You might think that measuring screen doors would be pretty easy right? Well it is, only if you know how to do it. There are only a few simple instructions you need to follow to get the job done perfectly.

Measuring a single door is a lot different than measuring a sliding door. If you have one already, and you need to replace it, simple measure our old door.

But if you don’t have a sliding door and are installing one for your patio, then you need to know how to measure it.

Sliding screen doors provide you with a nice way to open your door to let the air pass through and not have to worry about the bugs and insects as well.

In this way you can enjoy both the indoors and outdoors without having the added problems of bugs. All you need is a measuring tape, a notepad and pen and you are good to go.

How to Measure for a Sliding Screen Door

Step 1

The first step involves measuring the height of the door. You need to figure out first if you have a U-shape or T-shape track. After that, measure the height of your sliding door.

You need to do this in a series of measurements, leaving a few inches from the previous place you measured from. Use the measuring tape and lace it at the to of the bottom track and take it up to the bottom of the top track.

Repeat this 2-3 times and confirm the smallest measurement out of them.

Step 2

Repeat this same process for measuring width. You need to measure width from 3 places also. One from the top of the door leaving 6 inches, the next one from the bottom of the door leaving 6 inches and the last one from the middle of the door.

Take the smallest measurement and that is your final measurement.

Step 3

After these measurements, you need to deduct on your own, leaving some space between the door and the frame. In case of a T-shape header, add 3/8 inch and for the U-shape header, add 1/8 inches.

Installing Sliding Screen Door

After measuring the sliding screen door, it is now time to install it.

Step 1

Step 1 involves choosing the material of the frame of the screen door you want. Normally, people choose aluminum frames because they are easy to slide open and close and can also resist rust and corrosion.

But for something sturdier, you can use a wooden or steal frame as well.

Step 2

The second step involves mounting the screen door on the existing glass panel. Make sure the handles of both doors are on the same side.

Then you need to loosen the expanders screw on the top and bottom part of the door.

Step 3

A weather strip is present on the edge of the door, you need to remove it for now during installation. The purpose of this strip is to seal the doors to prevent bugs from entering.

Step 4

The next step involves setting the screen door into the top rail of the track. Once the top part if fit nicely, do the same for the bottom of the door. You can make the final adjustments by using a screwdriver and adjusting the expanders.

Step 5

For the next and final part, just put back the weather strip back to its place and make sure you leave no air bubbles behind. You can add an interlock if you want.

Interlocks for Sliding Screen Doors

Having installed a sliding screen door, you can upgrade it next by adding interlocks.

Interlocks will add security to your door, so you don’t have to worry about anyone just entering in interlocks are used to lock the back of the sliding doors into fixed panels, which allows the door to be closed from both sides.

You will need 2 interlocks, one that you install on the back of the sliding screen door and one that is fixed on the fixed door which is also called receiving interlock.

FAQ

Aluminum Track

Sometimes your door does not slide properly on the track, the problem could be on the track as it is usually made with aluminum which can become brittle, its time to change your tracks.

Bent rail/ track

Sometimes tracks become bent or broken, these bent tracks can be fixed by using a hammer to take out the dents.

Lubricant Spray

Never use a lubricant spray to take care of your sliding problems. This can cause dust to stick to your tracks which would further increase the problem.

There can be an issue with the he track or rollers, change them first.

Few Things to Keep in Mind

• It is necessary that you are very careful with your measurements and where you want the door installed. Even a mistake of few millimeters can cause your sliding screen door to get stuck or not fit properly.
• Always measure from the outside looking in so you don’t confuse the side of the lock.
• It is necessary to see if the door has rollers which are compatible with your existing track.
• Always have someone with you while measuring for the screen door.

Conclusion

Installing a sliding screen door on your patio door can be a nice way to protect yourself from germs and bugs. Sliding doors are a great addition and upgrade for your door.

They keep the bugs out and allow enough air and sunlight to get through. It is easy to measure for a screen door if you read the instructions properly, it is easier to install them.

You can also make your own changes by adding paint to the door frame. Hope this made it easier for you on how to measure for a sliding screen door and installing it.