How To: Fitting a New Mobile Home Door

So, you’ve decided it’s time to replace your mobile home door. Whether your old door was damaged, drafty, or just outdated, upgrading to a new one can make a big difference. But where do you start? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. This guide will walk you through the process of selecting and installing your new mobile home door step by step. By the end, you’ll have a secure and stylish new door that enhances your home’s appearance and energy efficiency.

 

Step 1: Choose the Right Door

Before you dive into installation, the first step is choosing the type of door that suits your needs. Most mobile home doors come in two main styles:

1. Out-swing doors: These doors swing outward and are a popular choice for many mobile homeowners because they save space inside your home.
2. Combination doors: These include a built-in storm door and offer added protection against the elements.

Both types have similar installation processes, so the choice largely comes down to personal preference.

 

Step 2: Gather Your Tools and Materials

Here’s what you’ll need to install your new mobile home door:

• Cordless power drill
• 1/4-inch hex-head bit
• Phillips-head bit
• 3/4-inch putty tape
• Putty knife
• 1 1/2-inch hex-head screws
• Wood shims

Having these tools ready before you begin will make the process much smoother.

 

Step 3: Measure the Rough Opening

To ensure your new mobile home door fits correctly, start by measuring the rough opening:

1. Measure the width and height from the outside edges of the casing on the inside of your home.
2. If you have a combination door, remove the interior trim around the jamb to get an accurate measurement.
3. Round up to the nearest 2-inch increment, as mobile home doors are typically sized this way.
4. Measure the depth of the rough opening if you’re installing a combination door.

Finally, determine whether you need a right-hand or left-hand door. Stand outside the door—if the hinges are on the right, you’ll need a right-hand hinge door, and vice versa.

 

Step 4: Prepare the New Door

Once your new mobile home door arrives, unpack it carefully.

• Remove all packaging materials but leave the shipping clips in place.
• Keep the door locked during handling to prevent it from swinging open while you work.

Step 5: Apply Putty Tape

Before you install the door, prepare the rough opening and the door flange:

1. Clean any debris or residue from the old door around the rough opening.
2. Apply a strip of 3/4-inch putty tape to the inside edge of the flange on the new door.
3. Peel off the tape’s paper backing and carefully place the door into the rough opening.
4. Make sure the door sits flush against the opening. Use a putty knife to tuck the putty tape neatly under the flange if it pushes out.

 

Step 6: Secure the Flange

Now it’s time to attach the door securely:

1. Insert the first three screws into the pre-punched holes on the hinge side of the flange.
2. Repeat the process on the lock side.
3. Continue placing screws along the hinge and lock sides until all pre-punched holes are filled.
4. If you’re installing an out-swing door, secure the sill at the bottom of the frame. Skip this step for combination doors.
5. Finally, secure the header (top) of the door with screws.

 

Step 7: Add Finishing Touches

With the door securely in place, it’s time to wrap things up:

1. Remove the shipping clips and open the door.
2. Install any additional hardware, such as locks, safety chains, or damper shocks for storm doors.
3. For combination doors, shim the door frame inside the rough opening if needed. Place shims between the jamb and the wall frame to ensure the door is level and square.
4. Secure the door by driving a few long screws through the jamb into the frame of the rough opening.
5. Reinstall the interior trim you removed earlier to complete the look.

Optional: Add a Personal Touch

If your new mobile home door is paintable, consider giving it a fresh coat of color to match your home’s exterior or add a pop of personality. A colorful door can instantly boost curb appeal

 

Wrapping Up

Replacing your mobile home door is a straightforward project that can be completed in about an hour with the right tools and preparation. Whether you choose an out-swing or combination style, this upgrade will enhance your home’s functionality and appearance.

When you’re ready to shop for a new door, head to Mobile Home Parts Store for a wide selection of high-quality mobile home doors and installation supplies. With your new door in place, you’ll enjoy a more secure and energy-efficient home for years to come.

Now, step back, admire your handiwork, and enjoy the difference a new door can make!

Updated on November 18, 2024: This article has been refreshed with the latest insights, tips, and product recommendations to ensure it provides the most accurate and helpful information for our readers.

 

Tags: Exterior Doors, how to, mobile home door, Mobile home doors, mobile home exterior doors

This entry was posted on Wednesday, March 11th, 2015 at 2:26 pm and is filed under Interior & Exterior Doors. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.