Installing a wooden screen door instead of a typical storm door is an affordable option to your ventilation needs.

Step 1: Prepare the area by removing any existing storm door and frame. Fill gaps and nail holes with wood putty. Prime and paint the area as needed.

Step 2: Measure the top, bottom and middle of the inside width of the door opening where the new screen door will be mounted. Measure the height along both sides of the opening, as well as the height in the middle of the opening.

Install a wooden screen door

Step 3: Using the larger of each of the three measurements, choose a wooden screen door that best fits the opening. Doors typically come in 30-, 32- and 36-inch widths and are approximately 80 inches tall. Most doors can be trimmed up to 3/8-inch on each side and up to 1/4-inch on the bottom and top of the door.

Step 4: Use a block plane or rasp to trim the door down to size. The final door size should allow 3/16-inch clearance on each side of the door and 1/4-inch of clearance at the bottom of the door.

Step 5: Set the door into place and mark the proper location for the handle set. Confirm there is enough clearance for the handle between the primary door and the screen door.

Step 6: With the screen door on a stable surface, install three flush-mount hinges on the hinge side of the door. Mount the first hinge approximately 8 inches from the top of the door. Mount the second hinge approximately 8 inches from the bottom of the door. Mount the third hinge in the middle of the door an equal distance from the top and bottom hinges. Use a self-centering nail punch to mark the screw hole locations for each hinge. Pre-drill the holes before screwing the hinges into place.

Step 7: Mount the screen door into the door opening. Use shims along the top and bottom to hold it in place.

Step 8: Use the self-centering punch to mark the screw hole locations on the doorway frame. Pre-drill the holes and screw the door into place.

Step 9: Check to make sure the door swings open and shut freely. Make any necessary adjustments.

Step 10: Attach the handle set, add a screen door spring for good measure and close the door on a job well done.