Bought a Larson storm door only to face problems during installation? If that’s bothering you, we completely understand.
So, what are the most common Larson door installation problems?
Usually, incompatibility of the entry door with the storm door causes problems. The misplacement of the closer is a common issue. Handle malfunction and unhinged screws can also be responsible for this. The solutions to these involve adjusting the closer, tightening screws, and covering screw holes. If your door isn’t fitting properly, try planing it.
These are simply a few fundamental concepts. Please browse through our essay if you want to learn more in-depth. We’ve covered 7 common issues in our article and their solutions. If this interests you, read along for more!
Problems Faced while Installing a Larson Storm Door
Larson Storm Door is very lucrative in the door market. It’s not only attractive to the eye, but it’s also energy-efficient. This door allows natural light in, and also has modern features.
However, there are still a few issues with this door. This ranges from closer speeds to leakage, noises, and collisions.
However, with proper knowledge, these problems can be solved quickly. This article efficiently troubleshoots these problems.
Without further ado, here are the top seven Larson storm door issues:
Problem 1: Faulty Closer Speed
During installation, you are likely to face closer speed problems. It might be too fast or too slow for your liking.
This can be a hassle. We respect your preference, so we have the solution noted below.
Solution
Start by unhooking a closer to adjust the other. Rotate the adjustment screw to your liking. The speed is reduced when rotating clockwise and increased when rotating counterclockwise.
Problem 2: Storm Door Closer Clashing with Entry Door
This is essentially a problem that annoys people. The impact this causes on both doors requires an immediate solution. Luckily the solution isn’t so difficult.
Solution
Initially, try moving the door closer nearer to the storm door. If that doesn’t work, consider shimming your Larson door.
To install a shim on your door, do the following. Loosen the screw from the bottom hinge. Place the wooden part of the shim by the hinge. Tighten the screw and check the alignment of the door.
Problem 3: Storm Door Handle Colliding with Entry Door Handle
As if the storm door closer clashing with the entry door wasn’t enough! We have a similar problem with the Larson storm door handle at hand.
The two doors may collide due to a measurement miscalculation. Between the Larson storm door and the entry door, there should be enough space.
Solution
Ideally, the solution is to ensure a minimum of 2-½ inches between the two doors. If the measurements are below that, re-adjust by reinstalling the doors.
Problem 4: Water Seeping in during Installation
You probably had the misfortune of installing your door during heavy rain. You might notice water seeping in through the door.
Installing storm doors requires putting screws on the existing wooden door frame. This might damage the door frame, causing holes in them. Water can seep in from these holes too.
Solution
These screw holes can be fixed easily with a dowel. Use a dowel that’s the diameter of the hole and cut it accordingly. Coat the dowel with the carpenter’s glue. Allow the glue to cure after tapping the dowel into the holes with a hammer.
Afterward, sand the dry edges. Paint over the patched area. That should be good enough.
Problem 5: Storm Door won’t Close Properly
A sagging door frame obstructs the door from properly closing. This is very similar to a common sliding door problem. This problem can be detected by noticing moving hinges.
Solution
Move the door vertically. Check to see if the frame or trim on the hinge side shifts. If there are gaps, install the shims and tighten the hinges.
If necessary add extra screws to secure the hinges in place. If it’s a frame measurement issue, don’t worry, we’ve covered that in the next part.
Problem 6: Door Frame Expanding
Door frames usually expand due to weather changes. This happens especially in a change to warmer weather. This occurs if the door is close to another heat source.
Solution
This can be solved by planing your door. The space between both the door and the jamb is widened by planning. This makes closing and opening the door a complete breeze.
Problem 7: Frozen Door Locks
Frozen locks are one of the most typical issues with all types of doors. It’s possible that your new Larson door is causing this issue.
The most typical reason for this is that the lock mechanism has been clogged with gunk. Alternatively, rust or misalignment can also lead to this problem.
Solution
If dirt and gunk have accumulated on your lock, try greasing it. Greasing with oil is the most advisable solution to this problem. Oil the hinges often to prevent this from happening in the future.
Precautions
While solving problems faced during or after installation, adhere to these precautions:
- Wear proper safety gear. Wear hand gloves and safety shoe safety goggles at the time of installation.
- Inspect your ladder before using it if needed. It should not be a shaky or wobbly ladder This is a measure taken while solving painting ceiling problems, installing windows as well.
- Learn and use safety techniques to lift heavy materials.
- Keep a medical kit nearby at all times. Unexpected cuts or bruises might occur, it’s always better to be ready.
FAQs
How long does a typical installation take?
An installation takes approximately 1 hour.
Why does my Larson Storm Door closer make popping noises?
The door closer bracket may not be properly fastened to the door. The closer can move sideways if the bracket screws are loose. This causes the popping noise as the door opens or closes. Tighten the screws firmly.
How do I clean the high-performance Low-E glass on my storm door?
Glass cleaners can be used with a soft, lint-free cloth. To avoid streaks, don’t try to dry the surface entirely.
Bottom line
We hope by now you’ve been able to identify some major Larson storm door installation problems. We hope our solutions have been of value to you.
Until then, take good care of yourself, and of course your storm door as well! And remember, if there’s a problem, there’s a solution!