By limiting air conditioner usage, you’llkeep the energy bill lower.
This easy screen door project requires one-by-two lumber, screen fabric, and basic hardware.
By using flat metal L- and T-brackets, you avoid making complicated wood joints.
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Factory-built andretractable screen doorshave their place.
Any variations will be transferred to the screen door as you build it.
A suitable surface is a concrete patio slab or garage floor.
Lee Wallender
Use a carpenter’s square to adjust the corners to be perfectly square.
Position a flat corner brace at each corner, and attach it with a screw gun and galvanized screws.
Measure the diagonals to double-check the frame is square.
Lee Wallender
If diagonal measurements are equal, the door is in perfect square.
Add the Center Brace
Position the 33-inch center rail between the frame side pieces.
Position the rail at the center point.
Lee Wallender
Secure the center rail to the frame sides with two galvanized flat T braces and galvanized screws.
If the wood is unprotected, it will weather faster and last for fewer seasons.
Let the screen overlap the sides by a few inches, as the excess will later be cut away.
Lee Wallender
It is helpful to have an assistant pull and stretch the screen as you staple it down.
Trim the Screen
With a utility knife, cut away the excess screen material.
For a cleaner look, it helps to use a metal straight edge when cutting.
Lee Wallender
Ensure an even gap between the door and frame around the entire perimeter.
Secure the door to the frame with flat hinges screwed to the door and to the door frame.
Screw the stand-off assembly to the center rail with 2-inch galvanized screws.
Lee Wallender
On the exterior side of the screen door, attach any jot down of door pull.
Some door frames may not be appropriate for a screen door.
Installing a screen door can lower energy bills, provide more natural light, and provide more fresh air.
Lee Wallender
