What Are Storm Doors? Where to Use Them?

Storm doors are your extra layer of protection from the elements. If you live in an area that’s prone to strong winds and hard rains, storms, hurricanes, and tornados, then storm doors are your peace of mind. 

Now you can have one that is beautiful and adds value to your house or mobile home. One that adds to your curbside appeal while still providing the following benefits:

• Insulates from cold air and wind
• Protects your front door
• Pest prevention (with screen option)
• Cuts energy bills
• Varied options in style, function, and finish
• Encourages natural light in your home
• Added security 

We’ll go into these points in further detail in this blog. You will be able to decide if a storm door is right for your home. If you are still unsure, you can contact Sceenmobile technicians in your area for guidance and advice. 

What’s the purpose of a storm door?

A storm door is an effective layer of protection against the harsh elements in colder, storm-prone climates. It looks like a second door, but it fully covers your main entrance–gaps included. 

Strong winds forcefully enter between the gaps in your front door and

• Weakens your main door
• Agitates other doors within your home 
• Disturbs decoration, like vases and hanging pictures
• Increases energy bills

The wind is dangerous to the stability of your home, your finances, and your safety.

Here are some signs you may need a storm door: 

• Your front door feels weakened by winds and weather.
• Your front door shakes within the doorframe, especially in inclement weather.
• You can hear a low howl when the winds kick up.
• You can feel a constant draft.

Compounding these issues, all this time, before installing your storm door, you paid extra for your heating. The cold drafts prompted you to hike up the HVAC unit, or you were left shivering and uncomfortable in your own home. 

You don’t want to risk a broken main door that will invite intruders. 

You don’t want to hear a strong wind wailing through your house, threatening to knock over your precious belongings.

You don’t want to spend too much on heating bills.

What is the difference between a storm door and a screen door?

A screen door offers many of the same benefits as a storm door, but they’re not strong enough to protect against stronger winds. A screen door is beneficial to any family home–it allows you to keep your main entrance open to let a cool breeze pass through without risking bugs from entering or pets and kids from running out unobserved. Screen doors allow you to keep your main door open without your house sitting vulnerable.

Storm doors, however, are built to resist strong winds and inclement weather, be it rain or snow, help you save on heating bills, and still add a layer of security from intruders. 

Are storm doors a good idea?

Yes, if you live in an area prone to hurricanes, snow, or strong winds. You don’t need a storm door in a hotter climate; you would be better with a mesh screen door. Glass storm doors really shine on snowy days when you want some sunlight but don’t want a cold breeze to ruin your day. Sometimes, it isn’t necessary to go all out and choose the highest impact storm door. A screen door, equally as beautiful, will suffice. 

You can understand now why they are called storm doors. They are specifically designed to brave storms while protecting your home and simultaneously offering a view of the outside. 

Different types of storm doors

Storm doors are available in different materials, colors, and finishes. We live in a modern age where almost anything is customizable, storm doors included. At Screenmobile, we have a few brands on offer to advise you and professionally install for you. 

Custom storm doors are available in glass or grille options, full or mid-view, single or double pane, or mesh screens. You can choose one to match your home or discover a new one. In addition, we provide a professional installation of decorative storm doors on both houses and mobile homes. 

How to clean a mesh screen door

If you choose a mesh screen storm door, you need to maintain it to last longer. The following chart outlines the cleaning schedule necessary depending on where your home’s location:

Choose Screenmobile for your Storm Door

You don’t need to leave your home–we come directly to you in our Screenmobile. You can choose the color and style you want, and we can then make an appointment to have your new storm door installed. 

We are just a phone call away, or if you prefer, you can fill out a customer contact form here. From our customer service to our technicians, everyone is trained with deep product knowledge and pricing information to give you your answers directly.

You’re considering installing solar shades in your home, but you are stumped on which to choose: interior solar shades or exterior solar shades?

It’s a fair question that everyone asks. They both successfully provide shade from a hot, glaring, and harmful sun, but what are the finer details between the two options? And how will you know which one to choose for your home needs?

This blog outlines the pros and cons of each option, after which you’ll feel more confident in selecting your solar shade.

We’ll discuss practicality, materials, design, and budget, so keep reading!

