Have you noticed small holes or rips in your window screens? Are the screen’s edges old and frayed—potentially pulling away from the frame? Is the mesh loose, mangled or unsightly? If so, you’re probably ready for new window screens.
Fortunately, installing new screens can be simple. Our pros have put together this easy guide to installing new window screens in your home.
The Value of Replacing Your Window Screens
While replacing your window screens is not a perfect solution to replacing, worn, broken, and inefficient windows, getting new screens can make working windows more enjoyable by:
- Providing a neater, fresher appearance
- Allowing in fresh air and better ventilation
- Reducing ways for insects to enter your home
- Keeping debris from striking windowpanes and damaging the glass
Ready to get started? Here’s what to do:
Decide on Screen Repair vs. a Replacement Screen
Sometimes, you’ll just need to replace one screen that has some damage, rather than all of them. The only way to tell is to do a visual check. Look at each screen from inside and outside your home, looking for holes, tears, fraying, looseness, and other signs the screen needs replacement.
If the frame is in good shape and it’s just the screen that’s damaged, DIY repairs are an option. If the frame itself is broken, it’s worthwhile to buy a full replacement screen.
How to Install a New Window Screen and Frame
The easiest way to update your window screens is to simply order a set of new ones from the manufacturer. Usually, this replacement process is quick and simple:
- From inside your home, open the window and release the clips that hold the screen in place.
- Gently pull the screen inside.
- Put the new screen in place, with the latches facing inside so you can access them.
- Slide the clips into a locked position—your screen should now stay in place, and you’re good to go.
How to DIY Repair a Window Screen
If you’ve decided you can salvage the existing frames and just want to replace the mesh of the screen, you’ll need to take a few extra steps.
1. Gather Your Tools
You’ll need a tape measure, marking pencil, scissors, heavy-duty tape, and a screen tool (easily available at home improvement stores).
You’ll also need plenty of screen mesh, as well as spline—a cord that goes inside the groove of the frame to hold the mesh in place.
2. Choose Your Mesh Type
Did you know window screens come in different materials? Aluminum mesh is long-lasting and popular. Fiberglass is simple to install, because it doesn’t crease. Polyester is heavy and more durable. You can also opt for features such as how tightly woven they are, how visible or invisible they appear when looking out the window, etc.
3. Attach the Screen to Its Frame
Place the frame with the channel side facing up. Then take the mesh, roll it tightly across the frame and tape it down firmly to each edge of the frame.
4. Cut the Screen to Size
Trim the mesh one inch longer and wider than the frame, so it overlaps the channel by a half-inch all around. Next, trim the corners to create 45-angles. This allows for a taut, neat appearance.
5. Insert the Spline
Use the screen tool’s grooved wheel to place the spline into the channel at the top of the screen and follow around the perimeter of the frame while holding the screen taut. This keeps the screen securely in place.
6. Trim Away Any Excess
To create a clean, polished appearance, cut off any mesh that extends beyond the screen frame.
7. Install the Repaired Screen
Take the screen inside and use the latches and clips to slide it back into place. You’re good to go!
Lasting Windows and Screens Will Keep You Delighted with Your Home
We hope you’re loving your replacement windows and screens, and we want to help you ensure they last. After all, at Beissel Window & Siding, we don’t just see you as a number or a job. Your satisfaction matters to us. So, if you have any questions about caring for your windows, let us know. We’re here to serve you!
