How to Install a Door Drip Cap

Whether or not you intend on putting a storm door over your exterior door, you may need to install a drip cap. A drip cap will prevent deterioration and water damage to the underlying wood frame in your door. Here's how to install a door drip cap.

Things You'll Need

• Drip cap
• Caulking
• 1/2-inch galvanized screws
• 1 pint exterior paint

Instructions

1. Determine if you need to install a storm door. Most storm door kits come with a drip cap, so you will not need to purchase one separately.

2. Choose proper sizing and placement of your drip cap. Purchase a drip cap for the size of your door. Doors usually come in 32-, 34- or 36-inch widths. In most cases, the top of the brick molding around the door will serve as the place to screw in the door's drip cap.

3. Apply some caulking to the drip cap just prior to installation. This keeps water from getting behind the drip cap.

4. Place the drip cap channel on the top of the door frame. Be sure to center it, or follow the directions that came with your storm door.

5. Screw the drip cap in place. Use the screws provided with your storm door kit, or use galvanized 1/2-inch screws. Paint the screws the same color as the drip cap for a finished look.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're installing a storm door, follow the manufacturer's directions for drip cap installation.

• Purchase caulking and exterior paint in the same color as the drip cap.