Window Screens Repair and Replacement Guide

Window screens allow fresh air to flow into your home while keeping insects and debris out. However, screens can become damaged over time from wear and tear, pets, weather, and more. Learning how to properly repair or replace damaged window screens is an easy DIY project that can save you money on professional screen replacement services.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the steps, tools, and tips you need to know to successfully repair or install new window screens in your home.

Materials and Tools Needed

Before starting any window screen project, you will need to gather the correct materials and tools. Having everything you need to be prepared ahead of time will make the process smoother and easier.

Materials

• Screen replacement kits or screen roll material
• Screen spline
• Screen frame corners (if fully replacing the frame)

Tools

• Tape measure
• Utility knife
• Scissors
• Flathead screwdriver
• Screen installation tool or roller
• Pliers
• Hammer
• Level
• Masking tape (painter’s tape)

Step 1: Remove the Existing Damaged Screen

The first step is to take out the current screen so you can repair it or install a new replacement screen.

Instructions

1. Open the window the screen is installed on and prop the window open if possible. This allows for easier access.
2. Remove any obstructions around the window frame such as curtains/blinds, plants, furniture, etc. This creates a clear workspace.
3. Locate the spline securing the screen. The spline is a thin, flexible plastic cord that fits into a groove around the perimeter of the screen frame.
   • Tip: The spline may be painted the same color as the frame, so look closely.
4. Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry and loosen the spline from inside the groove. Go slowly and take care not to damage the frame.
5. Once the spline is removed, the screen material can be fully taken out of the frame.
6. Set the damaged screen aside in a safe place. Inspect the frame for any additional damage before continuing.

Step 2: Measure the Window Frame

In order to cut replacement screen material to the right size, you’ll need to measure the window frame precisely.

Instructions

1. Measure across the widest point of the window frame for the width. Include the grooves for the spline.
2. Measure top to bottom for the height, again accounting for the full inside area.
3. Add an extra 1 inch to both measurements to give extra room for adjusting and securing the screen. It’s easier to trim excess material later.
4. Confirm measurements by double-checking numbers. Accurate measurements are crucial for proper screen fitting.
5. Screen roll material is sold in various standard widths (18”, 24”, 36”, etc.) at hardware stores. Buy a width that fits your window frame.

Step 3: Cut and Size the New Screen Material

Once you have the correct replacement screen material and measurements, it’s time to cut the material to fit the window frame.

Instructions

1. Carefully measure and mark cut lines on your new screen material using your window frame measurements. Include the extra inch on all sides you added earlier.
2. To avoid fraying, cover cut lines with masking tape before cutting. Painter’s tape works well and won’t leave residue.
3. Using a sharp utility knife on a flat, solid surface, firmly cut along the marked lines. Change blades as needed for clean cuts.
4. Smooth any rough edges using scissors once the bulk of the material is cut.
5. Test fit the material in the window frame to check sizing. It should fit snugly but still be able to slide into position.
6. Use tin snips to cut corners at 45-degree angles if needed for an exact fit.

Step 4: Secure the New Screen Material

Once custom cut to size, the new screen material can be secured into the window frame using spline.

Instructions

1. Center the screen material over the frame. Ensure it sits flat and pulls evenly on all sides.
2. Insert spline into the frame groove around the entire perimeter, slowly working it into place with a spline installation tool, roller, or firm pressure from your hands.
   • Tip: Lubricate the spline with soap and water if it is difficult to insert.
3. Roll the spline inward with a tool or your thumb to press the screen material securely into the groove underneath. Go slowly and apply firm, even pressure.
4. Trim any excess material using a sharp utility knife. Remove tape and labels.
5. Once done, visually inspect the edges, pressing along the spline to ensure the screen is tightly secured.

Step 5: Install the New or Repaired Screen

After the screen is cut, sized, and secured to the frame, install it correctly back into the window.

Instructions

1. Before installation, open the window fully and prop it open if possible for easier access.
2. Check the window frame for any rough edges or gaps that could damage the screen. File down any issues.
3. Gently press the framed screen directly back into the window grooves or tracks. Take care not to bend the screen.
4. Secure any loose edges or corners. Some windows use clips, tabs, screws or adhesive Velcro dots to hold screens in.
5. Check again for a tight fit, adjusting as needed until the screen sits flush with window edges all around.
6. Carefully close the window while holding the screen firmly in place. Ensure it stays securely installed as the window closes.

Repairing Screens vs. Full Replacement

For minor screen tears or holes, you can patch and repair the screen rather than completing a full replacement. However, severe damage usually requires complete new screen installation.

Repairing Screens

• Use screen patching kits for small holes and tears up to 3 inches. Includes adhesive patches and mesh screen material.
• Larger holes can be patched with scrap screen material and clear silicone sealant or seam tape adhesive.
• Properly patched screens can gain extra years of use before needing full replacement.

Full Replacement

• Multiple holes/tears, large holes wider than 3 inches, severe pet damage, mold, and mesh deterioration often require entire screen replacement.
• New screen material installed into the existing frame is cheaper than a full frame replacement.
• For windows more than 5 years old, consider fully replacing the entire screen unit including the frame for maximum durability.

Helpful Tips and Tricks

Follow these useful tips and tricks to make your window screen project go smoothly from start to finish:

• When prying at a stuck spline, take care not to bend or break the frame. Go slowly and reposition tools as needed.
• Prevent pet damage by regularly trimming back nearby trees/bushes and keeping pets away from screens.
• Rinse screens with a hose and gently scrub with a soft brush to clean pollen, dirt, and debris without damaging the mesh.
• Buy 2-3 extra feet of screen material to allow room for errors in measuring and cutting.
• Improve visibility by switching out the standard fiberglass screen for a clearer vinyl mesh screen.
• Prevent screen blow outs in the wind by installing screens on the inside rather than the outside of window frames.
• Label each screen by window location before removal for easy reinstallation. Use painter’s tape.

When to Call a Professional

While DIY screen replacement is straightforward for standard window screens, some situations call for letting the professionals handle it:

• Screens for egress windows (emergency exit windows) have strict codes and requirements for functionality and need professional installation and repair.
• Odd-shaped windows like circular, arched, and custom windows require specialized screen fabrication with unique frames.
• Screens higher than one story up often necessitate special equipment for safe access and to prevent falls.

If any aspect of your window or screen replacement project seems unsafe, complex, or beyond your skill level, hire a professional service. They have the tools and knowledge to get it done right.

Breathe Easy with New Window Screens

With the right materials, tools, and following these step-by-step instructions, you can successfully repair or replace damaged window screens in your home.

Correctly installed screens keep your house pest-free during open-window weather while allowing fresh air circulation. Plus, DIY screen replacement saves money and gives you control over your home’s function and security.