How to Install a Rain Diverter Into the Bottom of the Door

Remove the hinge pins on the door hinges. Insert a screwdriver tip into the bottom of the hinge channel. Tap the screwdriver with a hammer to push the pin up and out of the pin channel. For easiest removal, begin with the bottom hinge and work upward while a helper supports the weight of the door.

Lay the door on a flat work surface. Examine the bottom edge for rot, splintering or other damage. If the bottom of the door shows damage, use a straight edge to draw a straight line just above the damaged area.

Saw off the damaged area with a circular saw, cutting straight along the drawn line. Remove no more than ½ inch from the bottom of the door, otherwise it may not fit the frame correctly upon reinstallation.

Sand the edge of the door smooth. Begin with a coarse-grit sandpaper to remove the roughest portion on the door. Finish with fine-grit paper to create the smoothest edge possible.

Paint the bottom of the door with a sealer. Apply one coat and allow it to dry for 1 hour. Apply a second coat and allow it to dry completely. Even doors requiring no damage repair benefit from an additional coat of sealer.

Measure the length of the bottom edge of the door. Transfer this measurement to the aluminum door shoe rain diverter.

Cut the door shoe to the necessary length using a hacksaw. Smooth the cut edge with a grinder bit on an electric drill, if necessary.

Slide the door shoe over the bottom of the door. The door fits into the U-shaped channel. Mark the screw hole locations from the shoe onto the door with a pencil.

Remove the shoe and drill a pilot hole at each pencil mark. Use a drill bit one size smaller than the screws included with the shoe installation kit.

Replace the door shoe and screw it into place, using the pilot holes. Place the door back on its hinges and replace the hinge pins. Replace the top pin first and work downward.