How do you fit a new screen door?

Fitting a new screen door involves several steps, from measuring the opening to securing the hinges. Here's a comprehensive guide:

1. Measure the Door Opening

Accurate measurements are crucial for a properly fitting screen door.

Width: Measure the width of the door opening at the top, middle, and bottom. Use the narrowest measurement.
Height: Measure the height of the door opening on both the left and right sides. Use the shortest measurement.
Thickness: Note the thickness of the existing door frame to ensure compatibility with the new screen door.

If you are replacing an old screen door, carefully remove it.

Unscrew Hinges: Unscrew the hinges connecting the old door to the frame.
Remove Frame (If Necessary): If the old frame is damaged or doesn't fit the new door, remove it carefully, avoiding damage to the surrounding wall.

Decide which side you want the hinges to be on (left or right). This will determine the door's swing direction.

Check the Dimensions: Verify that the new screen door's dimensions match the measurements you took earlier.
Hardware: Ensure you have all the necessary hardware, including hinges, screws, a handle, and a latch.

Some screen doors require a hinge channel to be installed.

Measure and Mark: Measure and mark the position of the hinge channel on the door opening.
Cut the Channel (If Necessary): If the hinge channel needs to be shortened, cut it to the correct length.
Attach the Channel: Secure the hinge channel to the door opening using screws.

Carefully position the screen door within the opening.

Align the Door: Ensure the door is aligned correctly within the frame.
Attach Hinges: Attach the hinges to both the door and the frame. Start with one screw per hinge to allow for adjustments.
Check the Swing: Test the door's swing. It should open and close smoothly without binding.
Secure Hinges: Once you're satisfied with the alignment, install the remaining screws in the hinges.

Install the handle and latch according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure the latch aligns correctly with the strike plate on the door frame.

Check for Gaps: Inspect the door for any gaps around the edges. Adjust the hinges or strike plate as needed to eliminate gaps.
Lubricate Hinges: Lubricate the hinges to ensure smooth operation.

By following these steps, you can successfully install a new screen door.