10-Step Guide to Installing a Screen Door
A screen door is an excellent addition to any home, providing ventilation. It is also the most effective natural form of insect protection. But before you can enjoy the benefits of your new screen door, you need to install it! Like replacement windows, screen doors are relatively easy to install. Yet, there are things you need to note before installing a screen door.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through installing a screen door, from measuring the door to attaching the hardware. By the time you’re finished, you’ll be confident in this DIY project.
1. Gather Tools and Materials
You’ll need a few tools and materials before you get started with installing your screen door. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need:
- Tape measure
- Level
- Drill
- Drill bit
- Screws
- Screen door
- Utility knife
- Screwdriver
- Staple gun
- Construction adhesive
Once your tools and materials are gathered, you can start the installation process.
2. Remove the Old Door
You need to remove the old screen door before installing the new one. This process is relatively simple but requires removing some screws, hinges, and other parts. Get rid of the screws holding the old door in place. These are usually located at the top and bottom of each panel. You can also find them on the sides or back of your screen door.
Once all the screws have been removed, lift on both sides of the screen door until it comes off easily. If the door is a sliding door, start by removing the door handle and then gently pushing the door out of the frame.
Some screen doors also use glass panels. If you have trouble removing your old, damaged screen door or consider it to pose safety risks, seek help from companies that handle replacement windows. The professionals can safely remove your damaged screen door with the right tools and get the new one done in no time.
3. Measure the Door Frame
To measure the door, first determine the width of the door. The door width should be measured from the outside of the doorframe, from one side to the other. Once you have the width of the door, you can then measure the height of the door. You should measure the height of the door from the top of the doorframe to the ground. The width should be at least 1′ less than your doorway opening.
For example, if you have a 32″ wide doorway, make sure your screen door is no more than 30″. If it is more than that, then make sure it is less than 31″.
4. Add Weather Stripping
Weather stripping replacement windows is a great way to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Weather stripping can help keep out drafts and cold air while also keeping warm air from escaping. Once you have measured your door, you can use weather stripping to secure it to the frame.
Place strips around the edges of the frame and then slide them into place along with a few screws. Secure all four corners tightly before attaching any other pieces of weather stripping. This will help reduce noise and ensure your door doesn’t slide out of place when it’s opened and closed.
5. Purchase the Screen Door
Screen doors are available in all sizes, types, and colors. Select one that complements your home and patio. Purchase the new screen door after taking measurements from your existing door.
The most important information to have when purchasing a new screen door is the width of your existing window and the height of your existing door frame. You can then use this information to purchase a screen door that will fit into your doorway. Purchasing your new screen door from replacement window companies can be a good option.
6. Assemble the Frame of the Door
Begin installing your screen frame by fitting each of the four sides together using a box-like configuration. Before fastening the corners with screws or nails, stand up your frame in your doorway to ensure it fits correctly. To secure the screen frame, fasten two pieces of wood across each side and attach them to a stud in your home.
7. Check for Square
The next step in installing your screen door is to make sure you have a square frame. If you don’t, this could cause problems with the screen door.
To check if your frame is square, place a measuring tape around the center of one side of the frame and mark where it makes contact with the ground or other objects. Do this again on the other side of the frame and compare those measurements. If they’re not equal, you may need to adjust the frame to be perfectly level before moving on to the next step.
8. Install the Hinges and Handle
Start by installing the top hinge. Place the hinge on the top of the door. Ensure that the screws line up with the holes in the hinge. Use a drill to screw the hinge into place and repeat this step for the bottom hinge. You will need a drill to make pilot holes for the handle.
Be sure to use the proper size drill bit for the screws you are using. Use a level to ensure the handle is level before attaching it to the door. Start at the top of the door and go down.
9. Attach the Screen to the Door Frame
Installing a screen door is a great way to keep pests out of your home while still enjoying the fresh air. While the process may seem daunting, it’s pretty simple.
Start by attaching the screen to the door frame. Next, use a drill to screw the screen into the door frame. Make sure to use screws that are long enough to go through the frame and into the door.
10. Check for Plumb
Once you have checked that the door is square and straight, you need to check that it is plumb. To do this, use a tape measure and place it along the top of your door frame with one end at each side of the doorway. Make sure that they are even with each other, then pull out your spirit level again as before and ensure that they are both vertical with no lean at all. If there is any lean, adjust until everything’s straight before continuing this process.
Conclusion
When it comes to improving the energy efficiency of your home, replacement windows are a must. The screen door prevents bugs from entering your living space and adds a great rustic touch to your home. Installing a screen door in your home can be fairly straightforward. Overall, it’s usually inexpensive but should not be taken lightly. An improperly installed screen door can cause damage to your door frame and could cost you hundreds of dollars in repair bills. You can install a screen door with the right tools and resources.