If you’ve any questions or concerns or are ready to buy your solar shade, contact us at Screenmobile. A Screenmobile technician in your locality will help you choose what you want and need and professionally install your solar shades with customized options.

Shared benefits of solar shades

Solar screens and blinds are designed to protect your family and home from the sun. They both come in various patterns and colors to suit your home needs. Here are some of the benefits of exterior sun shades:

Blocking UV Rays

The sun is an excellent source of vitamin D. It makes us happy and is the background of many family outdoor memories. However, UV rays from the sun can be pretty harmful. If you stay too long in direct sunlight, you can seriously damage your skin and health. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends Screenmobile Sunbrella fabrics as adequate UV protection.

Energy Efficient

Being able to control the amount of light and heat entering your home from the sun allows you to manage your AC and electricity bills. With exterior sun shades, you can reduce your overall costs and the amount of energy your household consumes—the better option for homes aiming for a higher sustainability grade.

Blackout feature

Have trouble sleeping with light coming through the window? Or is a home cinema your next big project? Whatever your reasons for wanting to turn day into night, some Screenmobile brands offer this feature for interior or exterior sun shades. 

Retain view

Having a solar shade where you can keep your view is the perfect solution for those who want to admire the surrounding landscape while blocking the sun. You can choose materials that will stop the sun’s heat and light. Also, consider that you retain a spectacular view even with a darker screen. Give us a call and see for yourself.

Multiple Finishes

Your home is your sanctuary, and the decor you’ve chosen should not prevent you from benefiting from solar shades. Different exterior sun shade finishes are available in various colors to complement your interior design or curbside appeal.

Multiple Design Options

Stand out from your neighbors and choose your fabric. We have dozens to choose from, whether for blackout, pest-prevention, or a preference for designer fabrics. Our options include SheerWeave 2000 and 5000 choices.

We’ll be happy to share the full catalog with you. 

Ease of operation

Screenmobile’s motorized exterior sun shade options are operated by radio waves. They avoid interference from neighbors and other radio waves, offering security and safety when in use. Best of all, they are omnidirectional, meaning you can control your shades from a distance of up to 20 feet without needing to point directly at the source, like an IR remote. These options ensure smooth and motorized control that’s easy to use and set up.

Screenmobile Guarantee 

We provide an exceptional warranty as the products we choose are the best in the market. Be comforted knowing that your solar shades are good to last up to 10 years.

Interior Window Shades

Pros of Interior Window Shades

Interior window shades are an extra layer of design in your home. You can choose softer materials with a pattern that complements your interior decoration since they will not need to be as weather resistant and durable as exterior sun shades. They are easily controlled by a pulley system or motorized with retractable options.

You can also opt for interior solar window screens, which help block the sun and act as screens to discourage insects from flying in while airing out your home.

Cons of Interior Window Shades

You might not like the idea of having shades inside your home, especially if you have a particular decor in place. Even though there are many patterns available, interior shades might clash with your desired aesthetic. 

Neither are they as effective in keeping your house cool during hot days. The intention is to keep as much heat outside of your home, and yes, even a pane of glass can make a huge difference. Conduction is a principle of heat transfer that carries heat throughout your home once it touches a part of your home. An exterior shade will reduce that and keep your home cooler for longer.

Exterior Window Shades

Pros of Exterior Window Shades

Placed on the outside of your window, these shades are heavy-duty. They come complete with a magnetic and fabric retention locking system to prevent wind from disturbing your shade.

Cons of Exterior Window Shades

Exterior solar screens are better when motorized. Otherwise, you have to manually take them on and off, which is harder for some people. This isn’t ideal for people without a smartphone or who tend to misplace controllers. 

If you are still deliberating over which solar shades or screens to choose from, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our trained Screenmobile technicians can guide you in all the different options available and are available to help you make your selection. Installing solar screens is made easy with our professionals, who will come directly to your home. Take your research one step forward

Brands we have available:

Sun Control Retractable Shades: large, heavy-duty screens perfect for outdoor patios.

Phantom: motorized shades that disappear out of view when not in use.

Insolroll: strong mesh blocks the sun and not your view (and stops any oncoming golf balls!)

SunPro: defends against the elements while maintaining your view.

Sunair: Perfect to expand your outdoor living space.

