Is your Pella storm door handle giving you grief? Don't sweat it! Replacing a storm door handle is a surprisingly simple DIY project. And who knows, it might even be easier than convincing your furry friend to take a bath. Let's walk through how to install a Pella storm door handle, so you can get back to enjoying the fresh air and keeping the bugs out.
Gathering Your Supplies
Before you start, make sure you have everything you need. Running to the hardware store mid-project is never fun (especially with a bored pup waiting at home).
- New Pella Storm Door Handle: Obviously! Make sure it's the correct model for your door.
- Screwdriver: Usually a Phillips head. A multi-bit screwdriver can be very useful.
- Pencil: For marking screw hole locations.
- Safety Glasses: Always a good idea to protect your eyes.
A Quick Tip About Handles
Pella offers different handle styles. Take a photo of your old handle before you remove it. This helps ensure you purchase the correct replacement. Some older models may require calling Pella directly for replacement parts.
Removing the Old Handle
Time to say goodbye to the old, possibly broken, handle. This is generally the easiest part of the process.
- Locate the Screws: Typically, there are two screws on the inside of the door handle.
- Unscrew and Remove: Use your screwdriver to carefully remove the screws. Keep track of them! They might be useful later.
- Separate the Handle Pieces: The handle should now come apart in two pieces – one inside, one outside.
- Remove the Spindle (if applicable): Some handles have a spindle that connects the inside and outside pieces. Remove it.
Installing the New Handle
Now for the fun part – putting in the new handle and making your storm door functional again!
- Position the Outside Handle: Place the outside portion of the new handle onto the door.
- Insert the Spindle (if applicable): If your handle uses a spindle, insert it through the outside handle and the door.
- Position the Inside Handle: Place the inside portion of the new handle onto the door, aligning it with the outside handle and spindle.
- Secure with Screws: Use the screws that came with your new handle (or the old ones if they fit) to secure the inside and outside pieces together. Don't overtighten! You could strip the screws or damage the door.
Pro Tip: Screw Alignment
If the screw holes don't line up perfectly, use your pencil to mark the correct locations and slightly enlarge the holes with a drill or awl. Be very careful not to drill all the way through the door! This rarely occurs, but is a common issue when replacing a very old storm door handle.
Testing and Adjustments
Before you declare victory, make sure everything works smoothly.
- Test the Latch: Open and close the door several times to ensure the latch engages properly.
- Check the Handle Movement: The handle should move freely and easily. If it's stiff, loosen the screws slightly.
- Adjust if Necessary: If the latch isn't catching, you might need to adjust the strike plate on the door frame. Loosen the strike plate screws, move the plate slightly, and retighten.
That's it! You've successfully installed a new Pella storm door handle. Give yourself a pat on the back (and maybe a treat for your furry assistant, who probably supervised the whole operation).