How to Install a Window Screen

A torn window screen can ruin the look of your home, as well as let the bugs in. Replacing them yourself can save a lot of money and is easy. It is really a matter of just taking your time and keeping a steady hand.

Step 1 -  Buying New Screen

If you are just replacing a single window screen, you don’t need to buy a whole roll of new screen. So, take the width and height measurements of the window screen you are replacing, and just buy what you need. To be on the safe side, add a couple of inches to the width and length measurements. There are different types of  aluminium and vinyl screen available. If you had aluminium, and want to change to vinyl, or visa versa, there is no practical reason why not to.  

Step 2 - Removing the Old Screen

Remove the window screen and then pry away the old screen spline with a screwdriver, or awl. Sometimes, it is possible to reuse the old spline. However, it will most likely be brittle. New screen spline can be purchased for just a few dollars from a hardware store. Once the spline is removed, the old screen is ready to come off.  Don’t rip it off harshly, try to keep the old screen intact as much as possible. This will help when cutting the new screen. Clean out the trench with a paintbrush.  

Step 3 - Cutting the New Screen

To cut the screen you will need a good sturdy surface. The floor is good, with a piece of cardboard laid over it.  Lay the old screen over the new screen. Using a utility knife and a straight edge (or metal rule), cut between 1 and 2 inches outside the old screen. It does not have to be a perfect cut, because the excess screen is going to be trimmed off later anyway. 

Step 4 - Fitting

Lay the newly cut screen over the screen frame. Indent the new screen into the spline trench, using the screen roller (a screen roller can be purchased from a hardware store for less than $5). Take care not to cause any damage, by using too much pressure. It may take several passes. Lay the screen spline in the trench, starting at the corner. Using the grooved end of the roller, carefully press the spline into the indent.  This may also take several passes.  Keep the screen tight as you roll in the new spline. When that’s done, trim off all the excess screen, with a utility knife. Take care to keep the blade away from the spline, or you may find yourself starting from step 1, all over again!