How to install Storm Doors?

Question

I'm going to buy three new storm doors or maybe security type doors. Two back doors and one front door. I will price both at Home Depot and Lowes. Is this a job that I'm going to be able to do myself with the help of a friend, or is this something a carpenter has to do? Does it take any special tools? I have the basic hand tools. Thanks Margo

Jerry Levine · Accepted Answer

I just finished installing a Pella door for my son-in-law that he bought atLowe's in NC. It's not rocket science. 99% common sense. Read theinstructions thoroughly before doing and it's best to have someone helpingyou. The first door is going to take several hours, the others less

Phisherman · Answer

I installed two "Forever" storm doors purchased from HD. It was fairly easy to do. You'll need a screw driver, hack saw, awl, maybe some caulk. It helps to have a friend to help position the door while the other person fastens the frame. Take your time and follow the instructions carefully.

Jim Nitz · Answer

somethingOne word of caution, and this depends on the door you buy.  Some ofthose wood core doors are now only 3/4" of an inch thick.  If the onesyou purchase are like this, make sure you get the frame hinge screws instraight, or you will find them coming out the back/front of door skin.Seen this before.

Jerry Levine · Answer

The door is the right size but the side pieces are usually about 1 inchlonger. You have to measure the height at each side and cut that frame pieceto the exact size. Sounds complicated but it isn't. You'll see what I meanwhen you open the package and hold the side pieces to the frame of the door.

Phisherman · Answer

Don't worry about the awl.  You can use a nail and a small hammer tomake a dimple for a starting screw hole.  Or, you may need a drill andbit to make pilot holes.

RainMan · Answer

Another word of caution - make sure your door frame is square and plumb.Your storm door won't close and latch smoothly if it has any twist.

TrentÂ© · Answer

Most folks can easily do it with the help of a friend.

Hammer, drill, cordless driver, hack saw, level, prick punch, shims.

Good luck.

Have a nice week...

Trent

Follow Joan Rivers' example --- get pre-embalmed!

margo1 · Answer

Thanks everyone. Guess I all really need now is to buy the doors, which I will do today. Seems I have all the tools needed except the shims. Guess I can get some old wood pieces at the same store. Will let you know how it went on Monday. Thanks again Margo

TrentÂ© · Answer

You should buy that awl too, Margo.  They really come in handy everynow and then.Have a nice week...TrentFollow Joan Rivers' example --- get pre-embalmed!

margo1 · Answer

If anyone is still following this thread, or even really cares about a follow up:) I only bought one storm door to see how that went before I bought the other two. We followed the instructions (wish there had been more pictures) and all went well without a hitch, except some slight arguing about what the instructions were really saying. Three of us (women) did this our self in about four hours. It was a Anderson door, not sure on this but I believe HR 300? Thanks for everyone's help and suggestions

TrentÂ© · Answer

Good job, Margo.  Ya got a good quality door.And buying just one...for a starter...was a good idea.Have a nice week...TrentFollow Joan Rivers' example --- get pre-embalmed!

How to install Storm Doors?

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