How to Install a Crawl Space Access Door

A crawl space in the home can be a dangerous area for small children and pets, but a crawl space access door can seal the area off. You could hire a professional to come in and install such a door at great expense to you, or you could make and install one yourself. A crawl space access door is simpler to create and add then a regular door for your home. This article will show you how to make and install your own crawl space access door.

Step 1 - Measure the Space

The hardest part of this project is creating a door that fits perfectly. You can't succeed by eye because a crawl space, if inside the home, can warp over time. You may have a crawl space, either in the basement or on the outside, that is a rough area. If so, you will still create a rectangular door, but you will make it slightly larger than the opening you are covering.

Use the tape measure and take down the length and width of the space you wish to cover. If there is an actual frame, measure from the inside of the frame.

Step 2 - Cut and Finish the Crawl Space Access Door

A sheet of plywood can yield several doors. Take the measurements that you recorded in Step 1 and transfer them to the plywood with a pencil. Use the saw to cut out the piece of wood along the lines you drew.

Use the sandpaper to sand down any rough edges to avoid splinters. You can then finish the door with your choice of paint or stain. If the door will be exposed to the elements, you can waterproof it. You can also leave it bare if you wish.

Step 3 - Attach the Hinges and Latch to the Crawl Space Access Door

The door needs to be able to do two things: swing open and lock shut. The hinges allow the door to easily open and close, while the latch keeps the door in place. A padlock allows you to lock the door for added safety and security.

Many latches contain a small hole where you can attach a padlock. But if you can't find one of those, you can get a simple D-latch system like you would see on a trunk. Screw the hinges in place on one end of the door. Make sure the hinge faces out. Attach one piece of the latch to the other end of the door. Place it in the center as much as possible.

Step 4 - Attach the Crawl Space Access Door to the Frame

Fit the door to the crawl space area and make marks where the hinges and latch are. Use the screwdriver to make a guide hole. Line the crawl space access door up to the guide holes and screw them each in place. Close the door, latch and padlock.