Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
I live in an old house that I purchased because it was inexpensive, but some original elements, like the molding and wood work are appealing to me.
The front screen door is just cheap. Lately I used a crow bar to get it open (it was stuck) and so it is now bent out of shape with the screen ripped.
The front door is a nice element. It is clearly original, thick, beautiful wood, with pretty carvings, etc.
I want to remove the screen door and leave it off. The front door is under a big front porch, so no rain or wind. It has two expensive locks. It is thick. The screen door gave little security in comparison. (I never locked it, I don't know anyone who does.) I don't know why I need it.
So I asked a few neighbor fellows if the obvious way to remove it (remove the screws and pull it off) is workable, or is there some hidden complication, and to a man they said: no, no, no, you need a screen door.
One offered to help me install a new one, so I have that. But I wasn't asking for that and I would want to pay him.
I think they are worried about a woman living alone? (This is a safe neighborhood.)
so--
Do I need a screen door?
and---
Is the obvious way to remove it (remove the screws and pull it off) workable, or is there some hidden complication?
The only benefit to a screen door is keeping the bugs out if you leave the main door open, and possibly some ventilation. It offers nothing in the way of security.
How you remove it depends on the door, but it could be as simple as removing hinge pins. Otherwise remove the screws from the hinges or from the frame. Regardless it's a pretty simple job.
Do you dislike bugs in your house?
Do you like to get fresh air in the house?
You “may” want a screen door…
If you keep doors and windows closed pretty much all the time- to not only keep bugs out, but to also maintain a comfortable temp inside- I see no need for a screen door.
The only benefit to a screen door is keeping the bugs out if you leave the main door open, and possibly some ventilation. It offers nothing in the way of security.
How you remove it depends on the door, but it could be as simple as removing hinge pins. Otherwise remove the screws from the hinges or from the frame. Regardless it's a pretty simple job.
If by "screen door" you also mean one that no only has a screen but also a solid storm panel, typically glass, that can cover the screen opening I would answer with a resounding YES.
The closed opening will protect the main door from the weather and especially rain, which can destroy it.
If by "screen door" you also mean one that no only has a screen but also a solid storm panel, typically glass, that can cover the screen opening I would answer with a resounding YES.
The closed opening will protect the main door from the weather and especially rain, which can destroy it.
I think you missed the part where the OP said there's a large porch overhang so no wind or rain. There was also no mention of a storm panel, and from the description it sounds like that's not the case. You're answering a completely different question.
I got rid of screen doors decades ago. I think they cheapen the look of a house. Especially if you have a nice looking and serviceable door, I say get rid of the eyesore.
Live with the door as it is for a few months and decide whether you want to replace it. If you have air conditioning, you may not want to.
I live in a little rancher and changed out a rickety screen door for a glass door with a roll down screen (comes halfway down the door). We still have the storm door to close tight in winter.
I LOVE it. It lets light into the little living room in the summer and I leave the screen down (but the door locked) at night for the cool air.
I think you missed the part where the OP said there's a large porch overhang so no wind or rain. There was also no mention of a storm panel, and from the description it sounds like that's not the case. You're answering a completely different question.
You're right, I did miss it. But, houses of a certain style need a storm door to look "right".
I also have a deep porch, although it's enclosed so it's usable three seasons with the windows open (or closed) and if those weren't there the porch, and main door, would be battered by weather year round. My storm door is actually on the porch entry (both front and back, wraparound porch).
Screen doors let light and ventilation in and keep bugs out. Do you have screens on your windows? If not you don't need one on the door. If you do then you need to decide whether you want the door open for ventilation or not.
I never considered screen doors as a security issue except to remind neighborhood kids that they needed to knock when coming to visit my kids.
Please register to post and access all features of our very popular forum. It is free and quick. Over $68,000 in prizes has already been given out to active posters on our forum. Additional giveaways are planned.
Detailed information about all U.S. cities, counties, and zip codes on our site: City-data.com.
Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
