6 Best RV Door Closers For Smoother Entry And Exit
Upgrade your RV with top door closers for effortless entry. We review the 6 best models to ensure smooth, secure operation and improved convenience on trips.
We have all been there: you are juggling groceries or gear, and that flimsy RV screen door slams shut or swings wildly in the wind. A reliable door closer is one of those small, inexpensive upgrades that transforms your rig from a frustrating rattle-trap into a functional home. Investing in a quality closer isn’t just about convenience; it’s about protecting your door frame from the inevitable wear and tear of constant movement.
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Why Your RV Door Needs a Reliable Closer
Living in a small space means every component works overtime, and your entry door is no exception. Without a closer, screen doors are prone to slamming, which eventually misaligns the latch or cracks the lightweight plastic frames common in most RVs. A good mechanism acts as a buffer, ensuring the door closes gently and stays shut against unexpected gusts.
Beyond the physical protection of your hardware, there is the undeniable benefit of pest control. If you have ever spent an evening swatting mosquitoes because your screen door didn’t latch properly, you know exactly why this upgrade is essential. A reliable closer ensures the door is always pulled tight, keeping the bugs out and your climate-controlled air inside.
Lippert Components Screen Door Closer
If you want a seamless, factory-finish look, the Lippert Components closer is the gold standard. It is designed to work perfectly with the most common RV entry doors, providing a smooth, pneumatic action that prevents that jarring "slam" effect. I recommend this for anyone who wants a "set it and forget it" solution that integrates cleanly with their existing hardware.
Keep bugs out and air in with the Lippert Screen Shot automatic RV screen door closer. This easy DIY upgrade installs directly into existing screen door channels, ensuring your door closes automatically for added convenience and protection. Compatible with Lippert entry doors only.
The installation is straightforward, making it a great weekend project for even the most novice DIYer. Because it is a major brand component, the build quality is consistent, and replacement parts are easy to find if you ever need them. If you value reliability and a clean aesthetic over everything else, this is the unit for you.
AP Products 013-410 Screen Door Closer
This heavy-duty pneumatic door closer provides reliable, controlled closing for screen and storm doors. Easily adjust closing speed and force, and install quickly with included hardware.
The AP Products 013-410 is a classic in the RV world for a reason: it’s simple, rugged, and does exactly what it promises. This model is ideal for those who prefer a mechanical, spring-loaded approach rather than a pneumatic one. It’s a no-frills workhorse that holds up well under heavy daily use.
I suggest this model for travelers who spend a lot of time in dusty or high-wind environments where more delicate pneumatic closers might struggle. It’s incredibly easy to adjust the tension, allowing you to dial in the exact force needed for your specific door weight. If you prioritize durability and ease of maintenance, this is a solid, reliable choice.
Camco Screen Door Cross Bar and Closer
Protect your RV screen door from damage and exit your RV with ease using the Camco Screen Door Cross Bar. It adjusts from 21-5/8" to 28-5/8" for a universal fit and provides a secure grip.
Camco’s solution is unique because it combines a protective crossbar with a closer, serving two purposes at once. The crossbar acts as a handle, preventing you from pushing directly on the screen mesh when closing the door, which is a major cause of screen damage. It is a dual-threat upgrade that extends the lifespan of your entire door assembly.
This is the perfect choice for families with children or pets who might accidentally lean on the screen. By adding the crossbar, you reinforce the door’s structural integrity while adding the convenience of an automatic closer. If you want to protect your screen from accidental tears while ensuring it stays shut, this is a highly practical investment.
Stromberg Carlson Door Closer Systems
Stromberg Carlson is known for engineering high-quality RV accessories, and their door closer systems follow that trend. These units are built to withstand the vibration and road shock that come with travel, meaning they won’t rattle loose as easily as cheaper alternatives. They offer a refined, smooth closing action that feels significantly more premium than standard factory hardware.
I recommend the Stromberg Carlson systems for owners of larger motorhomes or fifth wheels who want a more robust, heavy-duty solution. They are slightly more involved to install, but the trade-off is a much more stable and long-lasting performance. If your RV is your full-time home, the extra durability here is worth the initial effort.
RV Designer E396 Screen Door Closer
The RV Designer E396 is a fantastic budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice basic functionality. It is lightweight and compact, making it an excellent fit for smaller travel trailers or pop-up campers where space is at a premium. It provides just enough tension to keep the door from swinging open without adding unnecessary bulk to your door frame.
While it lacks some of the heavy-duty features of premium models, it is more than capable for light-duty, weekend-warrior use. It is easy to replace if it eventually wears out, and the price point allows you to keep a spare on hand. This is the go-to choice for the minimalist who wants a functional, low-cost fix.
JR Products 70245 Screen Door Closer
JR Products has built a reputation for high-quality replacement parts, and the 70245 closer is no exception. It features a robust design that handles the repetitive stress of constant entry and exit with ease. The tension adjustment is precise, allowing you to find the "sweet spot" where the door closes firmly but doesn’t slam.
This is a great middle-ground option for those who want better quality than the basic factory-installed closers without jumping to a premium price point. It’s reliable, easy to install, and fits a wide variety of door configurations. If you are looking for a dependable upgrade that won’t let you down, this is a smart, balanced choice.
Key Features for RV Door Closer Upgrades
When shopping for a closer, look for adjustable tension settings, as no two RV doors are perfectly balanced. A unit that allows you to change the closing speed is vital, especially if you fluctuate between hot and cold climates where door frames may expand or contract. Always check the mounting hardware compatibility, as some units require specific clearance behind the screen door.
Consider the material construction as well; metal components will almost always outperform plastic in the long run. Also, think about the "stop" mechanism—does the closer allow the door to stay open at a specific angle, or does it always pull shut? Choosing the right feature set depends on how you use your rig, so be honest about whether you need convenience or maximum security.
Proper Installation and Tension Settings
The secret to a long-lasting door closer isn’t just the product—it’s the installation. Always ensure your door frame is level before mounting the closer; if the frame is sagging, the closer will be fighting against gravity rather than working with it. Use the provided templates carefully, and don’t be afraid to use a bit of blue thread-locker on the screws to prevent them from vibrating loose on the highway.
Once installed, spend time fine-tuning the tension. You want the door to latch securely without slamming so hard that it vibrates the entire wall. If the door bounces back after closing, the tension is too high; if it doesn’t reach the latch, it’s too low. A few minutes of adjustment now will save you hours of frustration and potential repair costs down the road.
Maintaining Your RV Door Closer Mechanism
Even the best closers need a little love to keep working smoothly. Once a season, wipe down the pneumatic rod or spring mechanism with a clean cloth to remove road grit and dust. If you have a pneumatic model, a tiny drop of silicone lubricant on the rod can prevent the seals from drying out or sticking.
Periodically check the mounting screws, as the constant vibration of the road can cause them to loosen over time. If you notice the door starting to hang or fail to latch, don’t just force it—check the alignment first. A proactive approach to maintenance ensures your entry door remains a reliable, effortless part of your daily RV life.
Upgrading your RV door closer is one of those small, high-impact changes that makes life on the road feel significantly more refined. By choosing the right mechanism for your specific rig and maintaining it properly, you’ll eliminate the annoyance of slamming doors and keep your home secure. Take the time to install it right, and you’ll enjoy a smoother, quieter transition every time you step outside.
