DIY: Skirting Access Doors

Measure the opening for the access door. It should be at least 2 feet wide and reach from the ground to the bottom of your house. Cut the area for your new access door with a handsaw, if a hole for the door is nonexistent.

Cut wood to specified measurements with a band saw and build the door frame. Use treated plywood that's weather resistant for the frame and door. The bottom of the frame closest to the ground needs to be 2 inches by 8 inches, while the top and two sides can be 2-inch by 6-inch boards. Nail frame together with flat-head nails.

Nail 1--inch by 4-inch boards along the top and two sides. Smaller boards should flare outwards, providing an outside frame for the door.

Measure the inside of the door frame opening. Cut the access door out of a piece of 3/4-inch or 5/8-inch treated plywood. Door should fit without sticking. You may need to sand the edges of the door if certain areas are tight-fitting. Attach the door handle to the center of the door.

Cut two latches with scrap wood from 1-inch by 4-inch plywood to measure 2 inches by 5 inches. Drill one hole in one end of each latch and a hole in the center of both sides of the 1-inch by 4-inch frame. Screw latches to each side of the frame so that you can turn them freely. Latches shouldn't interfere with your ability to insert and remove the door.

Drill two holes in the top and two holes in bottom of the frame. Install the door frame in the hole in your home’s skirting. Secure frame into skirting by using 3-inch to 4-inch screws through the top of the frame. Use spikes or long nails to fasten the frame to the ground. Set the door into the frame. Use latches to lock the door into place.