Measuring a screen door accurately is crucial to ensure a perfect fit and optimal function. Whether you’re replacing an old screen door or installing a new one, precise measurements are essential for a successful installation.
To begin the measuring process, gather the necessary tools: a tape measure, a pencil, and a notepad to record your measurements. Determine the location where you intend to install the screen door. Measure the width of the doorway opening from the inside edge of one jamb to the inside edge of the other. Note this measurement as the “doorway width.”
Next, measure the height of the doorway opening from the threshold to the top of the header. Record this measurement as the “doorway height.” Additionally, measure the thickness of the door jambs at the top, middle, and bottom to account for any variations. These measurements will ensure that the screen door fits snugly within the doorway opening and functions properly.
Determining Screen Size Based on Frame Measurements
Accurate measurements are key to ensuring a perfect fit for your screen door. To measure the screen size based on the frame measurements, follow these steps:
- Determine the Width: Measure the width of the door frame from the inside edges of the door jambs. Take three measurements: at the top, middle, and bottom. Record the widest of these measurements as the width of the screen.
- Determine the Height: Measure the height of the door frame from the top edge of the threshold to the underside of the door header. Again, take three measurements: at the left, center, and right edges. Note the tallest of these measurements as the height of the screen.
- Add Threshold Gap (Optional): If you wish to have a small gap between the screen and the threshold to allow for drainage or ventilation, deduct 1/4 inch from the height measurement.
Once you have measured the width and height of the frame, the screen size can be calculated using the following formula:
| Width of Screen = | Width of Frame + 1/4 inch (for overlap) |
| Height of Screen = | Height of Frame + (1/4 inch × 2) (for overlap) |
Measuring Screen Width and Height
Measuring the width and height of a screen door is a crucial step in ensuring a perfect fit when replacing or installing a new screen. Follow these detailed instructions to accurately determine the dimensions of your screen door.
Measuring Screen Width
1. Position the measuring tape horizontally across the top of the screen door frame.
2. Extend the tape measure from the inside edge of the frame on one side to the inside edge on the opposite side.
3. Note the measurement in inches to the nearest 1/16th of an inch.
Measuring Screen Height
1. Position the measuring tape vertically along the side of the screen door frame.
2. Start at the inside edge of the frame at the top of the door and extend the tape down to the inside edge at the bottom of the door.
(Tip: If the screen door is hinged, open it inward to provide better access for measuring.)
3. Note the measurement in inches to the nearest 1/16th of an inch.
Example Measurements
The following table provides an example of how to record your measurements:
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Screen Width | 36 1/16″ |
| Screen Height | 80 1/8″ |
Note: Always double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy.
Using a Flexible Measuring Tape for Accurate Results
Step 1: Choose the Correct Measuring Tape
Opt for a flexible measuring tape that can conform to the curves and contours of the screen door accurately. Avoid using rigid measuring tapes, as they may not provide an accurate reading.
Step 2: Measure Width
- For a single-door screen door, measure the distance between the inside edges of the stiles (vertical frame members).
- For a double-door screen door, measure the width of each door separately and then add them together.
- Ensure the measuring tape is held straight and parallel to the bottom rail of the door.
Step 3: Measure Height
- Measure the distance from the bottom rail to the top of the screen door frame.
- Start the measurement at the bottom of the weatherstripping (if present) and extend it to the top of the frame’s outer edge.
- Take measurements at multiple points to account for any variances in the height of the door. Record the shortest measurement as the height.
Step 4: Consider Overhang and Threshold Clearance
When providing the measurements to a screen door supplier, consider the following additions:
| Measurement | Additional Allowance |
|---|---|
| Width | 1/8″ to 1/4″ overhang on each side |
| Height | 3/4″ to 1″ for threshold clearance |
These allowances ensure a proper fit and adequate clearance for smooth operation of the door.
Measuring for Replacement Screen
When measuring for a replacement screen, it is important to be accurate in order to ensure a proper fit. Here are the steps on how to measure for a replacement screen:
1. Determine the type of screen you need. There are two main types of screens: roll-up screens and stationary screens. Roll-up screens are mounted on a spring-loaded roller and can be rolled up when not in use. Stationary screens are permanently attached to the door frame.
2. Measure the height and width of the opening. Use a tape measure to measure the height and width of the opening where the screen will be installed. Measure from the inside edge of the frame to the inside edge of the frame on the opposite side. Be sure to measure the height and width at the top, middle, and bottom of the opening to ensure that the screen is square.
