style?
Yes, and that’s why some homeowners skip it.
In Pittsburgh neighborhoods like Cranberry or Highland Park, front doors are often showpieces, as most homeowners enter through their garage.
A storm door might:
- Detract from your custom or high-end entry door
- Add visual bulk to a clean front elevation
If curb appeal matters more than function in your case, it may not be worth it.
4 Common Drawbacks of Storm Doors for Pittsburgh Homes
Storm doors aren’t for everyone. Here are the downsides:
- Heat buildup: In direct sunlight, trapped heat can damage your door
- Double entry hassle: You now have two doors to open every time
- Potential warranty risk: Improper installation can affect your primary door’s frame warranty
- Higher cost later: Retrofitting a storm door later is often 2–3x more expensive than doing it during your initial install
Installing a storm door on a highly trafficked back door, for instance, can become more hassle than help, especially for families with kids running in and out.
How Much Does a Storm Door Cost in Pittsburgh?
The cost of a storm door depends on the material, size, and installation timing.
Here’s a ballpark based on what we typically see in the Pittsburgh area for homeowners who choose to get a storm door installed when getting an entry door:
| Door Type | Price with Installation |
|---|---|
| Basic Storm Door | $800–$1,200 |
| Full-Glass or Vented Model | $1,500–$2,000 |
| Custom Sizing | $1,800–$2,200 |
Pro tip: If you install a storm door at the same time as your entry door, you’ll likely save 20–40% compared to retrofitting later.
See our full guide: How Much Does it Cost to Install an Entry Door in Pittsburgh?
Are Storm Doors a Smart Addition for Pittsburgh Homes?
Sometimes, especially with our wild four-season climate. Consider adding a storm door if:
- Your entry has no coverage and faces wind/rain
- You want airflow, but worry about bugs getting in or pets getting out
- You use your front door often (not just the garage)
Pittsburgh-specific tip: Watch for condensation or ice buildup in winter. Humid indoor air + cold glass = fog or frost inside your storm door. Your chances of experiencing condensation or frost can be reduced if you choose a storm door with ventilation.
How Do I Know If a Storm Door Is Right for Me?
Ask yourself:
- Is your entryway shaded or sun-exposed?
- Do you want airflow, light, or pet visibility?
- Is your main door color dark?
- Do you value security layering?
Still unsure? Talk to a door company that can walk you through the best fit for your framing, exposure, and usage habits.
What Pittsburgh Door Experts Recommend
- Define your “why” first: Don’t add a storm door just to add one. Know what you want it to do.
- Choose light-colored entry doors if you’re pairing with a storm door in direct sunlight
- Only install on strong, reinforced frames (especially with sidelights); otherwise, it may move in the opening and become difficult to operate.
- If style matters most, skip it and let your entry door shine
Pro Tip: Add a storm door at the same time as your entry door install. It’s more affordable and ensures proper prep.
Quick Comparison: When to Get a Storm Door in Pittsburgh
| Storm Door Makes Sense If... | Skip It If... |
|---|---|
| Entry is fully exposed to the weather | Covered porch or enclosed stoop |
| You want fresh air and bug protection | You rarely use the front door |
| Kids or pets like looking outside | The main door is dark-colored and faces the afternoon sun |
| Concerned about door damage from elements | Curb appeal is your top priority |
Final Takeaway: Should You Get a Storm Door or Not?
At the end of the day, there’s no universal answer to whether a storm door is right for your home, only the one that fits your lifestyle, entryway, and priorities. You now know how storm doors function in Pittsburgh weather, the pros and cons they bring, and the key factors (like sunlight exposure, pet needs, and door color) that should guide your choice.
Remember: Many homeowners face this same uncertainty when planning their door upgrade. You're not alone in asking, “Is it really worth it?” The truth is, a storm door can be a smart investment or an unnecessary add-on, depending on your unique situation.
If you’re still unsure, your next step is simple. Schedule a free consultation with Energy Swing. We’ll look at your home’s exposure, discuss your goals, and give you an honest, pressure-free recommendation.
We’ve helped thousands of homeowners in Pittsburgh make the right call for their entryway and we’re ready to help you do the same.
