How to Upgrade Your RV Screen Door Closer for Bug Control & Pet Safety

If you’ve ever been camping and found yourself constantly swatting away bugs or chasing after a curious pet, you know how important a properly functioning RV screen door closer can be. This small but mighty component ensures your screen door closes automatically after you open it, keeping pests out, pets in, and your RV comfortable.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about RV screen door closers, why upgrading is worth it, and how the Lippert Screen Shot® can make your RV experience smoother and more enjoyable.

An RV screen door closer is a device that automatically closes your RV’s screen door after it’s been opened. Its main purpose is to:

• Keep bugs and pests out of your RV
• Prevent pets from escaping
• Add convenience by eliminating the need to manually close the door every time

An RV screen door closer is a small but essential device designed to automatically close your RV’s screen door after it has been opened. This simple mechanism plays a big role in maintaining comfort and convenience inside your RV. By ensuring the screen door closes on its own, it helps keep bugs, dust, and other unwanted elements outside while also preventing pets from wandering out unexpectedly. For RV owners who frequently move in and out of their rig, a screen door closer eliminates the hassle of manually shutting the door every time.

If your screen door doesn't have a closer or the existing closer functions poorly, it can lead to a surprising number of inconveniences and even safety issues.

One of the most common issues is bug intrusion. Without a reliable closer, your screen door may stay open longer than intended, giving insects and pests an easy entry point into your RV. This can quickly turn a relaxing camping trip into a frustrating experience.

Another major concern is pet safety. If you travel with dogs or cats, an open or partially closed screen door can become an escape route. Pets can slip outside unnoticed, creating a stressful situation and potential danger, especially in unfamiliar campgrounds or near busy roads.

There’s also a safety hazard when the wind picks up. A screen door without a proper closer can swing or flap uncontrollably in gusty conditions. This can damage the door, the frame, or even nearby objects, and in some cases, it can injure someone standing in the doorway. A strong wind catching an unsecured screen door can cause it to slam shut unexpectedly or swing wide open, both of which can lead to costly repairs and safety risks.

Finally, there’s the matter of convenience and wear and tear. Without a good closer, you’ll find yourself constantly reaching back to shut the door manually, which can be annoying when your hands are full. Over time, repeated slamming or improper closure can damage the door frame and hardware, leading to expensive fixes.

When it comes to upgrading, the Lippert Screen Shot automatic RV screen door closer is a game-changer. Here’s why:

What is the Lippert Screen Shot?

The Lippert Screen Shot is an automatic RV screen door closer that uses a retractable cord system to gently and reliably pull your screen door shut every time.

Key Features:

• Automatic closing for hands-free convenience
• Easy installation – no drilling required
• Durable design for long-term use
• Works with Lippert RV screen doors

Why It’s Better

Unlike traditional spring-loaded closers, the Lippert Screen Shot provides a smooth, controlled closure without slamming. It’s perfect for families, pet owners, and anyone who wants a hassle-free camping experience.

One of the best things about the Lippert Screen Shot is how easy it is to install. You don’t need to be a professional or have a garage full of tools. Most RV owners can complete the installation in 10–15 minutes with just a few basic items.

What You’ll Need

• A screwdriver
• Measuring tape (to confirm your doorframe size before installation)

1. Measure Your Doorframe
   Before you start, make sure you have the correct Screen Shot size for your RV. Measure the inside edges of your entryway doorframe and compare it to Lippert’s sizing chart. If your measurement doesn’t match one of the listed ranges, the Screen Shot won’t fit properly.
2. Locate the Mounting Channels
   Open your RV screen door and find the inner channels where the Screen Shot anchors will fit. These channels are built into most Lippert screen doors, so no drilling or extra hardware is required.
3. Attach the Anchors
   Slide the Screen Shot’s custom anchors into the door’s inner channels. Once in place, secure them with the provided screws. This ensures the closer stays firmly attached during use.
4. Install the Elastic Webbing
   Next, attach the elastic webbing to the door jamb. This is what creates the tension that pulls your screen door closed. When the door opens, the webbing stretches; when you let go, it gently retracts, closing the door automatically.
5. Test and Adjust
   Open and close the door a few times to make sure everything works smoothly. The Screen Shot is designed to close the door firmly without slamming, so if it feels too tight or too loose, double-check that the anchors and webbing are installed correctly.

Upgrading your RV screen door closer is a small change that makes a big difference in your camping experience. From keeping bugs out to making life easier when your hands are full, the right closer adds comfort and convenience to every trip.

For the best upgrade, choose the Lippert Screen Shot — a reliable, easy-to-install solution that works with most RV screen doors.