How to Make a Wire Screen Doorway

Purchase a screen door kit that contains the necessary rails, frame inserts, decorative brackets, wooden turn buttons and trim. Select a screen door style that complements the decor of your home. Pick up three complementary hinges and a latch set as well.

Purchase wire screening. Look for a fine mesh that will keep out even the smallest bugs.

Assemble your screen doorway kit according to manufacturer instructions. Check for square by measuring the doorway diagonally from corner to corner in both directions. Adjust the framework until all measurements are equal.

Glue the pieces into place with polyurethane glue. Wipe off excess glue with a damp cloth. Use several C clamps to hold the joints firmly together. Allow the glue to completely dry and then apply your chosen stain or paint.

Assemble the wooden frame inserts that came with the kit. Apply the desired paint or stain and let the inserts dry completely.

Stretch the wire screening over the wooden frame insert. Holding the screening taut, cut a piece about 2 inches larger than the frame insert all the way around.

Apply a bit of glue into the grooves of the frame insert. Gently ease the screening into the grooves. Trim off the excess screen with a utility knife. Slide the inserts into the door frame and secure with the wooden turn buttons on the back side of the door.

Stand the door frame in the opening of your door. Align the face of the doorway so it's flush with the face of the door casing. Keep about 1/8-inch space along the sides of the frame and about 3/16-inch space along the top and bottom of the frame.

Install the first hinge about 5 inches up from the bottom of the door. Attach a second hinge 5 inches below the top of the door. Install the third hinge an equal distance between the top and bottom hinges.

Install the latch set along the edge of the rail on the inside of the screen doorway. Screw the casing down onto the door trim.