On many homes, the storm door becomes the first heavily used item to need replacement. A nice storm door can be an attractive feature. One that has run its course can turn into an eyesore. Replacing a storm door will add value to your home, as well as, protect your more expensive exterior door. Installing a new storm door is not an extremely difficult task if you take your time.
Begin by measuring your old storm door or the size of your entrance.
One of the most important steps to installing a new storm door is to be sure to purchase the right size door. Measure both the width and height of the opening. If you are removing an old door, just measure the door. Double check the size of the flange that secures the door to your house. You do not want to buy a new storm door and have to remodel your house to install it. Most flanges come in a standard size, but a few are different.
Purchase the correct door.
Take all of these measurements with you to the home center to buy the new door. If you have any uncertainty, do not be afraid to ask for help before making the purchase. If your opening is a various of a standard size, you may have to special order the door. This is not usually a problem. The style of door is just a matter of personal taste.
Clean the area where the door will fasten to the house.
Especially in the case of a replacement door, the area where the door attaches to the frame of the house can need to have old caulk and debris scraped away. This will provide a nice smooth surface for the new door frame and flange to rest. If any of the wood is decaying, you may need to replace or repair this before installing the new door. If the area needs touch up painting, do this now to avoid getting paint on the door.
Remove the wrapping from the door in a place where you are unlikely to lose small parts. Out in the lawn is not a good plan unless you put down some type of sheet to catch the pieces before they vanish into the grass. The storm door should already be attached to the flanges with hinges.
You should have about 20 to 30 screws for attaching the door the house. Most storm doors will come with a spring and chain attachment for the top of the door. This will keep the door from flying open too far in a wind or other circumstances. If an automatic closer does not come with the door, you may be able to use your old one. However, it is better to install a new one with your new door.
If the door is the right size, it should fit somewhat securely into the opening. Make sure that it fits well on all four sides. The flange will only extend around three sides, but you do not want the door dragging across the threshold. Be certain that the two upper corners have a good square shape. You may want to use a carpenter’s square to verify this. If the door does not hang evenly and level, it will not open and close correctly. Use a level on the top of the door to establish that it is level. You may need a second person to hold the door in this position until several screws can be inserted.
Using a cordless electric screw driver, put a screw into each pre-drilled hole on the storm door flanges. Do not over tighten the screws because they will dent the flange and give it an uneven appearance. It is best if you put the screws nearest to the upper corners in first and recheck for level and square. When you are satisfied that the door is right, finish installing the remainder of the screws.
Attach the other hardware to finish the job.
With the storm door closed, position the interior catch for the door latch on the jamb. It will attach with 2 or 3 screws. Fasten the chain assembly, if necessary, to the top of the door. Fasten the automatic closer to the door and jamb. Adjust the closer to close and latch the door. You may choose to apply caulk around the exterior of the flanges to seal them to the house. After disposing of the wrapping and cleaning the area, the job should be complete, and the door ready to enjoy.
