Screen Door Weatherization??

[bncinwv]

I have read where others have used plexiglas and lexan panels to weatherize their screen doors and thought I would offer up my super-cheap alternative that I have used for years. For those who are unaware, the purpose is to allow the outer door to remain open during times of using the air conditioner and heater. This remedy works well and the total cost I incurred was around $5.00. In the fabric (craft) department at Wal-mart they have rolls of clear vinyl that are sold by the yard. I purchase three yards each year ($3.00) and use a screen spline tool ($2.00) as follows:
1)Remove screen door from hinges and lay on a flat surface for easy access.
2)Remove screen splines from each section of screen in sequence.
3)Leave screen in place and cut vinyl to fit each section of the door.
4)Stretch onto screen and secure with screen spline (screen repair tool works great). Trim vinyl as close as possible to screen splines. I use a razor blade type utility knife for this.
5) Replace screen door on hinges.
The end result looks like a glass addition that is easily replaced in the event of tears. One note of caution if you decide on my cheap alternative is to make sure the plastic slide on the screen is open when closing the outer door, or the vinyl will blow out at the corners due to the air pressure between the screen and the outer door. This year at Wal-mart they even had smoke colored vinyl that I may try also.
Bingo

[sreigle]

Excellent idea. I've been trying to figure out where we would store the lexan panels if we went that route. I like your idea a lot. Thanks.

[boylanag]

Thanks, Bingo. I think that I will try that next week.

[bncinwv]

Forgot to mention that their are 3 thicknesses of the vinyl available, I use the medium thickness.

[Steve and Brenda]

Photos might be helpful amigo

[noneck]

Nice...and yes...can you post photos? One looking in and one looking out?

[bncinwv]

Completed new installation last night, will post photos this evening as requested.
Bingo

[Lady RV]

quote:Originally posted by bncinwv

Fellow MOCers:
As requested here are a couple of pictures of the screen door after the vinyl application. View is from inside through the vinyl and outside showing reflection. I have included a picture of the paper backing that identified the type I use. As a reminder, the vinyl cost is around $1.00 a yard. I didn't mention before, but it can be cleaned with windex and a paper towel.


If you decide to go this route, I would suggest doing the small area in the middle of the door first, it gets a little tricky keeping the vinyl taut and wrinkle free (a helping hand may be needed).
Bingo