Should You Install a Sliding Glass Door With a Screen On the Inside?

When Is It a Good Idea to Have a Sliding Glass Door With a Screen on the Inside?

There are several examples of when homeowners should install sliding glass doors with interior screens. Here are a few:

• Accommodating large items: The sliding mechanism makes it easy to move large furniture, appliances, and other items in and out of your home. A standard hinged door may be too small or inconvenient for oversized items.
• Added security: The interior screen door lets you leave the main slider open for fresh air while still keeping insects and intruders out.
• Easy access to backyards: If your home’s layout lacks direct access to an adjacent backyard, a sliding glass door provides a convenient entry and exit.
• Enhanced views: With large glass panels, a sliding glass door maximizes all of the views your home has, which you don’t get with a traditional door.
• Increased home value: Sliders are attractive and add value and appeal. Their abundant natural light and access to outdoor areas make them desirable selling points.
• Increased natural light: Sliding glass doors allow for ample sunlight inside.
• Pet access: You can add a pet door to a sliding glass door so that your furry friends have a special entrance. They won’t need to scratch doors when they want to get in or out.

When Is It a Bad Idea to Have a Sliding Glass Door With a Screen on the Inside?

While interior sliding door screens provide benefits, they also have some potential drawbacks. Here are a few reasons why you may not want to install a sliding door with a screen:

• Accessibility issues: Avoid sliding glass doors in homes with upper levels and balconies. Without gates or bars, they pose serious fall hazards.
• Damage from kids and pets: Children and pets are notoriously tough on screen doors. Nails from dogs and cats can poke holes and tear screens. (Should you need to repair your screen, you can watch our video on how to repair a sliding screen door for more information.)
• Higher installation costs: Installing a sliding glass door costs significantly more than adding a traditional French door. Materials, labor, and modifications add up. Check out our article on sliding patio door costs for an in-depth look at pricing.
• Privacy concerns: The ample glass of a sliding door offers little privacy. Nosy neighbors and passersby may be able to see directly into your home.
• Security risks: Sliding glass doors on ground floors are enticing targets for break-ins. You may need special security measures for added safety.
• Temperature comfort: Expanses of glass make insulating and temperature regulation difficult. Such large panels can lead to inside spaces feeling too hot or too cold.

So, Is Installing a Sliding Glass Door With a Screen on the Inside Right for You?

Ultimately, adding an interior sliding screen door depends on your priorities. If you want to bathe an area in abundant natural sunlight, frame a stellar view, or create easy backyard access, sliding glass doors are ideal.

However, pet owners and parents should ensure their furry friends or rambunctious kids won’t ruin the screens. Owners concerned about temperature regulation or higher heating and cooling costs caused by open doors may want to explore other types of doors better suited for insulation.

Sliding glass doors also demand safety considerations, as they pose risks on upper floors or ground levels. But if installed properly in secure areas, their aesthetic appeal and functionality make them great remodeling projects.

If the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for your particular home, an interior sliding screen door could be a great investment. Weigh the pros and cons before making a final decision.