Security doors add an extra layer of security to your home.
Security doors consist of wrought iron or steel formed into standard bars, or intricate patterns and designs. These doors fit within the brick mold around your existing entrance door, adding extra security and protection for your home. In time, poor installation or frequent use impacts the performance of your security door. Fortunately, many common problems require only simple adjustments. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Doors That Won't Stay Closed or Latch
1. Remove the screws from the door hinges, as a friend holds the door in place so it can't fall once the screws come out.
2. Insert a thin wooden shim into the space between the hinge and the door frame or brick molding. Reinstall the hinges, allowing the nails or screws to pass through the shims, and secure them in place.
3. Test the door to see if it latches.
4. If it still doesn't latch, unscrew the strike plate on the edge of the door frame.
5. Slide a wooden shim behind the strike, then screw it back in place.
6. Test the door once more. If it still doesn't latch, replace the lock or handle mechanism completely to remedy the problem.
Doors That Scrape Against the Strike or Frame
7. Tighten all screws in the hinges to ensure they are secure. Open and close the door to test it.
8. If there is still scraping, inspect the strike plate and replace or tighten any loose or missing screws. Test the door again.
9. Remove the strike plate from the edge of the frame. Use a chisel and hammer to cut away a thin layer of wood. Keep the layer of wood uniform as you remove it to keep the strike plate at an even level. Replace the strike plate and test the door again.
Adjust the Closer
10. Open your security door and allow it to close on its own. Watch how quickly the door closes and determine whether it closes completely.
11. Inspect the end of the closer and find the adjustment screw.
12. Turn this screw clockwise to help the door close and latch more quickly.
13. Adjust this screw counter-clockwise to slow the door's closing, making it latch less forcefully.
Tags: strike plate, Test door, your security door, doesn latch, door again
