How To Measure For A Storm Door –How to Measure for a Storm Door If you’re considering adding a storm door to your home, it’s important to get the measurements right. A storm door not only provides added protection from the elements, but it can also enhance the overall look of your home. Measuring for a storm door can seem daunting, but with the right tools and guidance, it can be done easily and accurately. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to measure for a storm door and provide helpful tips to ensure a perfect fit. Section 1: Understanding Storm Door Measurements Before you start measuring, it’s important to understand the terminology used in storm door measurements. Here are some common terms you should know: – Rough opening: This is the space where the door will be installed. It includes the door frame and any trim around it. – Brickmould: This is the trim that surrounds the exterior of the door frame. It’s usually made of wood or PVC and serves as a decorative element. – Jamb depth: This is the thickness of the door frame, from the interior to the exterior. – Door size: This is the actual size of the storm door, including the frame. Section 2: Measuring the Rough Opening The first step in measuring for a storm door is to measure the rough opening. This will determine the size of the door you need. Here’s how to do it: Step 1: Measure the width of the opening. Use a tape measure to measure the width of the opening from one side to the other. Measure at the top, middle, and bottom of the opening, and record the smallest measurement. Step 2: Measure the height of the opening. Use a tape measure to measure the height of the opening from the top to the bottom. Measure at the left, center, and right of the opening, and record the smallest measurement. Step 3: Measure the depth of the opening. Use a tape measure to measure the depth of the opening from the interior to the exterior. This will determine the jamb depth you need. Step 4: Check for squareness. Use a carpenter’s square to check if the opening is square. This means that the angles are all 90 degrees. If the opening is not square, you may need to adjust your measurements accordingly. Section 3: Measuring the Brickmould Once you have the measurements for the rough opening, you’ll need to measure the brickmould. This will determine the size of the door frame. Here’s how to do it: Step 1: Measure the width of the brickmould. Use a tape measure to measure the width of the brickmould from one side to the other. Measure at the top, middle, and bottom of the brickmould, and record the smallest measurement. Step 2: Measure the height of the brickmould. Use a tape measure to measure the height of the brickmould from the top to the bottom. Measure at the left, center, and right of the brickmould, and record the smallest measurement. Step 3: Check for squareness. Use a carpenter’s square to check if the brickmould is square. If it’s not square, you may need to adjust your measurements accordingly. Section 4: Choosing the Right Size Storm Door Now that you have the measurements for the rough opening and the brickmould, you can choose the right size storm door. Storm doors are available in standard sizes, so you’ll need to find one that matches your measurements as closely as possible. If your measurements are in between sizes, choose the next size up and trim it down to fit. Section 5: Tips for Measuring for a Storm Door Here are some additional tips to help you measure for a storm door: – Measure twice, cut once. Double-check your measurements before ordering a storm door. A mistake can be costly and time-consuming to fix. – Use a level. Make sure your rough opening and brickmould are level. If they’re not, you may need to make adjustments before installing the storm door. – Consider the swing direction. Decide which way you want the storm door to swing. This will determine the hinge placement and the handing of the door. – Don’t forget the weatherstripping. Make sure to leave enough room for weatherstripping when measuring for a storm door. This will help prevent drafts and air leaks. Section 6: Conclusion Measuring for a storm door doesn’t have to be a difficult task. By following these steps and tips, you can ensure a perfect fit for your home. Remember to take accurate measurements, choose the right size storm door, and consider the swing direction and weatherstripping. With a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll have a beautiful and functional storm door in no time. FAQs: Q1: Can I install a storm door myself? A: Yes, you can install a storm door yourself if you have the necessary tools and skills. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure a proper installation. Q2: Can I use my existing door frame for a storm door? A: It depends on the condition of your existing door frame. If it’s in good condition and the measurements are correct, you can use it for a storm door. However, if it’s damaged or not level, you may need to replace it. Q3: What materials are storm doors made of? A: Storm doors are typically made of aluminum, steel, or vinyl. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. Q4: Do I need a storm door if I have a screen door? A: A screen door provides ventilation and keeps insects out, but it doesn’t provide the same level of protection from the elements as a storm door. If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, a storm door may be a good investment. Q5: How often should I replace my storm door? A: The lifespan of a storm door depends on the quality of the materials and the level of use. Generally, a well-maintained storm door can last up to 10 years or more. If you notice signs of wear and tear, such as rust or damage to the frame, it may be time to replace it.