Window screens are a simple and effective way to keep insects and other pests from entering your home while you bring in fresh air from outside. They can also filter out the sun and even dampen exterior noise, but small holes and tears in the window screen mesh are common problems. They can be fixed with window screen repair tools (such as adhesives, spline rollers, and premanufactured patches), but you will most likely have to replace them at some point. Here are some window screen replacement tips that you should take into careful consideration.
#1: Make Sure You Have the Right Tools
Like any other home improvement project, window screen replacement takes preparation. Whether it’s aluminum or fiberglass, you want to make sure you have the right type of screen for your windows. You should be able to find what you need at any hardware store; spline tool, utility knife, and tape measure.
#2: Measure Your Windows from the Inside
If you’re planning to re-screen your window, you want to measure from the inside. Use a tape measure to measure the screen opening from each corner and subtract about 1/8 of an inch to make sure you have enough clearance to install the window screen.
#3: Don’t Ignore Mesh Type
Window screens can be made out of different materials. Aluminum is a popular option that can last a long time. Fiberglass is easier to install because it doesn’t crease. Polyester window screens are heavier, but they’re more durable. You also want to think about other features (such as how tightly woven they are and how visible they are when you’re looking out the window).
#4: Add Some Weight to Keep the Screen from Sagging
While you re-screen your window, make sure it isn’t too loose because it will sag. But if you pull it too tight (which is especially true for larger door and window screens), the extra tension can cause bowing in the aluminum sides. Place a brick or some other heavy object at the center of the window screen to keep it from sagging or bowing while you secure it to the spline.
#5: Use a Spline to Secure the Window Screen to the Frame
You want to pull your replacement window screen tight enough so you don’t see any waves, but you don’t want to pull it so tight that it stretches out the screen or bends the frame. Use the spline tool to run the window screen along the trough area inside the frame, and you want to do it for every side. If you have any trouble securing the corners, you can use a screwdriver to pin the spline into place. After you have gone all the way around, it’s time to cut off the excess so you can secure it inside the trough. It might be a good idea to run the spline tool around the screen again to make sure everything is secure.
#6: Leave it to a Professional
If you’re looking for someone in the Houston area to help you with your window screen replacement, be sure to get in touch with Replacement Windows of Katy.