How to Measure for a Wooden Screen Door

There is more to measuring for a wooden screen door than just measuring the width and height of the doorjamb. You will need to take other things into consideration whether you are installing into a preexisting jamb or for a pre-hung door. To be sure that the new door will fit properly you have to take accurate measurements.

Measuring for a Pre-Hung Wooden Screen Door

1. Use a tape measure to measure the openings at the top and bottom. When measuring the top, start at the outside edges of the molding and measure across to the other side to the outside edges of the molding. Now measure the bottom in the same manner.

2. Measure from the top left hand corner down to the bottom. Start at the outer edge of the molding down to the outside edge of the molding at the bottom. Measure from the right hand corner down to the outside edge of the molding at the bottom.

3. Write the measurements on a piece of paper.

Measuring for an Existing Door Jamb

1. Use a tape measure to measure top opening. You should take measurements between the inside edges. Write down the measurements.

2. Measure the thickness of the casing around the exterior where the wood screen door will mount. Write down the measurements.

3. Measure the area between the rear of the exterior casing and the exterior door. This will allow room for the handles.

4. Start at the upper left corner at the top of the casing and measure down to the slab at the bottom of the doorjamb. Repeat this in the upper right corner. Write down all measurements.