How to Fix a Screen Door That Slams

Residing two-thirds of the way down most screen doors is a pneumatic piston that controls the speed at which the door closes when released. The annoying slamming sound often heard from a screen door is the result of the piston not having enough pressure to slow the door as it swings closed. Increasing the pressure inside the piston slows the door, allowing it to close gently. Luckily, increasing piston pressure does not require adding messy fluids to the cylinder or installing new components to the system.

Flat-head screwdriver
Phillips-head screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Open the screen door.
- 2
  Slide the holding tab -- located on the chrome shaft of the door piston -- against the back of the piston housing. Release the door to ensure it remains in place.
- 3
  Read the markings on the front end of the piston housing to determine which direction to turn the adjusting screw to increase piston pressure.
- 4
  Insert the tip of a flat-head or Phillips-head screwdriver into the end of the screw -- located in the center of the piston housings front end. Turn the screw in the direction shown to increase closing pressure.
- 5
  Push the door to release pressure from the holding tab. Slide the tab toward the hinge side of the door. Release the door. Reopen the door and adjust the door piston until the door closes slowly but not too slow.
- 6
  Push the pin holding the end of the piston to the door, and move the piston mount one hole toward the door latch if the door does not close after the piston is adjusted.

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