Wooden Screen Doors: What Makes Them Last

• Select a screen door that is made of a wood that will best withstand the full range of exposure in your neck of the woods (humidity, temperature, moisture, and sun).

A popular misconception: “I’m painting my door, so the wood choice isn’t important.” Simply not true. Painting wood does NOT prevent dimensional changes in wood. As humidity varies, so does the moisture content of wood. Yes, painting helps reduce, but does not exclude, moisture exchange. And can painted wood rot? You bet. Just ask anyone with an old house who has torn off rotted pine or poplar gingerbread, balusters or doors. Mahogany has exceptional stability and rot resistance and that is why we have chosen it over other woods for our screen doors. It’s also pretty if you’re not going to paint. If you have any doubts about the importance of wood choice (painted or otherwise) for an exterior door, I encourage you to do some unbiased research of your own before you spend your money.

•  Select a door that is constructed with solid joinery techniques and appropriate proportions for its size. Does it have applied mouldings that could invite moisture problems? If so, can you get a guarantee that the miter joints won’t separate and the mouldings won’t come apart from the stiles and rails? See why we do NOT use applied mouldings on our screen doors

• Select a reasonable finish for your exposure. Things to consider when selecting a screen door finish

• Select a combination screen and storm door that has the most reliable method of retaining (and removing) the screen and storm inserts. Can any part of it break or fail? If it does, can it be replaced or fixed? What will it cost?

• Select a style that is practical for your lifestyle and application.

• Select the right complement of screen door hardware. Can you be sure your choice is compatible with your door? Can you get assistance with hardware installation and troubleshooting questions?

• Store it and install it properly.

• Maintain it properly.

Our Commitment to Build a Quality Screen Door