[joetab24]

Had the door installed last year, so we've gotten used to it. But it's become annoying enough to the rest of my family, that I figured I would ask.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5yA9OoW_XgJUmoxSTN1RkpCdlk/view?usp=sharing

Are you aware of any screen door handles that require an initial pull to the right before it will allow you to push forward and open? That's what this does, and it appears to be by design. I can do it with ease but the rest of the family consistently struggles with it and is saying it's defective. Has been like this since day one. Thanks for taking a look!

Thanks,
Joe

 

[lenaitch]

it's not exactly like mine but they're all pretty much the same (I installed 2 storm doors last year). I don't seem to have your problem. Try adjusting the jamb latch a smidge to reduce the pressure on it. Hopefully it will have slotted holes in it.

 

[dd57chevy]

Have you tried reducing the shim thickness under the spring keeper ?

 

[gregzoll]

Standard handle. Around the outside of the door, it should be no more than the width of a Nickle. I use whatever I happen to have on hand for shims. Standard shims are a little thicker, but you always have those cases when you need to add one half the width, to help pull the door a little tighter. Adjust the latch accordingly, before screwing down. Use Toothpicks with glue to plug the old holes on the frame.

I have had to go as far on my back storm door and add the adhesive foam weatherstripping, so that I did not have to pull on the door to unlatch.

 

[GrayHair]

First, try rubbing a waxy lubricant on the strike (keeper) and the face of the pivoting latch bolt that contacts the strike. A candle will work just fine.

Most stormdoor handle sets are die-cast from either pot metal or Zamak. The principal component in both is zinc which corrodes. I always sprayed the handle with a dry film lubricant like this.

Carefully feel along the edge of the strike for a sharp spot or edge. Also feel the face of the pivoting latch that contacts the keeper for any slight ridge that may have formed. A sharp spot can removed with a file and a ridge would indicate indicate "excessive" pressure between the latch bolt and strike.