How to Fix a Gap Between a Storm Door and Frame to Seal Your Home

Your storm door helps protect your home from the elements outside, but if it starts to sag or slump, it can quickly turn into a frustrating problem. The good news: Learning how to fix a gap between a storm door and frame is easy and doesn’t usually require professional help. However, there are a number of issues that can create gaps around your storm door, and the best solution will depend on what’s causing the problem. Keep reading to learn how to fix gaps between a storm door and frame.

Why Should You Fix Gaps Around Your Storm Door?

If you have a gap between your storm door and frame, it’s more than just an aesthetic issue. Leaky storm doors can let in wind, snow, and rain, making your home draftier and less energy efficient while also upping your risk for moisture-related problems. On top of that, gaps are the perfect place for pests and critters to sneak into your home.

For these reasons, it’s best to fix any storm door problems as soon as possible.

How to Prep for Fixing Your Storm Door

Before we explain how to adjust a storm door, there are a couple of things to know. Importantly, there are many types of storm doors, which come in different materials and styles. As a result, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to fixing a gap in your door, so you may have to try a few different techniques to find the one that works.

If you’re still having problems with your storm door, consider hiring a pro to take a look at it. They can explain what’s causing the issue and let you know if it’s time for a new door. If so, you can check out our guide on how to install a storm door and decide if it’s a project you want to tackle yourself.

How to Fix Storm Door Gaps

Photo: sankai / E+ / Getty Images

Now that you know why it’s important to patch up any gaps between your storm door and frame, let’s walk through how to do it. Here are four strategies to try.

Tighten Loose Screws (or Replace Them)

Sometimes, fixing a sagging storm door is as simple as tightening a few screws. Check the frame and hinges for loose screws and use your screwdriver to tighten them until they’re secure—but don’t overdo it; otherwise, you could damage your door.

Another option: Replace the old screws in your hinges with new ones. Choosing screws that are a little bit bigger than your current ones will help make your hinges more secure.

Add New Weatherstripping

If there’s still a gap on the top or sides of your storm door after adjusting the screws, check your weatherstripping for gaps, tears, and dents. If you notice any damage, it may be time to replace the weatherstripping.

Start by removing the old weatherstripping, either with a putty knife (if it’s the peel-and-stick kind) or by removing the screws and nails that hold it to the door. Wipe down the area with a soapy sponge, then dry it with a clean rag.

Next, measure the vertical jambs and the horizontal jamb at the top of your door and cut three pieces of weatherstripping for each area. Finally, peel off the adhesive backing and press the weatherstripping into the door jambs. You can also secure it with small nails for extra security.

Replace or Install a Door Sweep

Door sweeps are another type of weatherstripping that goes on the bottom of your door, so they’re useful if you have a gap there. Installation instructions vary based on the type of sweep that you buy, but no matter which kind you choose, start by measuring your door’s bottom edge and, if needed, cut the door sweep to match the dimensions.

Some sweeps slide onto the bottom of your door, with one edge of the sweep on each side of your door. There are also other door sweeps that attach to one side of your door using screws or adhesive. Check your product’s packaging for specific installation instructions.

Add Shims

If your storm door has gaps because it isn’t square or plumb, you can use shims to try and fix the problem. Shims are small pieces of wood, metal, cardboard, or plastic that you can place behind your door’s hinges or between the door and frame to make everything level. 

To add shims behind the hinges, begin by unscrewing them, cleaning the area with a damp rag, and placing a shim in the empty space. If the shim is too big, you may need to snap or cut it to fit. Then, put the hinge on top of the shim and screw it back into place. If you aren’t comfortable with learning how to shim a storm door yourself, you can hire a local storm door installer to do it for you.

How to Prevent Gaps Between a Storm Door and Frame

Preventing gaps between your storm door and frame isn’t always possible. Your storm door has the important task of protecting your front door from the elements and keeping wind and pests out. Because of this, natural wear and tear is bound to happen, so it’s not uncommon for a storm door to shift and sag over time, creating gaps.

The best way to keep your storm door looking and functioning like new is to ensure the installation is precise and secure. Don’t put in a storm door by yourself unless you’re certain you can do it properly. A pro can make sure your door is faultless after installation. You’ll also want to inspect your door’s hardware as often as you can to ensure everything is in working order (not loose or rusty) so that you’ll be able to repair the door before any small issues turn into big ones. 

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Even if you aren’t super handy, each of these storm door fixes is fairly straightforward. Plus, depending on which methods you use, you can complete this project for less than $100.

But what happens if you’ve tried all of these techniques and still have a gap in your door? Or if you just don’t have time to troubleshoot the problem yourself? In those cases, it’s best to call in a pro. Repairing a storm door costs between $120 and $350. If you need a new storm door, you can expect to pay $75 to $800 for a replacement.