How to Fix a Faulty Latch on a Screen Door
Due to use and often the inferiority of the materials used, storm door latches become faulty making it difficult to latch the door properly. Most people prefer to simply replace the entire latch mechanism. However, the most common problem is the latch strike on the door jamb. Screen door latches are simple latching mechanisms. To fix a faulty latch on a screen door requires making a few adjustment before you decide to replace the entire assembly. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Open the storm door and inspect the door hinges. Look for missing or loose hinge screws either on the door frame or on the door itself. Replace missing screws and tighten loose screws with a Phillips-head screwdriver. Often loose hinge screws will cause misalignment of the door latch and strike plate.
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2
Inspect the strike plate on the door jamb. Most strike plates are angled pieces of metal that screw into the outer frame of the storm door. Tighten the screws securing the strike plate with the Phillips-head screwdriver.
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3
Close the door and watch where the latch makes contact with the strike plate. Open the door and loosen the screws securing the strike plate. Move the strike plate up or down as necessary so that the latch catches the center of the plate. Tighten the securing screws and check the alignment.
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4
Place a 4-level against the strike plate side of the storm door frame. If the door jamb has swollen due to weather and age, it can cause the storm door frame to be out of level. Loosen the screws securing the frame to the door jamb, and move the frame in or out as necessary until it is level. Tighten the screws to secure the door frame to the jamb.
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5
Place a 4-level against the strike plate side of the storm door frame. If the door jamb has swollen due to weather and age, it can cause the storm door frame to be out of level. Loosen the screws securing the frame to the door jamb, and move the frame in or out as necessary until it is level. Tighten the screws to secure the door frame to the jamb.
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Tips & Warnings
Replace the latch assembly if the latch itself is not working. Broken springs cannot be repaired. Follow the manufacturers instructions on the new kit for proper replacement.