3. Deduct 1/4 inch from the height and width measurements. This will allow for a snug fit when the screen is installed.
4. For roll-up screens, measure the length of the track or channel. This is the distance from the top of the opening to the bottom of the opening, minus 1/4 inch. The length of the track or channel is important because it determines the length of the screen material that will be needed.
| Measurement | How to Measure |
|---|---|
| Height | Measure from the inside edge of the frame to the inside edge of the frame on the opposite side, at the top, middle, and bottom of the opening. Deduct 1/4 inch from the measurement. |
| Width | Measure from the inside edge of the frame to the inside edge of the frame on the opposite side, at the top, middle, and bottom of the opening. Deduct 1/4 inch from the measurement. |
| Length of track or channel (for roll-up screens only) | Measure from the top of the opening to the bottom of the opening, minus 1/4 inch. |
5. Once you have all of the measurements, you can order a replacement screen that is the correct size for your opening.
Accounting for Screen Overlap
When you’re measuring for a new screen door, you need to account for the overlap of the screen material on the frame. This overlap is necessary to ensure that the screen is held in place securely and that there are no gaps for insects to get through.
The amount of overlap will vary depending on the type of screen door you’re installing. For most standard screen doors, the overlap is about 1/2 inch all around. However, some doors may require more or less overlap, so it’s important to check the manufacturer’s instructions before you start measuring.
To account for the overlap, you’ll need to add the width of the overlap to the height and width of the door opening. For example, if you have a door opening that is 3 feet wide by 6 feet tall and you want to install a screen door with a 1/2-inch overlap, you would need to measure the door opening as 3 feet 1 inch wide by 6 feet 1 inch tall.
| Measuring for a Screen Door with Overlap | ||
|---|---|---|
| Door Opening Width | + Overlap Width | = Screen Door Width |
| Door Opening Height | + Overlap Height | = Screen Door Height |
Once you have measured the door opening with the overlap, you can use those measurements to order or purchase a new screen door.
Calculating Roll Screen Quantity Needed
To calculate the quantity of roll screen needed, follow these steps:
1. Measure the Width of the Opening
Using a measuring tape, measure the total width of the door opening. This measurement should include any jambs or frames.
2. Measure the Height of the Opening
Measure the total height of the door opening. If the door has a transom window, measure from the top of the transom to the bottom of the threshold.
3. Calculate the Area of the Opening
Multiply the width by the height to get the area of the opening in square feet.
4. Determine the Roll Screen Factor
Refer to the table below to determine the roll screen factor for the type of roll screen you will be using:
| Roll Screen Type | Factor |
|---|---|
| 5-foot Roll | 1.75 |
| 6-foot Roll | 2.00 |
| 8-foot Roll | 2.25 |
5. Multiply the Area by the Factor
Multiply the area of the opening by the roll screen factor to get the total quantity of roll screen needed in linear feet.
6. Round Up to the Nearest Roll
Roll screen is typically sold in rolls of 100 linear feet. Round the total quantity needed up to the nearest 100-foot roll to determine the number of rolls required.
Measuring Diagonal for Custom Screen Doors
Step 1: Prepare the door frame
Locate the door frame on the hinges side of the door, which is usually the inside.
Step 2: Measure the height
With a measuring tape, measure the distance from the top to the bottom of the door frame.
Step 3: Measure the width
Measure the distance from the left to the right side of the door frame, inside the door stop.
Step 4: Combine the measurements
Add the height and width measurements, writing them down as separate numbers.
Step 5: Calculate the diagonal
Use the Pythagorean theorem (a² + b² = c²) to calculate the diagonal measurement. For example, if the height is 80 inches and the width is 36 inches, the diagonal would be calculated as √(80² + 36²) = 88.4 inches.
Step 6: Round up the measurement
Round up the diagonal measurement to the nearest whole inch. In this example, the diagonal would be rounded up to 89 inches.
Step 7: Table of Diagonal Measurements
Here is a table of common door sizes and their corresponding diagonal measurements:
| Door Size (Height x Width) | Diagonal Measurement |
|---|---|
| 80″ x 36″ | 89″ |
| 80″ x 42″ | 91″ |
| 80″ x 48″ | 93″ |
| 80″ x 60″ | 100″ |
| 96″ x 36″ | 99″ |
| 96″ x 42″ | 101″ |
| 96″ x 48″ | 103″ |
| 96″ x 60″ | 109″ |
Considering Screen Spline Width
Determining the appropriate screen spline width is crucial for a secure and durable screen installation. Different screen fabrics require specific spline sizes to ensure proper attachment and tension. The table below provides guidelines for selecting the correct spline width based on the fabric type and thickness:
| Fabric Type | Spline Diameter |
|---|---|
| Standard Aluminum Mesh | 0.140" |
| Heavy-Duty Aluminum Mesh | 0.150" |
| Fiberglass Mesh | 0.125" |
| Pet-Resistant Mesh | 0.175" |
| Solar Mesh | 0.135" |
Measuring the Screen Door Frame
To determine the necessary screen door material, measure the width, height, and diagonal of the frame. The diagonal measurement ensures that the screen is square, eliminating any gaps or distortions. Subtract 1/2 inch from the width and height, and 3/4 inch from the diagonal to account for the screen spline and installation tolerances. The resulting measurements represent the actual screen door size.
