Are you tired of your pets or kids damaging your RV screen door? We’ve seen the dog run through the screen door to chase squirrels, and kids lean hard enough to put a hand right through it. These scenarios aren’t good for the RV screen nor safe for kids and pets. So, the best way to eliminate these potential issues is to install an RV screen door protector.
While there are several options out there, the Lippert Screen Defender selection offers the most for different RV door sizes. Let’s learn more about this RV screen door pet protector, including how easy it is to install!
Discover the Lippert Screen Defender
Photos by Lippert
The Lippert Screen Defender RV entry door screen protector is an excellent RV upgrade for pet owners or families with young kids. If you’re constantly worried about RV screen door damage, it’s a quick and easy RV renovation that can save you from a full RV screen door repair.
Many DIY RV modifications require tools and a complex installation procedure, but this does not. This Lippert RV screen door protector easily snaps into place and has two different extrusion sizes to fit a wider selection of RV entry doors. There is arguably no easier and more affordable way to protect your RV screen door from damage.
You’ll find three Lippert Screen Defender sizes available from Camping World:
They all offer black powder-coated aluminum construction, compatibility with all Lippert screen doors, and multiple extrusion sizes to fit gaps taller than 20” (so there’s no weak spot remaining once installed!). With the time and money you’d otherwise spend repairing screen material or installing an entirely new RV screen door, the Lippert RV screen door protector is a worthwhile investment.
RV Screen Door Protector Benefits
Installing a screen door protector for RV use brings peace of mind to what some might consider a sensitive RV component.
A lot can damage your screen door. Of all the bells and whistles on modern RVs, we use our entry door every day. When we want to leave the exterior RV door open to provide added ventilation, the screen door is exposed to the elements, risking damage.
And while the elements can wear your RV screen door down, it usually takes a beating from several other sources—including us! Even if you don’t travel with kids or pets, RV screen door protectors can protect you from damaging your screen due to a slip down the stairs, dropping something when your hands are too full, or accidentally leaning into it when you forget the exterior door is open.
But you really see the benefits when traveling with young humans or furry companions. An RV pet screen door protector prevents scratching and clawing if you leave your pet unattended. It guards against pets trying to run out the door without realizing the screen is closed. It can also prevent things like pet drool dripping onto your screen when your furry companion can’t get enough of the scents wafting in from your RV outdoor kitchen.
With kids, an RV door screen protector makes leaving your exterior door open much safer. You won’t worry about young children falling through a screen and toppling down your RV steps. Don’t laugh—we’ve seen it happen, and it’s scary. While it can’t prevent issues with your screen door latch, a Lippert RV screen door protector undoubtedly adds safety and security when traveling with a young family.
Finally, an RV screen door pet protector can save you from the hassle of a complete RV screen door replacement!
How To Install the Lippert Screen Defender
For those convinced of the benefits of an RV screen door dog protector, here’s how to install the Lippert Screen Defender.
How To Measure for the Lippert Screen Defender
To find the right Lippert Screen Defender size, measure the inside of your RV entry door frame from one exterior edge to the other. Measure the door frame opening, NOT the door itself. Then, round your measurement to the nearest even number—24″, 26″, 28″, or 30″. This tells you which Lippert RV screen door protector size to purchase.
With the right size in hand, here are the three easy steps to the Lippert Screen Defender installation:
Step 1: Dry Fit and Measure for the Extrusion
Start by fully opening your RV entry and screen door, keeping them latched together. Then, “dry fit” the Screen Defender against the inside of your door by resting its bottom edge on the screen frame’s bottom inside edge. Holding it in place, measure the gap from the Screen Defender’s top edge to the bottom of the screen door’s lower H-bar.
If the gap is less than 2”, you can use the shorter set of extrusions that came with the Screen Defender. The standard extrusion set will be required for gaps greater than 2 inches. Note that the extrusion itself will extend the gap by roughly ⅜” when the Screen Defender is placed on top of it.
Step 2: Install the Extrusion
Whether using the short or standard extrusion, press the two pieces together to match your gap measurement. We recommended pressing one end together, securing the middle, and then pressing the other end together until you reach the desired dimension. Then, place the assembled extrusion on the lower rail of your RV screen door frame.
Step 3: Set the Screen in Place
Pick up the Screen Defender and note the channel guides on the two lower corners. For proper installation, these must be inserted into the rear channel of your screen door frame. Angle the Screen Defender to place one guide into the left—or right-hand rear channel. Then, repeat until the opposite channel guide is in the track.
Lower the Screen Defender until you can retract both latches at the upper corners and push the top edge into the rear screen door channel. Release the latches to secure the top edge in place. This should coincide with the bottom edge pushing down into the installed extrusion. You may need to adjust the extrusion height for a tight fit.
Hopefully, this Lippert Screen Defender installation guide will help you understand how easy it is to protect your RV’s entry door. But if you don’t feel comfortable installing it on your own, contact our Service Department.
Explore other RV door modifications:
- Installing an RV Screen Door Push Bar
- Need an RV Door Handle Upgrade?
- Ready for an RV Screen Door Replacement?
Do you use the Screen Defender? Do you have another solution to protect your RV screen door? Let us know in the comments below!
