Installing a new screen door can help improve ventilation, keep bugs out, and refresh the look of your home’s exterior. However, finding a screen door that fits your existing door frame properly is key. Measuring the opening carefully before shopping will ensure you select a screen door that aligns and functions well. Follow these simple steps to accurately measure for a screen door.
Use an Appropriate Measuring Tape
When measuring for any new door, it’s important to use an accurate tape measure. Avoid cloth measuring tapes, which can stretch and provide imprecise measurements. Opt for a metal retractable tape measure instead. Make sure the numbers are clearly marked and easy to read to avoid mistakes. Check that the tape measure extends long enough to fully measure larger door openings. An extra-long tape measure is ideal for measuring wide openings.
Measure Width
- Start by measuring the width of the door frame opening at the top, middle, and bottom. Write down all three width measurements.
- For the most accurate width, use the smallest of the three measurements. This ensures the screen door will fit into the narrowest part of the frame.
- Repeat this process on both the interior and exterior frames and use the smallest width. Sometimes the interior and exterior frame widths differ.
Measure Height
- Measure the height of each side of the frame and across the middle. Write down all three height measurements.
- As with the width, use the shortest of the height measurements to ensure the screen door will fit properly.
- Make sure to measure from the same starting point at the very bottom of the frame up to the same stopping point at the top.
Account for the Door Jamb
The door jambs (the vertical pieces of the frame) take up space in the opening. So the precise width and height measurements should be taken from inside edge to inside edge of each jamb. This provides the clear opening size.
Consider the Threshold
The sill or threshold at the base of the door frame also takes up some height. Be sure to measure from the top of the threshold up to determine the clear opening height accurately.
Measure Diagonally
Take two diagonal measurements across the interior frame opening from corner to corner. These measurements should be very close if the frame is perfectly square. Significant differences in the diagonal measurements indicate the frame is not square. In that case, use the smaller measurements for width and height to size the screen door.
Leave a Gap
When ordering the screen door, it’s ideal to leave a gap of at least 1/4 to 1/2 inch between the screen door frame and your existing door frame. This allows space to shim the screen door if needed during installation. Avoid getting a screen door that’s exactly the same measurements as your opening.
Measure Existing Screen Door
If you are replacing an old screen door, measure the old door itself. Write down the width and height measurements. This will give you the exact size to order. You can then confirm the new door will fit by rechecking the opening measurements.
Consider Traffic Flow
Think about which direction the screen door will swing and where it will open. Measure to make sure there is adequate clearance with walls, railings, or other doors. This ensures smooth operation after installation.
Double Check all Measurements
It’s always wise to recheck all of your measurements carefully before ordering a new door. Have a second person also measure the opening for comparison. Accurate sizing is essential to getting the right fit with your new screen door.
Following these steps allows you to measure for a screen door precisely. Be sure to write down all the frame opening measurements and use the narrowest ones when ordering. This guarantees your new screen door will slide right into place and operate correctly. Taking the time to measure properly makes for a smooth installation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Measuring for a Screen Door
Should I measure the exterior or interior side of my door frame?
It’s best to measure both the interior and exterior frames. Oftentimes one side is a slightly different size. Use the smallest measurements to size your screen door to ensure it will fit properly.
What is the easiest way to get a perfect measurement?
Using an extra-long metal retractable tape measure is the easiest way to get very precise measurements. Avoid cloth tape measures which can stretch. Make sure to measure inside edge to inside edge of the frame to get the clear opening size.
What do I do if my frame opening is not perfectly square?
If the diagonal measurements of your door frame differ significantly, this indicates the frame is out of square. In this case, purchase your screen door based on the smaller width and height measurements. This guarantees it will fit in the skewed opening.
How much clearance should I allow between the screen door frame and my existing frame?
It’s ideal to leave about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of a gap between your screen door and the existing door frame. This extra space gives room to shim and level the screen door during installation if needed.
Should I measure at the top, middle, and bottom of the frame?
Yes, you should measure the width of the frame at the top, middle, and bottom. Use the smallest measurement, which ensures your screen door will fit into the narrowest part of the opening properly.
How do I account for the door jambs when taking measurements?
Be sure to measure from inside edge to inside edge of each jamb to get the clear opening size. This excludes the extra width taken up by the vertical jambs.
Why is measuring for a screen door important?
Precise measurements ensure you select a screen door that aligns properly within your existing door frame. An accurate fit also allows for ideal functionality after installation. Taking extra care when measuring can make a big difference in getting the right screen door.
Conclusion
Measuring for a screen door properly takes careful attention to detail. Following these guidelines will have you armed with the right frame opening measurements. Be sure to:
- Use an accurate tape measure, measuring inside edge to inside edge
- Record the width at top, middle, and bottom and use the smallest
- Measure height at both sides and across the middle, using the shortest
- Account for door jamb and threshold thickness
- Measure diagonally to check for squareness
- Leave a 1/4″ to 1/2″ gap around the frame
- Double check all measurements
With the right numbers in hand, you can then shop confidently for a screen door guaranteed to fit your opening perfectly. Taking precise measurements sets you up for a smooth installation and years of trouble-free performance. The small effort to measure meticulously makes a big difference.