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LOCK MECHANISM, STORM DOOR AND SCREEN DOOR HARDWARE

Description: This varies, but it normally consists of a knob on the outside and a lever-type handle inside. It usually comes in black or white to match the colors of most storm doors, but some are of plain aluminum.

Buying information: It's best to remove the existing lock mechanism and take it to the store to get a replacement; screw holes vary from brand to brand, and you have to get what fits in your door, whether the door is of metal or wood.

It is possible to increase the security that the lock mechanism provides. Some don't lock, but you can get replacements that have a lever you flip to lock. This allows you to keep the entry door open and yet have the storm door locked.

For even greater security, you can get a lock mechanism that operates with a key.

If the lock mechanism you buy does not come out far enough to engage the old striker, you can get nylon shims to insert under the strike plate to bring it out as far as necessary.

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