Screen Door Problems

Failure to Close

• Common screen door issues include the failure to close properly. There are many possible causes for screen doors that remain ajar or do not close tightly. If the hydraulic piston or closer is not adjusted properly it can cause the door to come to rest anywhere from a fraction of an inch to a few inches short of the closed position. Screen doors with glass inserts instead of wire mesh may trap air between the screen door and the main entry door behind it and fail to close. If your screen door has a rubber seal at its bottom, the drag that a faulty installation may cause can prevent the door from shutting tightly. Problems with your screen door hinges, such as over-tightened hinge screws, or a bent hinge can also cause the door to stop closing properly.

Handles

• Screen door handles that do not lock into the closed position properly may also cause problems. If this happens to your screen door, the cause may be the latch mount on the inside of the doorframe. If the latch tilts too high or low, the handle may not be able to attach itself at the correct angle. The hydraulic piston or closer may also be to blame if it is set too tightly and is not allowing the door handle to reach the closed position.

Screens

• A common problem with aluminum-frame screen doors is with the screens themselves. Lightweight aluminum screens are ideally suited to stopping insects and debris from entering your home, but they are quick to tear and can be rendered useless by the slightest of stresses. Sharp objects, forceful impacts and jumping pets can all punch holes and otherwise damage screens. Thankfully, screens are not too difficult to repair, and replacement parts are readily available.

Leaks

• Water between your screen door and the entry door behind it may indicate a problem. Faulty bottom seals may be responsible; adjusting the seal to sit lower should block out any water. Gaps around the screen-door frame where it meets the building doorway can also be the cause of your leaks. If your screen door has holes beneath the glass or mesh insert on the outside of the door, check to see if they have become blocked, preventing drainage.

Noises

• Screen doors are sometimes prone to squeaks or other grating noises produced as they open and shut. Many times tight, new hinges produce squeaks until they wear-in with normal use or the application of lubricating oil. If the doorframe or the doorway itself is out of line, the resulting pressure can cause the metal frame of the door to rub and produce a grating noise. The inside rail screws may also cause noises to emanate from the screen door if they have been installed too tightly.