Contact us today to set up our first visit!

FAQs

Can you use outdoor shades inside?

You can use outdoor shades inside, but choosing specific indoor screens will further compliment your interior design. However, using indoor solar shades outdoors is not advised as they aren’t built strong enough to withstand the natural elements. 

What are outdoor shades called?

Retractable solar shades work like screens and are easier to control. Awnings extend to cover certain outdoor areas, like your patio. The exterior shades are perfect for large windows, three-season rooms, and closed patios. 

Other known monikers are drop shades, retractable shades, motorized screens, motorized shades, sun shades/exterior sun shades, and porch shades, to name a few.

Do solar shades block the view from outside?

During the day, yes. You can enjoy your view without passers-by seeing in through your windows. However, at night that changes because the light from inside the home can shine outwards. So don’t depend on your solar screens to replace your curtains if you live in an area with pedestrian traffic.

A daily ritual for every household the world over. Curtains flung open, the morning light streaming in, as you push up the window to let that often cold breeze rush into the room. Bustling into each room of your home, you open another window and yet another to the point that your house is gushing with fresh, clean air. 

Fresh air is revitalizing, even during the winter months. The fresh sting boosts your energy. It clears away the dust from the corners of your rooms and your groggy, sleepy brain.

But why do we do this? Is airing out your house good? What are the benefits of fresh air in your home?

We have all the answers here in this blog, so keep reading and start your new daily ritual. 

Why air out your house?

Fresh air has 21% of oxygen present. Humans, animals, and plants all need oxygen to survive. Allowing a gush of fresh air through your home each morning will help balance the oxygen levels in your house, among other benefits. 

Remove the stuffiness

After a good night’s sleep, the air becomes stuffy. You can feel how the oxygen levels are lower by just walking into a closed bedroom. As a result of living and breathing, you will have stale air in your house. Letting fresh air through your home removes this carbon dioxide-heavy air and replaces it with new, oxygen-filled air. 

Reduce AC costs

Allowing a natural current of airflow through your home will reduce the need for your AC. If it’s bugs you’re worried about, install door and window screens. Mesh screens promote ventilation while preventing uninvited pests from entering (more on that further on). 

Blows out cobwebs

Don’t like your eight-legged lodger? The fresh air circulating about your home will shake up any cobwebs you have and discourage spiders from camping out between your four walls. Spiders choose houses for many reasons, but an air current can be a reliable prevention method. 

Removes dust

No matter how clean you keep your home, dust always settles, and more so throughout the night without family members moving about. Fresh air lifts this dust and prevents dustballs from forming. It helps move dust from those hard-to-reach places into the limelight to be sucked up later by your vacuum. 

Improve brain health

Your brain needs oxygen to function, to increase concentration and focus. If you work from home, it’s highly advantageous to allow fresh airflow throughout your house. Fresh air brings oxygen, the perfect food for your productivity, attention span, and good humor.  

Eliminate condensation

If you dry your clothes and linen indoors, it’s easy to spot the droplets of condensation that form on the windows. Opening these windows will help clear up that condensation while also removing dampness and improving your laundry’s drying. Airing your laundry room will have your clean, dry clothes smelling fresher than your detergent. 

Other health benefits

Airing out your home introduces many health benefits, like how it cleans your lungs and reduces blood pressure. It affects your family and pets, and your plants. The oxygen present in fresh air is vital for your day-to-day living. 

How to improve indoor air quality safely? 

The number one concern when airing your house is home security. Leaving all your doors and windows open at the same time can seem like an invitation for strangers and pests to enter. To ensure the safety of your home while airing it out, we suggest you install door and window screens.

Screen benefits: 

• Mesh screens to promote ventilation
• Acts as a sunshade
• Can prevent pets and kids from freely running out
• Discourages intruders from breaking in (security screens are an option)
• Retractable options
• Adds to your home security
• Stops flying insects and pests from entering

The screens we have on offer here at Screenmobile are custom built to suit your doors and windows and come in various colors to match your home decor. We carry different brands, and with our training, we will help you select the best while assuring you of a professionally installed job. 

Screens add value to your home and act as a layer of protection for your family and valuables. Browse through our website and contact us to discuss your needs today.