Subtracting for the Screen Splines
After measuring the frame, deduct the necessary amount for the screen splines. The amount to subtract depends on the spline size you choose. For example, if using a 0.140" spline, subtract 0.140" x 4 (for the four sides) = 0.560" from the width and height.
Determining Final Screen Size
The final screen door size is obtained by subtracting the calculated amounts from the original frame measurements. For example, if the original frame measures 36" x 84", and you are using a 0.140" spline, the final screen door size would be:
Width: 36" – 0.560" = 35.44"
Height: 84" – 0.560" = 83.44"
Avoiding Common Measurement Errors
To ensure accurate measurements, it’s crucial to avoid common errors. Here are some tips:
1. Measure the Outer Frame
Measure the entire frame, including the molding, to ensure the screen fits properly.
2. Don’t Include the Hinge Side
Exclude the hinge side from your measurement to avoid a misfit screen.
3. Measure the Bottom Rail Vertically
When measuring the bottom rail, hold the tape measure vertically to ensure an accurate result.
4. Avoid Obstacles
Clear any obstacles, such as locks or handles, that may interfere with the measurement.
5. Double-Check Your Measurements
Measure the door twice to confirm the accuracy of your findings.
6. Use a Sturdy Tape Measure
Employ a reliable tape measure that won’t stretch or distort.
7. Align the Tape Measure Correctly
Ensure the tape measure is parallel to the edge of the door for precise measurements.
8. Note Any Irregularities
Observe if the door has any irregularities, such as curves or angles, that may require special consideration.
9. Take Multiple Measurements for Accuracy
To achieve maximum accuracy, take multiple measurements at different points along the door. Compare these measurements to calculate an average, which will provide the most precise result.
| Measurement Point | Number of Measurements |
|---|---|
| Top rail | 3 |
| Left and right stiles | 2 |
| Bottom rail | 2 |
Ensuring Precise Fit and Functionality
1. Measure the Doorway Opening
Begin by measuring the height and width of the doorway opening. For optimal functionality, aim for a screen door that is slightly smaller (about 1/8-inch) to ensure a snug fit.
2. Determine the Swing Direction
Decide which side the door will swing towards, whether inwards or outwards. This will impact the hardware you need.
3. Mark the Hinges
After determining the swing direction, mark the locations where the hinges will be installed on both the door frame and the screen door.
4. Attach the Hinges
Attach the hinges to the marked locations using screws.
5. Install the Latch
Install the latch mechanism on the screen door and the door frame for secure closure.
6. Check the Fit
Once the latch is installed, close the screen door and check for any gaps or misalignments. Adjust the hinges or latch as needed.
7. Install the Screen
Stretch the screen material over the frame and secure it with spline or track.
8. Trim the Excess Screen
Trim any excess screen material around the edges using a utility knife.
9. Inspect and Test
Inspect the finished screen door for any damage or loose parts. Test the operation of the door to ensure it opens and closes smoothly.
10. Fine-tuning the Fit
To ensure a perfect fit, follow these additional steps:
- Inspect the Door Jamb: Check for any irregularities or obstructions that may affect the fit.
- Adjust the Strike Plate: Move the strike plate slightly if the latch doesn’t engage properly.
- Shimming: Insert thin shims between the door frame and the screen door to create a snug fit, if necessary.
- Sanding the Bottom: Sand the bottom edge of the screen door slightly to remove any excess material that may impede opening or closing.
- Reinstall the Door: Reinstall the door after making any adjustments and check the fit again.
How to Measure a Screen Door
Measuring a screen door is a simple process that can be done in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can ensure that you order the correct size screen door for your home.
- Measure the width of the door frame. To do this, measure the distance between the inside edges of the door frame, from side to side.
- Measure the height of the door frame. To do this, measure the distance between the top of the door frame and the bottom of the door frame, from top to bottom.
- Add 1 inch to the width and height measurements. This will give you the overall size of the screen door that you need to order.
People Also Ask
How do I know what size screen door to buy?
To determine the correct size screen door to buy, you need to measure the width and height of the door frame. Once you have these measurements, add 1 inch to each measurement to get the overall size of the screen door that you need.
What is the standard size of a screen door?
The standard size of a screen door is 36 inches wide by 80 inches high. However, screen doors can be made in custom sizes to fit any door frame.
Can I install a screen door myself?
Yes, you can install a screen door yourself. However, if you are not comfortable working with tools, it is best to hire a professional to install the screen door for you.
