Window screens are an easy way to keep bugs and pests out of your house while allowing fresh air to come inside. They also act as a barrier to prevent pets or children from falling out of open windows. Unfortunately, screens and their frames can suffer damage. Some of these problems may be easy to repair, while others may require replacement.
Read on to find out the basics of window screen repair.
When to replace a window screen
If there’s severe damage to a window screen, that means it will need to be replaced. Screens that have rips and large holes need to be switched out. Other signs that a screen needs to be replaced are when the screen mesh is shiny rather matte or if you’re noticing more outdoor noise coming than usual. These signs mean the screen is old and worn out.
Process for replacement
Replacing your screens serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose. Let’s start by taking the damaged mesh out of the screen:
- Begin by taking the screen out of the window and laying it on a flat surface;
- Take a screwdriver and pry the window screen spline out of the grooves on the frame’s edge;
- Take out the damaged screen, and dispose of it.
Now it’s time to stretch out the new mesh and begin screen cutting:
- Take the new roll of screen and stretch it over the window frame;
- Leave a bit of extra screen hanging over the frame so it can be secured tightly;
- Cut the screen with a pair of scissors.
Next is securing the screen mesh:
- Take a spline roller, and press the spline and screen into the retaining grooves on the frame;
- Once it’s secure, the mesh should be taught across the frame;
- Secure all sides of the mesh, and trim away any extraneous material with a utility knife;
- Be sure to avoid cutting into the spline.
Finally, replace the screen in the window.
Window screen repair
If there are minor holes or tears in a window screen, then you can fix these with glue and patches. Here’s how the process works:
- Measure the size of the hole, and make sure you will be able to patch it without damaging the screen’s functionality;
- Screen cutting is the next step. Cut a neat square, and bend the edges of the hole so that the mesh’s cut ends will connect with the patch;
- Cut out the patch, and make it about a half an inch bigger on all sides than the hole you’re covering up;
- Secure the patch with waterproof glue. Don’t use too much glue, and wipe away any drips before the glue hardens.
Whether you need new window screens, lumber, construction materials or tools, the experts at Stewart Lumber & Hardware Co. are here to help. We have a superior selection of top products available for everyone from homeowners and contractors to remodelers. Contact us today to talk to our friendly and knowledgeable staff.