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How to repair sweep on external screen door?

Innov8tive

I just need to reattach my external front door screen door as it fell off. The sweep at the bottom has detached itself part of the way. I am wondering if I am able to reattach it or do I need to replace it altogether? It is not a hard plastic sweep, it is that soft carpet like material right at the bottom of the screen door. I also have misplaced the screws so I am wondering what screws I would need to get to replace it? Thank you.

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MitchellMc

Hi @Innov8tive,

Would it be possible to share a few photos of the bottom of the screen door, including the section where the sweep has detached and where it was originally screwed in place?

There are several different types of door sweeps and fixing methods, so without seeing how yours is attached, it’s difficult to determine whether it can simply be reattached or needs replacing, and what type and size of screws would be suitable.

Once we can see what you’re working with, we should be able to provide some more specific advice.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

Innov8tive

@MitchellMc

The door is currently sitting behind many things in the garage, I will get some photos of it when I have got it out. Thank you

Innov8tive

@MitchellMc

I got some photos of the sweep that needs fixing on the screen door. Unsure if it needs a full replacement sweep or if it can go back on? If you look at the material bit at the bottom of the door, that was almost off and a slid it back on but the end of it is twisted and coming off.

I also took a photo of the door frame. Would I need to take those rivets out and install new rivets upon re attaching the door? I also bought some new screws as the ones that are currently within the hinges on the frame are bent and in poor condition.

EricL

Hello @Innov8tive

It appears that your external screen door has two seals attached to it. The first one looks like a Moroday Silver Screw On Door Seal. There is a soft fluffy cloth version, but the store only carries the one with plastic bristles on it. The secondary seal is similar to the Moroday 915 x 60mm Auto Hinge Silver Door Seal. This is an automatic seal that activates when the door is closed. I suggest looking carefully how the seals were installed on your door so that you don't accidentally install the seals in reverse.

In regard to the screws and rivets, just double check the sizes to make sure that you've got the correct ones or the next size up to make sure you get a snug fit. I would also recommend removing one of the hinges and bringing it with you to the store so that you get the correct size so that it fits on the frame and the door itself. Please keep your docket just in case you need to swap them over for another model. Please keep in mind that you will be installing onto a steel door frame and an aluminium door, ordinary timber screws will not work on these materials. Read the screw packets carefully before you purchase a set.

Let me call on our experienced members @TedBear, @JoeAzza, @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

Innov8tive

Hello @EricL

I am a bit confused by the seals in your reply. You have given me two different seals, yet I can only attach one. Are you saying I can use either one?

As for installing them on in reverse, can you clarify what you mean?

With regard to the rivets, do I actually need to pop the old rivets out and put in new ones. If so, I am assuming I would need a rivet gun.

I bought some screws from bunnings today after telling a team member I am basically re attaching a screen door that came off. He recommended zenith external timber 8 -10 40 mm screws which I purchased. I assume from what you say these are not going to be suitable.

To clarify, this is a door that has come off and I am simply reattaching it. At this point, I do not have the option of coming to bunnings with the actual hinge so I am hoping to skip that part and be able to re attach it anyhow with the new seal needed.

I honestly thought it was as simple as purchasing the new seal with screws, attaching ti according to directions, hanging the door and screwing the hinges back into place. Since they are already there in place where the hinges line up, I felt it was quite a simple fix.

I also have an acquired brain injury so it is sometimes hard for me to understand what someone is actually saying if the instructions are not clear.

Cheers.

EricL

Hello @Innov8tive

Your external door currently has one seal attached to it. It appears to be the Moroday Silver Screw On Door Seal. The seal can only be purchased as a set, and the brush seal can't be purchased as a spare part. The old seal set will need to be removed from your door and the new one installed

In your first photo the photo shows the bottom of the external screen door with the brush seal attached. But below it is the Moroday 915 x 60mm Auto Hinge Silver Door Seal. I don't know if this seal was attached to your external screen door or to your main door. This is why I mentioned being aware of where this second seal might be attached to. If the hinged seal door was attached to the main door, then that is where it needs to be installed.

If the hinges are still intact and are in good condition, then there is no need to get new hinges and just use the hinges you already have. But if the hinges are broken, then it will be necessary to get new hinges for the door.

The old rivets will need to be drilled out in order to remove them and replaced with new rivets. Yes, you'll need a rivet gun, I recommend the Craftright 285 x 175 x 45 Gun Rivet Set With 60 Piece Rivets. It comes with three rivet head sizes and a set of blind rivets in several sizes.

If you have a steel door frame, I recommend using rivets to anchor the hinges to the door frame. You also have the option of using Buildex 10G x 16mm Class 3 Galvanised Smooth Top TEKS® Screws - 150 Pack on the condition that they are the correct size and are fit for purpose. If your external door was attached using rivets, then it would be best to do the same. But if they used screws, I recommend using Buildex 10G x 16mm Class 3 Galvanised Smooth Top TEKS® Screws. But please compare them to the screws that were used originally on the door hinges to make sure you are getting the right one.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

Innov8tive

Hello @EricL

From the further photos attached, the seal was attached to the door it seems (where the light green space is on the front door).