FAQs

How often should you air out your home?

You need to ventilate your home every day to reap the benefits of fresh air. In all seasons, no matter how hot or cold it is outside. 

How long do you need to air out a house?

The longer you can, the better the results. We suggest a minimum of ten minutes for each room. 

How do you completely air out a house?

Have all doors and windows open at the same time. When there is a high wind, place a stopper under your doors. Door frames become weakened with constant banging. You need the air to flow through each room, so all entries must remain open simultaneously.

“It gives our whole family a deep sense of peace knowing we are protected from unwanted intrusion” Amazon Review.

Your house is your home. You feel comfortable and safe while indoors, with your memories securely guarded while you’re out. Your home reflects your personality. Design can often be compromised when it comes to home security. You don’t want barricades or bars; your home isn’t a prison.

Titan security doors can offer you the layer of protection you and your home need, with aesthetically beautiful options. Screened security doors and windows that will be snug and secure, installed by our professionals at Screenmobile. 

If you’re seeking that extra layer of protection for your family home, continue reading. We detail the Titan brand and how their security screen doors and windows can be the best option.

Screenmobile installs Titan Security Doors, so call us today to discuss your screen needs.

What is a security screen?

Screen doors are popular for many reasons, and most households have them installed. They come in varying styles and colors, suiting your home decor and boosting curbside appeal. They add value to your home, and security doors add extra peace of mind for the homeowner. 

Benefits of security screens:

1. Boosts your home’s security.
2. Tough and durable to keep intruders out.
3. Allows fresh air to circulate throughout your home with your door remaining locked.
4. Keeps pests and flying insects outside your home.
5. Prevents pets and kids from running out.
6. Acts as a sunshade in warmer climates and seasons.

Do security screens really work?

You’re at home going about your chores. You want to air out the place in the morning after a night of closed doors and windows. You can’t keep a constant eye on your door as you’re busy and worried about an intruder gaining access to your home. A security screen door is a viable option. 

Maybe you don’t have a security system, and if you do, you’ll likely have it turned off during the day while you’re indoors. A stainless steel security door is durable and protective with woven stainless steel mesh. Titan Security Doors uses an architectural grade aluminum alloy which is six times stronger than steel and durable Meshtec screens, but more about that further down. 

Available for single doors, double doors, and custom sizes.

Interested in a security screen door? – Contact Us Today!

Which screen door provides the most security?

Titan Security Doors are a brand on the market that ticks all the boxes. Screenmobile offers Titan products, and we can assist you from your initial query to installation. 

• Safe
• Secure
• Decorative
• Valuable
• Custom-built
• Professionally installed

Along with security doors, Titan also offers security screens for your windows, standard or custom-built. They boast three types of finishes with a host of choices that will boost your curbside appeal and add value to your home. 

1. Hammertone Finish
2. Sanded Finish
3. Satin Finish

By choosing Titan screen doors, you will also receive a rust-free and home protection guarantee, with a limited lifetime structural warranty.

At Screenmobile, we trust Titan Security Doors and Screens. The material they use is the best on the market, and the benefits provided are everything you need to keep you, your family, your pets, and your belongings safe and secure. 

Are security screens worth it?

Your family’s security and comfort have no price. Don’t hesitate to contact us and discuss your needs and budget to find the best-secured option for your home. Titan’s brochure presents the beautifully designed choices available, and you’re encouraged to browse through it. Discover how you can choose both aesthetics and safety for your security door. 

A selection of Titan Security Doors available

Is Meshtec secure?

Meshtec is a patented and advanced screen protection that’s durable and secure. As a security door mesh, it’s strong enough to resist large dogs from breaking through it to escape and intruders attempting to break in by force or cutting. In addition, this award-winning brand encourages proper ventilation of your home, protects against 60% of UV rays, and preserves your view, eliminating the need for security bars and panels.

Screenmobile with you on your security door journey

Don’t hesitate to choose the best on the market to improve your home security and curbside appeal. Titan Security Doors and Screens is a safe, secure, and beautiful brand. With Screenmobile, you can rest assured of our professionalism, punctuality, and deep product knowledge. We come directly to your home, measure, help you select the best finish, and professionally install what you choose. Give us a call today to discuss your needs or request a free estimate. Protect your home and your family with the best. 

