If the weatherstrip has been installed correctly, then typically the issue is a combination of the new weatherstrip breaking in and the old weatherstrip having worn out. After a couple weeks, the new weatherstrip should settle down and the door should close smoothly yet firmly.
Chances are the strike plate on the door has been adjusted and now that you have new weather stripping it is binding up. To verify this first open the door and put a dab of grease or lipstick on the door latch. Turn the handle so the latch is retracted and close the door.
Tighten screws or bolts on the door frame and strike plate
If they are loose, the strike plate will not be able to properly receive the bolt, and the door will not close securely. In addition, the screws or bolts that secure the door frame to the wall should also be checked periodically.
Most of the time, it's because of old hinges causing a sagging door—or the door wasn't installed properly in the first place. For example, the door latch may not be perfectly aligned with the striker plate. Or there could be an issue with the door jambs.
It could be a number of things, check lock / strike plate are aligned, it might be binding ( hinges ) check the hinges and see if they need adjusting, either packing out or sinking the hinges more. The door could be warped ( advise buying new door ).
If your door isn't sealing properly, inspect the gaps around the edges. Adjust the strike plate or latch to ensure a snug fit. Moving the strike plate in might seal things up. Thicker weatherstripping on an exterior door can also be your ally in creating a more airtight seal.
Any type of repeated wear and tear can loosen screws and lead to your storm door not closing. Your storm door protects your home 24/7/365 from everything from wind to snow and rain. These regular encounters with mother nature could be the reason why your storm door won't close properly.
If the door doesn't latch properly, the strike plate may need adjustment. Loosen the adjustment screws securing the strike plate to the door frame. Move the strike plate slightly in the direction needed for proper alignment and tighten the screws back in place.
A storm door that does not fully close, and latches only after the entry door is closed indicates air is being trapped between the entry door and the storm door. If the trapped air is not allowed to escape as the storm door swings closed, then the storm door will not be able to close with enough force to latch.
If you cannot lock the door, then the material you used may be either too thick or too hard.
Start by opening the closer and removing the two side retaining pins. The spring can now be accessed through the central opening. Adjust the spring by carefully turning the screw located on the top of the device. Then, turn the screw counterclockwise to increase spring tension and clockwise to decrease it.
If you are looking for the most energy-efficient storm door, the following things are non-negotiable: The door needs weather stripping to ensure a tight seal. It should hinge on the same side as your main door. A professional should take all measurements and ensure a flawless fit.
After a couple weeks, the new weatherstrip should settle down and the door should close smoothly yet firmly. If after a few weeks the door is still very difficult to close, your door may be out of alignment. Try tightening and shimming hinges as needed.
Checking For Gaps and Leaks
Once you've located the weather stripping, check for air leaks. The dollar bill test should work well for this. (If you're not American, your local currency should work just as well). Take the dollar bill and place it between the door and jamb where you suspect there may be a leak.
To fix a door that won't stay shut, check the hinges and tighten any loose screws, adjust the strike plate so the latch fits, use shims between the hinges and the frame, or replace the hinge pins with longer, thicker pins. If the problem persists, seek professional help.
Hinges tend to become loose over time due to constant use, and the first ones to loosen are the top hinges attaching your door to its frame. When the door hinges are out of alignment, you can try to tighten the hinge screws using a screwdriver—tighten especially the ones holding the hinge to the jamb and the door.
There are several reasons a door may stick in the doorframe, including loose hardware, a sagging frame, or seized hinges. Humidity is another common cause of sticking doors: The high moisture level in the air can seep into the wood, resulting in a swollen door that does not open or close properly.