How to Remove a Screen Door in Five Steps

Knowing how to remove a screen door from its track is a skill that all homeowners should have but not one that everyone has mastered. Whether you’re planning on replacing an old and damaged screen or just prefer to remove it during the winter months, the process doesn’t have to be difficult. No matter what your reason, learning how to remove a sliding screen door is as simple as following these steps.

Removing a Sliding Screen Door

If you don’t yet know how to remove a screen door from its track, follow these simple steps. The entire process should take less than half an hour and requires a flathead and Phillips screwdriver.

1. Remove Blinds, Curtains, and Other Nonessentials

Learning how to remove a sliding screen door is a relatively straightforward process, though it pays to do whatever possible to simplify it. By removing curtains, blinds, furniture, and other objects from the area, you can be sure they won’t be in your way once you’re ready to reposition the screen.

2. Unscrew the Screws at the Bottom of the Door

Now that your work area is clear, you can begin by locating the screws at the bottom of your screen door. These screws hold the bottom wheels securely in place and should be located near the corners of the door. You should be able to unscrew them easily with a Philips head screwdriver. You won’t have to unscrew them completely but just enough so that you can easily lift the door up out of its track.

3. Raise the Door Gently

Once the screws are loose, start to raise the door gently out of its track. It’s important to take care during this process to avoid puncturing the screen or damaging the door frame. You only need to raise it slightly so that the lower wheels are exposed.

4. Unscrew the Head Stop

The head stop is the piece of hardware that holds the upper portion of your screen door securely in place. It’s attached to your wood door frame with a screw located in the upper left corner where the door rests when it’s closed. Using your Philips head screwdriver, remove the first screw located here and all others along the length of the track. If you find that they’re too firmly attached, you may need to use a power screwdriver.

Safety note: It’s important to take caution when removing this screw as the door could fall from its frame after it’s removed.

5. Carefully Remove the Door

Once the head stop is loose, you can remove the door. It may be helpful to have a second pair of hands during this step to keep the door steady while you pry it loose. With the door steadied, use a flathead screwdriver to pry the bottom of the door from its bottom track. After the bottom wheels are free, the rest of the door should slide out easily.

Need Professional Help?

If you’re still having trouble figuring out how to remove a sliding screen door, getting in touch with a professional door and window service is the next best step. If you need help with a screen door, window fixtures, roofing, or other home items, get in touch with Thompson Creek today. Our team has the skills and experience to ensure window and door installations and removals go smoothly.