How to Repair a Sagging Storm Door

What benefit does a sagging storm door offer? None at all. You definitely shouldn't have to endure this issue, either.

Fix your sagging door with a simple do-it-yourself project. You don’t need expert skills, just set aside an hour and gather the right tools. Whether you need to adjust the hinges, install a turnbuckle, or fix a sagging storm door altogether, most solutions are simple and affordable.

Secure a Loose Metal Frame

The most common culprit behind a sagging storm door is the issue of the metal frame that surrounds the door coming loose, not the wood trim. To fix this problem with your sagging storm door, you’ll need stainless steel screws, a shim, and your drill.

You can suspect that the metal frame or surrounding molding is to blame if your storm door is having trouble opening or closing, scraping against it as you pull. If you push the door up and down and the molding moves, start by securing it with a few extra nails at the top of the wood trim.

Add more nails along the trim if needed, then cover the nail heads with caulking and finish with a coat of paint. You may also notice a gap between the door and the frame if it's come loose.

Stick a shim between the door and its metal frame. Next, tighten the screws already in the frame and drill additional holes for your new stainless steel screws. Be careful not to drill into the wood molding with your 3/16-inch bit — use a 3/32-inch pilot hole instead. Add two or three screws at the top to help repair the sagging door.

Install a Turnbuckle for Support

A turnbuckle is a brace that reinforces the door. Essentially, it’s a metal rod with threaded ends, and by installing one, you can easily fix the sag of a sagging screen door. However, the turnbuckle will change the overall look of your door, which is something to keep in mind.

You can purchase a turnbuckle in two sizes: 42” or 50”, for doors under or over 36” wide. Other supplies you’ll need are your drill, appropriate bits, and a tape measure.

Thread and Position the Turnbuckle

Begin by threading the coupling nuts onto either end of the turnbuckle. Then, position it about 2” above the door’s bottom corner on the handle side — not the hinge side. Slant it upward toward the hinge side to help stabilize any door that’s low on its hinges.

Make sure the turnbuckle is flush against the screen door. Open and close the door a few times to check that it doesn’t interfere with operation. Mark the screw hole positions on the screen door.

Drill Pilot Holes and Tighten Everything

Next, drill pilot holes where you marked the spots. Don’t fully tighten the screws until all are in place. Then, manually tighten the turnbuckle by turning the coupling nut until the door becomes level. You may need a wrench or pliers if it gets hard to turn.

A turnbuckle might not look perfect, but it works — and most people won’t even notice it. Best of all, your storm door will close like it should again.

Upgrade Old Door Hardware

Sometimes, a misaligned or sagging storm door just needs better hardware. Because storm doors are exposed to the elements, hinges and screws can rust and weaken.

If the frame and molding look secure, the problem might be outdated hardware. Consider hinge replacement with slightly larger, stronger hardware to provide better support and help repair a sagging door effectively.

Add a Shim to Realign the Door

Fixing a sagging storm door can also be as simple as inserting a shim. Start by unscrewing the bottom hinge and cleaning away debris or grime buildup.

Use a piece of wood or even sturdy cardboard as a shim. Place it behind the hinge, then screw everything back into place. If the door still doesn’t close all the way, try a thicker shim to correct the alignment.

Test the door’s movement after the shim is installed. It should open and close smoothly with no large gap at the bottom.

Maintain Your Storm Door

Storm doors go through a lot: wind, rain, slamming, and constant use. Checking them once or twice a year can help you catch issues before they become major problems, including if the door starts to sag or feel misaligned.

Don’t ignore the signs — fix a sagging storm door before it gets worse and keep your entryway looking and functioning its best.

Replace the Sagging Screen Door if Needed

Sometimes the best way to fix a storm door is to replace it. Ongoing problems like warping, sticking, or a door that just doesn’t close properly could mean it’s time for something new.

That's why over 400,000 homeowners have trusted Feldco for storm door replacement. In fact, Feldco has replaced over 100,000 doors. Speak to a product specialist and get a free quote online today.