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Replacing your mobile home storm door is a great way to boost your home’s protection and comfort. A storm door shields your home from harsh weather, keeps the inside cozy, and adds an extra layer of security. But like anything, storm doors don’t last forever. Over time, even the toughest storm doors can start to wear out. If you’ve noticed signs that your storm door might be past its prime, it’s time to consider a replacement.
Here are some key signs that it’s time to replace your mobile home storm door so that you can protect your home from bad weather.
What is a Storm Door?
A storm door is an extra door that you install in front of your main exterior door. It’s usually made with glass and screen panels that you can swap out depending on the season. While it’s great for protecting your home from the weather, it also offers a few other benefits.
Here’s why you might want to consider one:
- Weather Protection: It acts as a shield for your main door, keeping out rain, snow, wind, and other harsh weather. This helps your primary door stay in good shape and keeps it working properly.
- Energy Efficiency: The extra layer of insulation helps maintain a steady temperature inside your home. This can lower your heating and cooling costs by easing the load on your HVAC system.
- Ventilation: With interchangeable glass and screens, you can switch to a screen when the weather is mild. This lets fresh air in while keeping bugs out.
- Security: Many storm doors come with added security features like reinforced frames, deadbolts, and tamper-resistant hinges, providing an extra layer of protection against intruders.
When Should You Replace Your Storm Door?
Knowing when to replace your storm door is crucial for maintaining your mobile home’s comfort and security.
Here are some signs that it’s time for a new storm door:
The Door Doesn’t Close Correctly
If your storm door doesn’t close properly, it can be a significant issue. A door that won’t latch or stay closed can let in drafts, pests, and even rainwater. This not only reduces your home’s energy efficiency but also poses a security risk. This issue might be due to a worn-out latch, hinges, or frame. A door that doesn’t close securely can also be a safety concern.
There is a Draft
Feeling a draft around your storm door is a clear sign that it needs to be replaced. Drafts indicate that the door is not sealing correctly, allowing cold air in winter and hot air in summer. This can lead to higher energy bills as your heating and cooling systems work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home. Gaps between the door and frame or worn-out weather stripping often cause drafts.
The Screen Is Damaged
A damaged screen on your storm door can be more than just an eyesore. Holes or tears can allow insects and debris to enter your home when the main door is open. If the screen is torn or loose, it’s time to consider replacing the entire storm door. Modern storm doors often come with durable, easy-to-replace screens, making maintenance simple and more efficient.
How to Install a Storm Door
Installing a new storm door can be a straightforward DIY project if you have the right tools and follow the proper steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
1. Measure the Door Opening
Before you shop for a new door, grab your tape measure and measure your current door. For mobile homes, measure from the outside edge of the wood jamb, not the trim like in traditional homes.
- Width: Measure the wood jamb horizontally at the top, center, and bottom.
- Length: Measure from the top of the wood jamb past the threshold to the floor.
To ensure a snug fit and avoid ordering the wrong size, measure twice. Also, note whether your door has a left or right knob and if it’s an inswing or outswing door. To find out, look at the door from the outside and check which side the hinges are on.
2. Remove the Old Door
Carefully remove the old storm door by unscrewing the hinges and any other fasteners holding it in place. If the door frame is damaged, you might need to repair or replace it before installing the new door.
3. Prepare the Installation Area
Make sure all surfaces around the door opening, including siding seams, are flat and secure. Apply a non-hardening sealant tape (like Putty Tape or Butyl Tape) to the back of the door’s mounting flange. Keep the door closed and locked during installation to avoid disrupting the pre-squared alignment.
4. Install the New Door
Gently insert the door assembly into the jamb. Ensure the door sill is firmly on the floor. Position the door against the stud on the hinge side and secure it with Hex Head Screws. Start by driving three screws into the outer pre-punched flange in the middle on the hinge side. Then, drive three screws into the middle on the lock side. Finish by securing the rest of the hinge side, across the sill, up the lock side, and the header.
5. Finish the Installation
Remove the shipping clips and open the door. Install the storm door hardware and safety chain.
6. Secure the Bracket
Install two long screws through the storm door closer bracket into the jamb to anchor the bracket securely to the hinge side stud. If the inner door is secured with butt hinges (like some six-panel doors), run one long screw through each hinge on the jamb side to penetrate the stud.
7. Adjust the Stop
Some doors come with an adjustable stop. Adjust it to ensure a good seal against the exterior of the inner door.
Upgrade Your Mobile Home with a New Storm Door
Replacing your mobile home storm door is an excellent way to improve your home’s energy efficiency, comfort, and security. By following the steps outlined above, you can confidently install a new storm door and enjoy the benefits it brings. When you’re ready to purchase a new storm door, look no further than Mobile Home Parts Store. They offer a wide selection of high-quality storm doors and all the accessories you need to complete your project. Enhance your mobile home today with a new storm door from Mobile Home Parts Store!
Tags: manufacture home, mobile home, mobile home screen door, mobile home storm door, mobile home storm doors, storm door
