How to Measure for a Sliding Screen-Door Replacement

Published: Apr 13, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

There are different types of screen doors depending on the manufacturer of the patio door, but for a generic screen, measurements can be taken so the proper size screen can be installed.

Things You Will Need

  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Paper
  1. Unlock and slide open the patio door. Locate the header at the top of the track on the inside of the patio door. Feel the shape of the track at the top and determine if it is T-shaped or U-shaped.

  2. Measure from the top of the track at one end of the door down to the threshold on the ground with a tape measure. Write down the measurement. Move halfway down the opening and measure again. Write down the measurement.

  3. Measure a final time from the end of the door. Compare the measurements and make sure they all match up. This will verify the door is square and plumb in the opening.

  4. Add 3/8-inch to the measurement for a T-shaped header and 1/8-inch for a U-shaped header.

The Drip Cap

  • Sliding screen doors are found on most patio doors.
  • These screens are convenient because they allow the patio door to be open.
  • Locate the header at the top of the track on the inside of the patio door.
  • Write down the measurement.
Alexander Callos

Alexander Callos began writing in 2005 for "The Lantern" at The Ohio State University and has written for various websites, including Bleacher Report, Top Ten Real Estate Deals and Columbus Sports. He has published articles for CBS Sports,…

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