Build a Vintage Screen Door on a Budget

The nostalgic charm of a vintage screen door can transform the entrance of any home. These doors typically feature intricate woodwork, decorative brackets, and a distinctive slap sound when the door hits the frame. As beautiful as these doors are, they can be very expensive. This DIY approach combines creativity and practicality by saving money and allowing you to tailor the door’s design to your home’s style. Explore our guide and create a budget-friendly vintage screen door that gives your home character and curb appeal.

Materials Needed for Your DIY Vintage Screen Door

You can create a charming and personalized screen door using a premade door, some woodworking tools, and a little skill.

Basic Door Components

• Pre-made wood screen door (make sure to purchase the correct width)
• Screen material (if not included with the door)
• Door hinges and hardware

Tools and Supplies

• Hammer or nail gun
• Paintbrushes
• Sandpaper
• Paint or stain
• Measuring tape
• Saw (if custom cutting is needed)
• Safety gear (gloves, goggles)

Decorative Elements

• Wood spandrel
• Decorative brackets
• Thin strips of molding
• Wood glue
• Finishing nails

Step-by-Step Guide to Customizing Your Screen Door

Follow the steps below to transform your basic screen door into a timeless masterpiece.

Step 1: Prepare the Door

Remove any existing hardware or decorative elements from the door. Sand the door lightly to create a smooth surface for paint or stain. Thoroughly wipe it clean to remove any dust or debris.

Step 2: Add a Spandrel

A spandrel is a decorative panel that typically spans the bottom third of the door, adding visual interest and structural support. Measure and cut the spandrel to fit the bottom third of your door. Apply wood glue to the sides of the spandrel, place it on the door, and secure it with finishing nails.

Step 3: Install Brackets

Brackets add a touch of elegance to your door. Choose brackets that complement your door’s style. Mark the brackets’ positions in the eight corners created by the spandrel and attach them using wood glue and finishing nails.

Step 4: Apply Molding Strips

If the details stand out beyond the door frame, use thin strips of molding to bridge the pieces together. Measure and cut molding strips to fit around the edges of the door and spandrel. Apply wood glue to the back of the strips and place them on the edges. Nail the strips in place.

Customize Your Door

Once your base screen door is complete, paint the surface or add extra details to match your home’s decor and give it the vintage look you want.

Paint and Finish

Select a paint color that complements your home’s exterior. You can match the color of other elements outside your home, such as shutters, for a cohesive look. Or, to make a bold statement, choose a color that contrasts the siding. For an aged appearance, consider using milk paint or chalk paint. A glaze or antiquing medium can also add to the vintage look. Finish your paint job with a protective clear coat to make it last.

Adding Extra Details

Install a rustic handle or a charming nameplate to round out your door’s look and feel. Choose hardware that matches the primary door to tie the look together.

Other Vintage Door Sources

Customizing a new screen door is a fun way to spruce up the outside of your home, but there are other ways to achieve that classic, timeless look.

Purchasing Pre-Made, Vintage-Style Doors

Many manufacturers offer pre-made doors with vintage designs, which can be a time-saving alternative to DIY customization. Authentic vintage doors are just as charming, but they don’t allow you to customize each element.

Reclaimed Materials

Using reclaimed materials can add a certain feeling of authenticity to your vintage screen door project that factory-made doors might lack. Source old doors from salvage yards or antique shops or add repurposed vintage architectural elements like corbels, trim, or vintage handles and locks to make your door unique. 

Build Your Own Door

If you’re comfortable with DIY projects, you might even try to build a door from scratch for an even more personalized touch. However, installing a pre-made or customized door is more practical for most homeowners.

Install Your New Vintage-Style Screen Door

Once your custom door is complete or you’ve restored your salvaged one, install it carefully, following any manufacturer’s instructions closely.

1. Measure the door opening carefully.
2. Install the hinges on the door frame.
3. Hang the door, ensuring it’s level and plumb.
4. Add a door closer and handle.

Maintaining Your Door

Regular care will keep your door looking nice and functioning properly. Clean the screen regularly using a soft brush or a vacuum attachment to remove dust and debris. Tighten the hardware to prevent the door from sagging, and touch up the paint to protect the wood from moisture. Consider applying a fresh coat of protective clear finish annually, especially if the door is exposed to harsh weather conditions. If you have problems with it, learn how to fix a screen door so you can address problems quickly and keep your door in good shape.