How to Install a Hurricane Door
- 1). Measure the door frame carefully. This is necessary to ensure you create a watertight seal. Do not assume the measurements of the old door you are taking down will work. Instead, measure the door frame. This will help you to know whether you will need a frame insert of some kind, or can use one of the mass produced hurricane doors without any additional hardware.
- 2). Position the hurricane door on sawhorses. Using the tape measure, determine the position for the doorknob or handles. Mark the spot with a pencil, and use the drill and routing tool to create an opening. If the door already has an opening for the doorknob, this step is not necessary.
- 3). Install the doorknob. This is accomplished by placing the two sections into place and using a screwdriver to secure the sections to one another. Screws usually come with the new doorknob assembly.
- 4). Check the fit of the door into the doorframe. This is accomplished by placing the door into the frame proper. Remember to place a couple of shims on the threshold to make sure the door position is correct. Note any gaps that may be present along the sides of the top. If there are none, then no frame inserts will be necessary.
- 5). Secure the door to the frame. This is accomplished by pushing the hinges flush with the jamb and securing the hinges with screws. Secure the top hinge first, then swing the door into locking position.
- 6). Check the angle of the door. Using a level, make sure the door is fitting into the door frame properly. If the angle is correct and the fit is flush, proceed to the next step.
- 7). Secure the bottom hinge to the doorframe. As with the top hinge, make sure the fit is flush. This will help to create a tighter seal.
- 8). Test the door. While heavier than a standard door, the hurricane door should swing with ease on the hinges. Close the door and inspect the frame to make sure the fit is flush all the way around. Remember that the threshold should provide an adequate seal along the bottom of the door. If not, consider adding a rubberized strip to help create a seal that will not interfere with the operation of the door.
- 9). Install the closer mechanism. This is a simple rod device with a connecting pin that helps to provide extra strength in the case of strong winds. With the door shut, fasten the bracket on the device to the doorjamb on the inside of the frame. Use a connecting pin to join the closer mechanism to the bracket on the door. The pressure valve on the mechanism will allow the speed of the door opening and closing to be adjusted.
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Attach the safety chain. The chain should be long enough to allow the door to open to no more than a 90-degree angle when engaged. The chain may be attached at the interior top of the door or along the middle or bottom section. Generally, the chain will be positioned for easy removal and connection in the event of an emergency.
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