Thinking about replacing your shed door? You could build your own or fit a low-cost, high-quality shed door manufactured by professionals. Choosing to do this means you’re guaranteed good quality and the look you want.
To us, it’s a no-brainer! Materials can cost an arm and a leg. So, to save you time and hassle, buying a replacement shed door is miles ahead of constructing your own.
All you have to do is fit it using our step-by-step guide to replacing a shed door.
Table of contents
Preparing for your shed door replacement
Before anything, you’ll need to prepare for your new shed door. That means taking accurate door measurements and purchasing the accessories you need for a suitable fit.
So, here’s what you need to prepare for your new shed door:
- A tape measure
- A pencil
Step one: Measure the existing door frame
Using the tape measure, take measurements of the existing shed door frame. You must do this, even if you know the size of the previous door, as the frame may have swollen or warped slightly.
Take three width measurements inside the frame – one each at the top, middle and bottom. Use the widest width.
Then take measurements for both internal sides of the frame and use the highest height.
Learn more about taking accurate door measurements here.
Step two: Purchase a shed door, hinges and lock
Buy a shed door based on the accurate measurements you take. If you can’t find the exact shed door size, go up a size, as shed doors can be trimmed or sanded down for the best fit. Not sure what shed door you need? Check out our shed door buyer’s guide to make an informed decision before you buy.
Pay attention to the manufacturer’s instructions about shed door hinges. You’ll need either two or three, though this can depend on the heaviness of the door. If the manufacturer recommends three, then use three.
Once you’ve got your hinges, choose which lock you want. There are a variety of shed door locks for you to choose from. If security doesn’t matter, then a simple bolt and chain could work for you. Add a padlock for enhanced security.
How to replace a shed door
Now you’re prepared, it’s time to replace your shed door. First, let’s find out what you need!
What you will need
- A tape measure
- A pencil
- A shed door
- Hinges
- A shed door lock
- Wood stain (optional)
- Screwdriver
Step one: Fix your hinges
Line up your new hinges where the holes of the old door hinges were for total ease of fitting. Use a pencil to mark out where they should go on the shed door and screw these in for easier door hanging. Screws should be provided with the door you purchased.
Step two: Hang the new shed door
You’ll more than likely need someone to help you out with this as the heavy shed door must be lifted and placed on the hinges. Screw everything into place and open and close the shed door to get a feel if anything is sticking or jamming.
Step three: Finish the door with a wood stain
This stage is optional. You can use wood stain to change the colour of the door to be darker. This treats the door for a longer life and gives it a glossy finish.
There you have it! Your complete guide to garden shed door replacement.
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