Storm doors are a great way to protect your home from bad weather. They also allow you to enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery without letting the bugs in or the cool air out. However, that’s only if your storm door handle works properly. Thankfully, the replacement is an easy DIY job. Follow this simple five-step guide on how to replace storm door handles, and you’ll have a new handle up in as little as 10 minutes.
Prepping to Replace Storm Door Handles
Before starting the project, identify what type of storm door handle you need. There are four common storm door handles on the market. The cost depends on material, finish, and structure, but storm door handles range between $30 and $100 on average.
Mortise handles: Mortise handles use identical lever handles inside and outside of the door panel with a latch bolt and deadbolt on the handle-side edge of the door. They are the most durable type of storm door handle but are also more expensive than other models.
Doorknobs: Knob handles come with various finishes and styles and come with decorative value. However, knob handles may be hard to grasp in the rain. The rotation motion also wears them down faster than other handles.
Lever handles: Lever handles provide an easier grip. But your clothes, shopping bags, and even bracelets can get caught on the lever.
Push-button handles:These are the most common type of storm door handle. The main issue is that the push button tends to get stuck over time.
Most storm door handles are interchangeable, allowing you to switch to a safer, more convenient model or a new handle with more pleasant designs.
Getting Your Measurements Right
Most storm door handles follow the standard 1 3/4-inch hole spacing from the top hole to the bottom. Alternatively, some handles may have three holes spaced 7/8 inch apart. If you’re looking for universal parts, take measurements before heading to the hardware store.
The fail-safe rule is to find replacement parts from the same brand as your storm door to ensure they fit into the holes left behind.
Meanwhile, drilling holes through a storm door frame can be quite challenging, especially if your door frame is made of metal. So, if you can’t find the proper replacement parts, replacing the storm door with a newer model might be best.
How to Install or Replace a Storm Door Handle
Now that you’re ready with your supplies and tools, it’s time to replace your storm door handle using the following five steps.
Remove the Old Handle
Photo: auremar / Adobe Stock
Begin by removing the old handle. Use your screwdriver to remove the screws on the cover plate. Continue to remove the screws connecting the handle hardware to the door and place them in a small container for safekeeping.
Once all the screws are gone, gently pull the cover plate and the interior and exterior handles. You may need to jiggle the pieces loose if the handles are old. Finally, remove the spindle.
Clean Up
Before installing the new handle, clean out any grime, rust, or debris left from removing the old handles. If you have a wooden storm door frame, you may want to sand off any splinters and clean the screw holes.
Put together the exterior handle following the instructions your door handle parts came with, then insert the spindle through the center hole. Slide the interior portion onto the spindle, and make sure both sides are aligned and leveled. Test the handle before putting any screws in to ensure it turns properly.
Fasten the Screws
Photo: Rawpixel.com / Adobe Stock
With every piece in place, fasten the screws with your screwdriver. You can use the screws that came with your replacement door parts or the ones you removed from the old handle if they fit. Ensure the screws are tightly fastened without pressing them into the door frame too much. Gently jiggle the handles. If they feel firm, then the screws are tight enough.
Mount the New Strike Plate
If your old handles had a strike plate, you only need to remove the old strike plate and screw the new one on. However, if you’ve never installed a strike plate, this is the only part where you may need a drill. Mark the top and bottom of the latch with a pencil, place the strike plate, mark the screw positions, and drill 3/32-inch pilot holes. Then, you can fasten the strike plate with screws.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Storm door handle replacement is an easy DIY job that almost anyone can do. On average, each handle takes about 10 minutes to swap out. However, you may consider hiring a local storm door installer if you’re replacing the whole door and don’t want to take on a more complicated project.
If you hire a storm door contractor, you'll pay between $75 and $100 per hour for labor costs, but it may be a better solution for some people. Consider hiring a pro if you’re uncomfortable drilling holes or your new handle uses a more complicated locking mechanism, such as a mortise lock.
Frequently Asked Questions
Storm handles using universal hole spacings are interchangeable regardless of brand and model. However, some older models may require specific hardware. In these cases, we recommend replacing your storm door altogether instead of spending hours looking for a replacement part online. Newer models also tend to be more durable and efficient, so a new storm door could be a worthy investment.
Storm door handle replacement is a simple DIY job you can complete in as little as 10 minutes. But if you prefer to leave it to a pro, you can always do so. Also, it’s best to hire a pro if you're replacing a mortise handle. Mortise handles have a more complicated structure and can be challenging for someone new to home improvement.
Depending on the type of storm door handles you use and the weather conditions in your area, they can last seven to 20 years. Mortise handles are the most durable storm door handles, lasting up to 25 years. Meanwhile, doorknobs only last about seven years on average. Lever handles and push-button handles last about seven to 10 years.
You should replace your storm door handle when you notice it getting stuck, making weird clicking sounds, or not locking properly. A faulty door handle can be a safety concern, especially when it comes to storm doors. Replace your storm door handle if you notice visible rust, damage, or excessive wear and tear.
Build a routine cleaning schedule for your entire storm door to extend your storm door handle’s life span. Mix some mild soap and water, and wipe clean the handle’s surface with a soft cloth. If you have a mortise handle, spray the deadbolt and the latch with a penetrating lubricant. Lock and unlock the door a few times to ensure the lubricant is evenly distributed.
Installing a storm door yourself isn't too complex, especially if you’ve replaced regular doors. Today’s storm doors often use simple, DIY-friendly prehung designs and don’t require much construction knowledge to install. Many also come with the necessary hardware, making the DIY installation even more convenient. On average, installing a prehung storm door takes no more than four hours.
Xiao is a full-time writer giving advice and tips on improving living spaces so it functions as a peaceful sanctuary and an efficient factory. She is visual artist with substantial woodshop experience and isn’t afraid to pick up a circular saw. She is also a volunteer builder for Kansas City’s Habitat of Humanity.
Xiao is a full-time writer giving advice and tips on improving living spaces so it functions as a peaceful sanctuary and an efficient factory. She is visual artist with substantial woodshop experience and isn’t afraid to pick up a circular saw. She is also a volunteer builder for Kansas City’s Habitat of Humanity.
The homeowners guide to Doors
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
