Storm doors are exterior doors installed in front of main entry doors to provide additional insulation, weatherproofing, and security. They typically consist of a metal or vinyl frame holding a glass or screened panel that allows air flow and light into the home while acting as a barrier against the elements. Storm doors are hung on hinges and outfitted with a door closure mechanism to ensure they close firmly when not in use. Over time, the door closure can weaken or become misaligned, causing the door to slam loudly when closing. A slamming storm door can damage the door frame and glass, disturb household members, and allow cold drafts into the home. Adjusting the door closure is often all that is needed to fix a slamming storm door and make it operate quietly once again.
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What Causes a Storm Door to Slam?
There are a few common causes of a slamming storm door:
Weak or broken door closer
Most storm doors have a pneumatic door closer mounted at the top of the door frame. This device uses an internal piston and spring system to regulate the speed at which the door closes. Over time, the springs can weaken or the piston mechanism can wear out, preventing the closer from properly controlling the door’s swing speed. A failing door closer is unable to slow the door’s momentum as it approaches the closed position, resulting in loud slamming.
Misaligned door closer
If the door closer is knocked out of alignment, it may close the door at an uncontrolled, rapid pace. The closer may be misaligned if the door frame has shifted or if the closer itself has been bumped or moved from its original mounted position. Even a minor misalignment can significantly impact the closer’s operation.
Loose hinges
For the door closer to work properly, the hinges holding the door must be snug and provide stability. Loose, worn, or bent hinges allow too much play in the door’s range of motion, making it difficult for the closer to control the door’s swing. The excess movement can lead to slamming.
Sticking weatherstripping
Most storm doors have weatherstripping along the frame to block out drafts. Over time, this weatherstripping can stick to the door, causing resistance as the door closes. The door has to slam with extra force to overcome this resistance.
Damaged hydraulic arm
Some heavy-duty storm doors use a hydraulic or spring-loaded arm near the bottom of the door rather than a pneumatic closer. If this arm is damaged or disconnected, it can also cause the door to slam rather than close gently under control.
How to Adjust the Door Closer
If your storm door is slamming, try adjusting the door closer first. Doing so is quite straightforward:
1. Locate the door closer
You’ll find the door closer mounted near the top of the door frame on the interior side. It consists of a metal cylinder about 4-6 inches long attached to an aluminum mounting bracket.
2. Identify the speed adjustment screw
There will be a screw on the underside or back end of the closer cylinder. This is the speed adjustment screw. It controls the rate at which the piston moves through the cylinder. Turning this screw adjusts the closing speed.
| Screw Orientation | Effect on Closing Speed |
| Turn screw clockwise | Increases closing speed |
| Turn screw counterclockwise | Decreases closing speed |
3. Make small adjustments
Turn the adjustment screw in 1/8 to 1/4 turn increments to finetune the closing speed. Turn clockwise to make the door close faster or counterclockwise to slow the closing speed. Test the door after each small adjustment.
4. Adjust until quiet closing is achieved
Continue making minor speed adjustments until the door is able to close completely without slamming loudly against the frame. Opening the door to a 45 degree angle and allowing it to close gives the best indication of the current closing speed.
5. Check alignment if needed
If adjusting the closer does not resolve the slamming issue, the door closer may be misaligned and in need of realignment. Refer to the door closer mounting instructions to properly realign it, allowing smooth and controlled door closure.
Other Solutions for a Slamming Storm Door
If adjusting the door closer does not eliminate the slamming, there are a few other fixes to try:
Replace the door closer
If the door closer is older or damaged, it may need to be replaced with a new one so it can once again properly regulate the door’s swing speed. Purchase a replacement closer designed specifically for storm doors.
Tighten loose hinges
Use a screwdriver to snug up any loose screws securing the door hinges to the frame. Tightening loose hinges helps stabilize the door.
Lubricate sticking weatherstripping
Apply a small amount of silicone spray or powdered graphite to the weatherstripping along the door frame. This lubricates the surface so the weatherstripping does not stick to the door.
Replace bent or damaged hydraulic arm
For doors with a hydraulic check arm rather than a pneumatic closer, replace any damaged or disconnected hardware allowing the uncontrolled slamming.
Install door bumpers
Adhesive-backed rubber or felt door bumpers can cushion the impact when a storm door closes. Place bumpers at points where the door contacts the frame.
Leave door partially open
If other solutions fail, leaving the door partially open a few inches when not in use can allow air circulation while preventing annoying slamming from occurring.
Conclusion
Storm doors provide great benefits, but a constantly slamming door can quickly become a nuisance. In most cases, the slamming is due to a weakened or misaligned door closer that can be repaired with some simple adjustments. Tightening loose hinges, lubricating weatherstripping, and replacing damaged hardware can also help resolve a slamming storm door. With some maintenance and troubleshooting, you can have a storm door that closes smoothly and quietly, keeping your entryway draft-free without the disruption of loud banging. Making the effort to properly adjust and maintain your storm door ensures it operates optimally and provides maximum protection and convenience for years to come.