DIY Storm Door Safety Chain

Position a header bracket designed for 10-by-3/4-inch screws onto the upper interior portion of the storm door frame, which is the head jamb. Put the header bracket at least 18 inches from the hinge side of the door frame and 1 1/2 inches from the front of the head jamb. Place the bracket at a 45-degree angle to the door when the door is open. Mark the two holes of the header bracket with a pencil. Drill each hole deep enough for two 10-by-3/4-inch round-head screws. Drive the screws in using a screwdriver.

Place a door bracket designed for 12-by-5/8-inch screws about 19 inches from the hinge side of the storm door and 1 1/2 inches from the upper portion of the storm door. Use a 19-inch chain to judge the appropriate distance. The storm door needs to be able to open to the outside but not open far enough to hit an exterior wall. The chain should hang in a U shape when storm door is closed. Position the door bracket so its pre-drilled holes are vertical. If the storm door lacks pre-drilled holes for a door bracket, then mark holes for the bracket with a pencil and drill the holes. Then use a screwdriver to screw in the two 12-by-5/8-inch round-head screws.

Secure one end of the safety chain to the door bracket and the other end to a 4- to 6-inch spring. Secure the spring to the header bracket.

Connect a 2- to 4-inch spring to a link in the middle of the safety chain. Measure 3 inches from the hinge side of the head jamb, and drill a hole in that location. Wrap the spring around the head of one 10-by-3/4-inch round-head screw, and put the screw in the head jamb with the screwdriver.

Open the storm door as far as you can. The door should open 90 degrees or fewer to minimize wind damage, and the safety chain should pull taut. If door opens too far, adjust the door bracket by moving it farther from the hinge side of the door frame.