Storm doors protect the entry door from driving rain or snow. They create a dead air buffer between the two doors that acts like insulation. When the screen panels are in place, the door provides great ventilation on a hot day. And, they deliver added security, especially when outfitted with a lockset and a deadbolt lock.
If you want to install a brand new storm door or replace an old one that’s seen better days, your first job is to go shopping. Storm doors come in many different styles to suit just about anyone’s design needs. And they come in different materials, including aluminum, vinyl, and even fiberglass. (Wood storm doors are still available but not in preassembled form. ) All these units feature a pre-hung door in a frame that is mounted on the entry door casing boards. Depending on the model you buy, installation instructions can vary. So be sure to check the directions that came with your door before starting the job.
How to Install Storm Door
Things You’ll Need
1. Test fit the door in the opening. If it is loose, add a shim to the hinge side of the door. Cut the piece with a circular saw and nail it to the side of the jamb, flush with the front of the casing.
2. Install the rain cap at the top of the door opening. The directions for the door you have will explain exactly how to do this. Sometimes it’s the first step, like we show here; sometimes it’s installed after the door is in place.
3. Measure the height of the opening and cut the hinge flange to match this measurement. Use a hacksaw and work slowly so the saw won’t hop out of the cut and scratch a visible area of the hinge.
4. Lift the door and push it tightly into the opening. Partially drive one mounting screw near the bottom and another near the top. Check the door for plumb, and when satisfied, drive all the mounting screws tight to the flange.
5. Measure from the doorway sill to the rain cap to establish the length of the latch-side mounting flange.
6. Cut the latch-side flange with a hacksaw. Work carefully so you don’t pull out the weather-stripping from the flange channel as you cut.
7. Install the latch-side flange with a couple of partially-driven screws. Then check that the opening width is the same at the top, middle and bottom. When you’re satisfied that this flange is parallel to the hinge flange, install all the mounting screws securely.
8. To install the door sweep, slide it over the bottom of the door and install its mounting screws loosely. Make sure the sweep forms a tight seal with the sill, then tighten the screws.
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