Did you know that a roller awning and solar shades can reduce glare in your home by 94 percent and heat by 77 percent? This means a reduction of your home’s temperature by 8 to 15 degrees, saving you up to 25 percent in air conditioning costs.

Adding solar shades or a retractable awning can be vital for your comfort and even for your wallet, but how do you choose which option is right for your home?

Let us take a look at the benefits each option offers.

Roller Awning or Retractable Awning

A roller awning, also called a retractable awning, is an option that can be simple to install and can offer the protection from the sun and heat you need. It can offer a number of benefits.

Reduces Direct Sunlight

Installing one will minimize exposure to direct sunlight on your patio, terrace, or any other outdoor space. This not only protects you but your outdoor furniture from harmful UV rays, ensuring they do not fade and lengthening their overall use. With sun protection of this type, you can enjoy the summer without the discomfort and even danger of direct sunlight.

Maximizes View

With a retractable awning, you do not have to sacrifice your view for sun protection. You do not have anything blocking the view, and a retractable awning does not affect your home’s design since you can close it and open it when you prefer. They work to allow you to enjoy your view throughout the entire year.

Ease of Use

Retractable awnings range from those that function via hand cranks, which are the easiest to operate, to those that are remote-controlled. If you want to be able to get the perfect level of shade, many times, all you have to do is press a button.

Flexibility

When you choose roller awnings, you are giving yourself the chance to use them or not. You can easily retract them when you want to get more light, like during the winter months, and open them when the sun is bothering you. Flexibility of this type will ensure that your home and even patio or deck space are comfortable throughout the four seasons.

Durability

Retractable awnings are also highly durable as long as you offer maintenance and you work to prevent damage from extreme inclement weather. Most retractable awnings can last between 10 and 20 years, making them an investment worth making.

Solar Shades

The other option you have for enjoying your deck or patio and even some rooms in your home is solar shades. Read on to see the benefits this choice offers.

Create a Protected Outdoor Enclosure

With solar shades, always called solar blinds, you can create an entire outdoor space protected from the sun. People use them for porches as well as outdoor dining areas and decks. They can be custom-fitted to create an all-seasons bonus space.

Not only do solar shades provide protection from the sun, but they can also offer privacy. When you choose solar shades, you do not have to worry about anyone peering in as you spend time outside. For homes that have lots of neighbors, these shades can give you back some privacy.

Solar shades can also protect from insects and other pests. They provide a solid barrier that can reduce your dependence on bug sprays. 

Variety

Solar shades come in lots of styles and opacity levels, ranging from 40 percent to 1 percent openness, to help you find what works best for you. For spaces that get a lot of direct sunlight or for maximum privacy, you want the opacity level to be closer to one percent.

Easy Maintenance

Outdoor solar shades are very easy to keep in great condition. You want to clean them once or twice each season to ensure there are no leaves or other debris sticking to them. Since they are made from a combination of extruded aluminum and fiberglass or polyester mesh, you can easily wipe them clean to remove dust and dirt.

Many of these shades have sensors that can identify high winds and retract them automatically, ensuring they do not get torn. Rain does not damage them and most mild weather events will not have an impact on their function.

Protection From UV Rays

The different opacity levels work to protect your property from UV rays. Solar shades that have an openness level of 1 percent will protect you against 99 percent of UV rays, while higher openness will offer a bit less protection. Depending on the level of sunlight your home receives, you can find the best option.

Retractable Awnings vs. Solar Shades

Although they both offer protection from the sun, there are differences in the benefits they provide.

Solar shades tend to be longer-lasting than retractable awnings because of the materials they are made of and the features they have. They are also better at keeping out insects, which is a concern in the summer months.

Retractable awnings can be easier to install and provide a simple shading solution if you want something that is straightforward and fuss-free. Solar shades offer privacy as well as sun protection, but retractable awnings do not get in the way of your view. 

Deciding on the option that works for your home can come down to personal preference and the use you intend to get from your outdoor space.

Turn to the Experts

When getting ready to decide on whether you want solar shades or a roller awning or retractable awning, you need to have experts helping you. At Screenmobile, we can ensure you find the perfect option for your property.

Request an estimate today!