So that is where I will attach the new seal. I think I will go with this one as it looks very much like the old one.

https://www.bunnings.com.au/moroday-915-x-60mm-auto-hinge-silver-door-seal_p4110432

To avoid confusion here I am assuming I only need to buy the one seal for the main wooden door and no seal for the actual screen door since there will be a seal already in place?

I am assuming that once I have attached it to the actual front door, the security will slot into the seal that I have installed on the front door? Is that correct?

Would it be fair to say that I would remove the bottom piece from the actual screen door before doing so?

The screen door was attached to the frame of the front door (see photos) So that is where I will be reattaching it to.

The hinges are still in good condition (not bent etc) I will keep them.

As for drilling the rivets out and putting new rivets in, I guess I will be learning how to put new rivets in and learning how to use a rivet gun. Do you recommend any good videos with a simple lesson of using a rivet gun?

The door was attached using screws and not rivets. I will replace the screws and remove the old ones. I am not entirely sure why rivets were used on a vrame that is not steel. It is wood. Would it be fair to say to get rid of the rivets altogether and just use the screws?

I thought the screw I had bought originally would be adequate.

EricL

Hello @Innov8tive

Thank you for sharing those extra photos. Yes, the Moroday 915 x 60mm Auto Hinge Silver Door Seal goes onto the light green space of the wooden door.

If you feel that the old seal on the screen door is still functional, then there is no need to replace it unless you want a new seal.

I am unsure on what you are referring to when you say that "assuming that once I have attached it to the actual front door, the security will slot into the seal that I have installed on the front door?" Can you please clarify what slot you are referring to?

The security door should fit in with no issue as it is being installed in the same place. But for ease of installation removing the seal would probably help.

I recommend having a look at this guide - How to Use a Riveter

If the door was attached using screws and not rivets. then it is best to replace like-for-like. If you are certain that the frame is wood, then using screws would be best.

If the screws you purchased are the correct size and are big enough, I recommend using them for your repairs.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

Nailbag

Hi @Innov8tive

Aside from refitting your auto door seal, the more complicated issue are the hinges. As it looks to me from the 2nd photo that at least that hinge has separated/broken away from the frame side. If I’m right and that is the case, I’m fairly certain you can’t buy replacement hinges as I can also see that the door is a high-security model. The profiles and size tend to be brand specific.

The black carpet strip is part of the original door and nothing to do with the Raven auto weatherstrip which has been put on after market. It may need to be slid off its track completely and refitted.

The screws for the Raven strip may still be in tact and simply needs refitting. If so, loosen the screws then lift the flap as you position the strip onto the screws and tighten. You will need to lie down to do this.

If there are broken screws the door seal comes with more fixing positions than are typically utilised. However you need to access at lease the two outer ones. I ideally drill new holes next to the old ones if you can’t remove the broken screws. But usually I can using Vice-grips.

Repairing security doors properly can be challenging for the experienced especially if the hinges are broken or damaged so, I would consider getting someone who specialises in these types of repairs.

Nailbag

Innov8tive

@EricL

Apologies I was pretty tired last night. Upon seeing what you have said, everything makes sense now and I feel I can fit this door with more confidence. Thank you for the video of the riveter, that was really helpful.

Just a question, when drilling out the old rivets, what drill bit and technique would I use to remove the old rivets?

Innov8tive

@Nailbag

Thank you very much for the further input. I am determined to give this a shot myself. I understand everything you are saying and feel fairly confident that I can repair this. I also agree that there are more fixings than is actually needed so I will adjust that while I am reattaching the door.

Thanks again.

Innov8tive

@EricL

I purchased that door seal today and it looks like I'm going to need to cut it to size. I bought a hacksaw but also have a grinder if all else fails.

EricL

Hello @Innov8tive

To remove the old rivets, you can drill through them using a drill bit that is slightly larger than the hole that is currently present on the rivet head.

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves and goggles when cutting the door seal.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

Nailbag

Hi @Innov8tive

Only use the larger drill bit to wear off the head of the rivets. Then switch to a 2-2.5mm to drill out the stem. This will allow you to use the same holes for the new rivets. Good luck.

Nailbag

Innov8tive

@Nailbag

Thank you. There are some females who want to learn new skills and know how to fix and make things themselves. These are valuable skills. Too many women fear picking up a too and giving things a chance.

Nailbag

Interesting you mention that @Innov8tive. When I was a Powertools trainer, it was the females who paid the most attention, and first to come up and use the tools at nearly every session. Meanwhile most of the men thinking they knew it all or didn’t want to admit they didn’t. They often stood back and were a struggle to get the tools in their hands to have a go. The females often said they wanted to learn to do things themselves because they were either on their own or they couldn’t get projects done by their partners. They made the sessions more rewarding.

