Selecting a storm door: Most manufacturers choose aluminum as the frame for storm doors because it's stronger, more weather resistant and easier to install.

While you might buy an aluminum door with a wood core, all aluminum is the better investment, says Ron Koralewski, a salesman for the Joe Wilde Co. in New Berlin, Wis.

“Aluminum is thicker and more rigid. Wood has some flex to it,” he says. Aluminum doors are sold in various degrees of thickness. The thicker the aluminum door, the sturdier it is, Koralewski says.

Also, consider sun-blocking glass for your storm door to protect your main entry door from fading or warping if it faces the sun most of the day.

— Angie's List