Doorways To Better Living
Screen Doors: Let the Outside In
Screen Doors Let the Outside In
Screen doors keep fresh air circulating in the house while keeping your doorways closed. The good news is that you don’t have to be a home repair expert to tackle a simple project like this. Anyone can install a screen door that could save on air conditioning and prevent the bugs from dive-bombing your head in the mild summer evenings.
There are a plethora of places in which to shop for a screen door. You can buy anything from the plain, utilitarian versions to vintage works of art, and everything in between. Check out your local home center, estate sales, auctions or online.
Once you’ve found the perfect screen door, here’s how to install it:
- Measure the width and height of the inside of your door opening with a tape measure.
- Find a screen door as close to the measurements of your door opening as possible. You might have to trim a screen door to fit. If your new screen door is too wide, cut an equal amount from each side before installing.
- Screw in surface mounted hinges into the frame of your door. Use at least three hinges in the frame to attach the screen door to. If the frame doesn't come with pre-drilled holes, drill pilot holes.
- Drill pilot holes in the door for the hinges. Make certain the hinges in the door line up to those in the door frame. Screw in the screws and hinges. Attach the handle to the door plus any door latches to the frame.
- Lift the screen door and place it in the frame, checking it for fit. If needed, remove it to trim for a better fit. You may need one person to hold the door while the other attaches the door to the frame.
- Install the hydraulic or pneumatic closers that came with the door. These may have springs or chain stops to keep the door from slamming.
- Make certain your screen door opens and closes with ease and that the fit is good. Make adjustments as needed.