Types of Screen Doors and How to Pick the Right One

Buying and installing a screen door is a home improvement task that you can likely take on yourself if you are handy or trust in your DIY talents. However, you do need to decide whether you want a hinged, retractable, or sliding screen door. And, depending on the complexity of the existing door frame, you may want to consider hiring a professional handyperson to handle the project.

1. Hinged Screen Doors

The most common type of screen doors, hinged screen doors are essentially a standard hinged door with a screen instead of a solid material. They usually have three-part hinges on aluminum or vinyl frames, and may also have glass panels that can slide or lock open. Some hinged screen doors have dampeners so they won’t slam closed due to wind or drafts.

Pros

• Simple to install

• Available in a variety of styles

• Lockable doors add security

Cons

• Less durable than some other types of screen door

• Detract from the look of the front door

• Requires the opening of two doors to access the home

Best For: Households with kids or pets, handy DIYers, homes with a traditional style

2. Retractable Screen Doors

These screen doors retract or nearly disappear into the doorframe when they are closed, making them an attractive option. They consist of a metal frame with tracks on the top and bottom, a canister that houses the screen on one side, and a magnet or hook that holds the door on the other side. It all mounts on the inside or outside of the existing door jamb.

Pros

• Doesn’t block your view when not in use

• More durable, since it doesn’t stay exposed to the elements

• Highly customizable to fit different sized door frames

Cons

• Higher maintenance due to retracting mechanism and housing

• More expensive to purchase and install

• Can snap shut quickly, making them a potential hazard for small children and pets

Best For: Homeowners who don’t want an impeded view, homes without small children

3. Sliding Screen Doors

These are your typical sliding doors, but with a screen instead of a glass panel or other material. They open and close on a track that has either rollers or tensile springs. You will likely need these types of screen doors if you have sliding glass patio doors on the rear or side of your home.

Pros

• Easier to open than traditional doors

• Usually offer a wider opening and more airflow

• Looks seamless with sliding patio doors

Cons

• Tracks and rollers need frequent maintenance

• Expensive to purchase and higher screen door repair cost

• More difficult to replace screen door mesh, if torn or stretched

Best For: Homes with sliding patio doors, households who need easy access to outdoor spaces

4. Storm Doors

Storm doors offer more protection from the elements, due to their glass panels, but many come with screen panels that can be slid into place to replace a glass panel. Storm doors allow both the security of an added layer of protection, and access to the light and fresh air of the outdoors.

Pros

• Screens can be moved to offer protection from weather

• Lockable to add a layer of home security

• Sturdy and durable

Cons

• Sliding screens in and out of place can be inconvenient

• More expensive than traditional screen doors

• Can be difficult to install

Best For: Homes in areas with extreme weather, security-conscious homeowners

5. Magnetic Screen Doors

Looking for the benefits of a screen door without the complicated installation? A magnetic screen door is just the thing! These doors affix to the door frame with adhesive or tacks, and consist of two panels held together with magnets along the center of the doorway where the panels meet.

Pros

• Inexpensive

• Low-maintenance

• Simple to install

Cons

• Less polished-looking than traditional doors

• Less sturdy

• May need to be replaced more frequently

Best For: Households with pets, active families, budget-conscious homeowners

Things to Consider When Buying a Screen Door

When it comes time to install or replace a screen door in your home, there are a number of factors to consider when deciding which style is best for you and your house.

• Budget: Types of screen doors vary significantly in terms of price, so your budget will help steer you in the right direction.

• Size: Depending on the size of your door frame, one type of door may be more appropriate for the measurements you’re working with.

• Installation: Some doors are easy to DIY, but others may require a local door installer. Keep screen door installation costs in mind when deciding.

• Style and material: Look for a screen door that matches your home’s look and comes in your preferred material.

• Security: Security-conscious homeowners should look for sturdy, locking doors that offer some additional home protection.