The installation of a Larson storm door requires careful attention to detail to ensure proper function and weather sealing. This article details the installation procedure based on available documentation, covering preparation, component identification, and the sequential steps for a successful installation. The documentation focuses on verifying door jamb conditions, assembling components, and securing the door frame and associated hardware.
Preparing the Door Jamb
Prior to commencing installation, the door jamb must be assessed for plumb and square. The documentation specifies using a level to verify the jamb surface is plumb. Additionally, a framing square should be used to confirm that the jamb corners are square to each other. If the jamb is out of square by 1/8-inch or less, the variance should be noted and adjustments made to the storm door rail placement accordingly. A minimum mounting space of 1 inch deep and 1 inch wide at the perimeter of the door jamb is required for installation. If the storm door frame is to be mounted on top of existing exterior trim, it is crucial to ensure that the trim is securely fastened to the jamb.
Identifying Door Components
A Larson storm door assembly includes several key components. These consist of the storm door itself, a top rail, a latch rail, and a hinge rail. A door extender, intended for attachment to the door, is also included, along with a door sweep gasket and two rail extenders labeled “L” (left) and “R” (right). Familiarization with these components is essential before beginning the installation process.
Door Assembly and Extender Installation
The initial steps involve preparing the door itself. The documentation instructs resting the storm door on sawhorses with the interior side facing upward. The door extender is then removed from the bottom of the door. A rubber drip gasket is slid into the channel slot located in the bottom of the door extender. The gasket should be positioned evenly on one end, and the other end trimmed flush using a utility knife. To secure the gasket, each end of the channel is crimped using a pair of pliers.
Following gasket installation, the door extender is slid onto the door until both ends are flush with the door edges. The door is then closed, and the extender is pushed downward until the rubber sweep gasket rests on the door’s threshold.
Hinge Rail Attachment
Attaching the hinge rail is a critical step in the installation process. The documentation specifies locating the second screw from the top of the door on the side designated for the hinges and removing this screw. The storm door hinge rail is then aligned beside the storm door. The premounted jamb hinges are secured to the door using the provided screws. The attachment process begins with the top hinge, aligning the hinge hole with the screw hole created by the removed screw.
A 1/8-inch drill bit is used to bore each of the remaining screw holes at each hinge location. Two #8 screws are then installed at each hinge. A total of four hinges are secured in this manner. The top of the rail will extend approximately 1/8-inch above the top of the door. Prior to screw installation, an awl or center punch is tapped into each marked screw hole using a hammer. This facilitates screw insertion and prevents wood splitting. The panhead screws are then inserted into each hole, leaving approximately 1/8-inch of the screw head exposed above the jamb surface.
Installing the Top Drip Cap
The top drip cap is installed to the top of the door opening, overlapping both ends over the storm door rails. The bottom edge of the drip cap should be flush with the storm door’s top rail. The drip cap is secured using the provided #8 screws.
Handle and Latch Installation
The storm door handle and latch are installed following the manufacturer’s specific directions. After installation, the door is closed to verify that the latch engages the rail bar, securing the door closed. The lock lever is then shifted to ensure it moves freely. Adjustments are made as needed, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Final Verification
The documentation emphasizes the importance of verifying proper operation after installation. This includes confirming that the latch securely engages the rail bar and that the lock lever functions smoothly. Any necessary adjustments should be made to ensure optimal performance.
Conclusion
The installation of a Larson storm door involves a series of precise steps, beginning with jamb preparation and component identification, and culminating in hardware installation and functional verification. Adhering to the outlined procedure, as detailed in the provided documentation, is essential for a successful and long-lasting installation. Proper attention to detail, particularly regarding jamb squareness and hinge alignment, will contribute to the door’s effective weather sealing and operational reliability.
Sources
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