Hey everyone -- I am new to this board and am looking for some advice:

I want to install a screen door to my porch. I went to Lowes and purchased one that fits the dimensions of my door frame. Unfortunately my building is somewhat old and I think the frame has shifted a bit, so my door does NOT fit in. So I need a way to shave a few millimeters from my current door frame. What tool should I use, or is there something else I could do?

Thanks for any help

- Jay

 

Before you go modifying the door frame...which door did you buy...and what are the measurements between the brickmold at top, middle, and bottom.

There's normally plenty of adjustment available on most storm/screen doors.

 

This is what I have:
Shop Screen Tight Southport 36-in White Vinyl Screen Door at Lowes.com

I am not home, so I don't know the measurements. But I only need a few millimeters and there is plenty of brickmold.

 

Likewise, welcome to the forums! Before you go cutting on this door, I have to share an experience with it. I am not bashing the door, nor Lowes, but you may not be completely satisfied with a vinyl screen door. The ones I have installed for clients become flimsy in daytime heating and sometimes just don't close properly. With that said, and if you don't have the direct sunlight problem, let us know the measurements Vic asked for when you can and we'll figure out a way for you to modify it. Generally, if there is only a little to be taken off to fudge it in, a block plane or even sandpaper will work. I would not take a saw to it, as that may be too much.

 

Ahh I thought it might be a vinyl or wood door. You'd be better off trimming the screen door to fit the existing opening. Since they are solid PVC you could easily use a saw or router with a guide to take a bit off the latch side. I'd leave as much as possible on the hinge side.

You could also use a sander with a coarse grit (80 with the sander then maybe 150 by hand to smooth it off) but you'd need to keep a guide of some sort and keep the sander at a good 90 degree angle. If you mean just an 1/8" or so (I think better in inches)...I'd probably use a sander.

Trying to take such a small amount off the brickmold will be very problematic. A plane or power tool won't get in the corners.

I'd mount the door...scribe the latch side and use whatever you choose to make it fit.