Open-and-shut advice: Screen doors get a workout. They’re tugged, yanked, flung open, forced shut, kicked around and generally treated pretty roughly. And come summertime, they work overtime with the kids running in and out of the house.
So it’s no wonder your screen door has started squeaking, slams shut and doesn’t close properly. Lou Manfredini, national home-improvement expert from Ace Hardware, offers several troubleshooting tips:
– Check the hinges. Add a drop of 3-in-1 oil or WD-40 to stop the squeaking. If you see rust, remove the pin, clean, then lubricate before reinserting the pin.
– Check the weather-stripping. If it’s torn or worn out, replace.
– Check the shaft on the spring closure. If the door closes too slowly or quickly, adjust the tension. And add a few drops of oil. If all fails, replace the closer.
– Check and care for your screen. If torn or stretched, pick up a screen repair kit.
For more suggestions or tips, visit www.acehardware.com.