Nailbag

Innov8tive

@Nailbag

That's really interesting to me. I think regardless of gender we should all be able to admit we don't know everything and there's people that know something we don't. I feel sometimes for men it is harder because if the way they are conditioned. To admit they don't know is scary for them. Some more openness wouldn't go astray. Females on the other hand as you say are more curious, eager to learn and willing to give it a chance under supervised guidance. It's not the tool that's scary, it's not knowing how to use it. Avid YouTube learner here as there is no one to teach me but I also do lots of workshops when I can. This community here is also a great place to learn. Thanks for sharing the experience with me.

Nailbag

Your welcome @Innov8tive. The biggest influence I experienced in any newbie having a go at using power tools, was the invention of cordless models. These were lighter and quieter over their corded counterparts allowing a feeling of confidence to use them.

Innov8tive

@nailbag, I often go back to how on earth they managed quite a way back with no power tools or safety equipment - yet still managed to craft amazing things. In that way, we actually have nothing to complain about today. Just requires a different set of skills.

Innov8tive

@Nailbag @EricL

I completely forgot I need to reattach this but don't have the bracket. Does Bunnings supply the brackets?

JacobZ

Hi @Innov8tive,

If you could identify the specific model of your door closer and it was one that we sell, we could certainly look at whether the accompanying brackets can be ordered as a spare part.

Alternatively, you could just purchase a new door closer such as this https://www.bunnings.com.au/rolltrak-white-pneumatic-door-closer_p0938651 . Considering time and effort to confirm the correct part, track it down, get a price, then time to order it and ship it to you, this might be an easier option.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob

Innov8tive

@JacobZ

Thanks for that. I actually just went to bunnings now and purchased that exact part as felt it was the best solution. Cheers

Innov8tive

@EricL @Nailbag

Pretty proud of my efforts today. I managed to install the weather seal, new door handle and the screen door.

After all that, the disappointment for me was the screen door not locking. Somehow it seems jammed or it got locked with keys and needs to be unlocked. That was super disappointing but very happy with how it turned out.

Nailbag

Excellent work @Innov8tive looks like new.

Unless the screen door handle has been removed it’s very odd that’s it’s not operating.

Does it work correctly with the door open? Remembering you have to push and hold in the small silver plunger. This allows the mechanism to lock/unlock. If not then there is a possible issue with the assembly. If it does then it’s a possible issue that the plunger is not depressing fully when the door is closed. This can happen when the distance between the striker plate on the door frame and door edge is too far apart. This may have changed with the hinge repair.

Nailbag

Innov8tive

@Nailbag

Whether open or shut, it does the same thing. I think in this case it's just best to get the actual lock mechanism replaced by a locksmith as they can also check for any alignment issues. I don't think it's the way I re installed the actual door. But whether open or closed - the locking mechanism is stubborn - it will turn about a quarter then just won't budge. Perhaps best to just get a locksmith to repair the lock?

Nailbag

hi @Innov8tive

Don’t waste your money on a locksmith as they will charge triple the cost of a new handle set from Bunnings. They come in a standard fitment size and two body sizes. So take your current handle to Bunnings to match. It’s a super easy process for an expert like you to replace 😬

Innov8tive

@Nailbag

Kind of you to say. I just really don't feel confident. I'm learning that what seems straightforward very rarely is. Then you think it will fix it and it doesn't. Locksmiths are very expensive but sometimes paying the money so it is someone else's problem is worth it. I was lucky I bought good drill bits for metal yesterday. There was a lot of problem solving involved that no manuals ur YouTube videos can teach you. I was buggered. I also had a door to hang which caused me many issues so needless to say I'm buggered today. Those rivets - some were bent and smashed in so eventually got them all out but it wasn't fun.

JacobZ

Hi @Innov8tive,

You've done a fantastic job with everything so far, but I also understand that all that work to get to a point where you think you're finished and then another problem arises can certainly take a toll. Nothing is more frustrating than working to a target only for the finish line to change.

If you'd like to give the lock replacement a try, we'd be more than happy to help, but also completely understand if you'd like to get a locksmith in to sort out the last little problems.

Jacob

Innov8tive

@JacobZ

I think I've reached my limit with it. If I buy the lock and install it, then need to re align the doors as that is an issue, I won't be too happy. So I feel to just get the locksmith to sort it. Our of interest - what is the new lock that would work with this screen door in specific. I'll buy it and give it to the locksmith.

EricL

Hello @Innov8tive

It appears to be very similar to the https://www.bunnings.com.au/yale-quattro-lock-screen-security-door_p0095500 . But the only way to be really find out is to remove the old lock and match it to the size of the new one. It's possible that the locksmith will have a similar lock in their service vehicle. Another way you can help is to send a photo of the lock with a tape measure beside it. This will help the locksmith narrow down the type of lock you have on your door.

I also suggest checking out the store's Door Lock Installation Service, especially if you are looking for a professional to install your door lock.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric