Summer storms and high temps can wear away at our window screens and screen doors leading to breakage and tears. To make matters worse this is the one time of year that we all need our screens the most to keep out those pesky warm-weather bugs. We’ve created step-by-step instructions if you’re looking to repair your window screen.
Can Screens Be Repaired?
Unfortunately when a screen breaks or tears it does need to be replaced. Luckily the process can be fair easy and painless. Here we’ll walk you through replacing a window screen like a pro. Don’t want to take the DIY risk? Contact us to do it for you.
Tools you will need:
- New window screen. Note: the are multiple types of screen mesh include fiberglass, aluminum, stainless steel. polyester, wire mesh, etc.
- Screen spline (if not included with the new screen). Note: Spline come if different sizes. if you are unsure of yours you can take a section you removed from the window to your local hardware store in order too match it.
- Screen spline roller tool
- Utility knife or scissors
- Tape measure
- Flathead screwdriver (optional, for prying out old spline)
Step 1: Measure the Window Opening Start by measuring the dimensions of your window opening. Measure both the width and height accurately. You will need these measurements to purchase or cut the new screen material to the correct size.
Step 2: Remove the Old Screen if your old screen is still intact, carefully remove it from the window frame. You may need to use a flathead screwdriver to pry out the old spline that holds the screen in place. Once the spline is removed, the screen should come out easily. If there is dirt or dust in the frame this is the best time to clean it out.
Step 3: Cut the New Screen Material Using the measurements you took earlier, adding an extra 1-2 inches on each side to make sure you have enough to fit in to each frame channel.
Step 4: Using the roller tool, roll your screen in to the channels around the window frame. Make sure to keep the screen taut during this process to ensure there are no waves in the screen later on.
Step 5: Install the Spline Starting at one corner of the window frame, use a screen spline roller tool to press the spline into the groove around the channels of the frame. Work your way around the entire frame, continuing to keep the screen material taut as you go.
Step 6: Trim any excess screen material and spline. Usually a utility knife is best for this.
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