Install Pella Storm Door

I am installing a new Pella Ashford Storm Door that touted 60 minute installation.

The instructions are very clear if the width of the door frame is the perfect size or is too big, but not so clear if the door frame is a bit too small. The first step in the instructions is to attach the "header frame" (which is just a metal bar) to the top of the door frame. But in my case, this "header frame" is about 1/4 inch too long. Should I cut the header frame or parts of the door jamb. I have placed the entire storm door and frame in the existing door frame and it is a tight fit. I really don't want to cut the existing door frame, but I am concerned that if I cut the "header frame", then I will be causing more problems. Any advice?

Reply to
mmclaurin2
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I have cut the storm door header every time I have installed a storm door. If the sides are not too tight, then it is fine.

Reply to
Mike Dobony

I have seen those instructions on every storm door. I don't know who made up that "rule". I install doors for a living do over 15 storms a week. I never install the head bar first. I always install the door first. Close it and hold the stike side frame in place to make sure there is enough width for the door to operate. If there is then I install the head piece. If not you have to cut off some of the brick molding to get additional width. The head jambs are cut pretty close to what is needed (remember you need to allow a certain gap for expansion). I have found the head jambs width a pretty good indication if you are going to have to cut the brickmold. If you need to cut it is best to cut the hinge side. Cutting the strike side sometimes makes the handle/latch so close to the door jamb that it is hard to get your hand in there to operate it.

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Reply to
calhoun

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