How To Replace A Storm Door
Modern storm doors are stronger, smoother and much more aesthetically-pleasing than older models. So, how can you replace and install a storm door yourself? Follow our guide below!
Step 1. Find The Right Door
- Start by measuring the size of the storm door you need to replace – height and width.
- Most storm doors are 36 in. wide.
- Most storm doors are reversible, meaning you can install with the hinge on either side.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s directions when installing the door.
- Mount the door to the exterior door trim by using “Z bars.”
- Some doors will require you to drill holes for the latch.
Step 2. Prepare For Installation
- Find a flat area to lay the new door box down and make sure you have all the parts you need.
- Fold open the box and remove the glass storm panel.
- Check for any damage or missing parts before moving on with the project.
- Use cardboard as a work surface to prevent any scratches on the door.
- Peel away any plastic after the door has been fully installed.
- Next, hinge the storm door on the same side where the exterior door is located.
- If there happens to be an adjoining rail or wall, have the door swing against it.
Step 3. Remove Old Storm Door
- Typically, removing an aluminum door simply involves unscrewing and mounting screws on the door.
- If caulk is featured around the frame, you can cut through it with a utility knife.
- A heat gun can soften the caulk, as well.
- Get rid of the old door by putting the glass panel in the trash.
- Cut up the aluminum frame with a circular saw and carbide-tipped blade.
- Toss all remaining pieces in the recycling bin.
Step 4. Prepare The Opening
- Storm doors will hang to the door trim which is called the exterior casing.
- If your new entry door needs some paint, now is the time to do that.
- Manufacturers tend to make storm doors a bit narrower than traditional openings, so make sure the new door will fit.
- You may need to install one 1/4-in furring strip at this point.
Step 5. Install Storm Door
- It is vital to mount the door securely to the hinge-side trim.
- Tug against the latch side to make sure it is snug.
- Cutting the Z-bar can be a bit difficult. The trick is to center it on the lock and latch.
- Find where it strikes the sill and cut the bottom at an angle where it matches the sill.
- Cut the top next, ensuring it fits against the Z-bar.
- Adjust the closer tension after installation of the door sweep and closers.
- Closers need to be set with the door at its heaviest.
- Save the boxes to store the window and screen panel during the off-seasons.
Required Supplies For Installation
Use these tools and materials if you plan on installing the storm door yourself:
- Caulk gun
- Cordless drill
- File
- Hammer
- Hacksaw
- Pliers
- Level
- Utility knife
- 4-in-1 screwdriver
- Wood chisel
- Combination square
- Exterior paint
- Exterior caulk
- Shims
- Storm door
- Furring strip (1/4-3/4-in.)
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