Repairing ScreensIf you find yourself hesitating to open your windows because the screens have holes in them, here are some tips for repairing them.
For very small holes, you can use a patching kit. However, the repair will be noticeable. You’ll probably be happier with the screen’s appearance if you just replace the screening. Aluminum screens provide excellent visibility, but they are subject to damage by pets. Vinyl cloth screens are very tough, though. They’ll hold up to a St. Bernard trying to claw through them. Consider solar fiberglass screens, which really cut down on the amount of UV rays and sunlight. They’re great if you have wall-to-wall carpeting in a south-facing room or furniture that you want to protect. It’s a little more expensive, but it’s worth it if it prolongs the life of your furnishings.
To install the new screen, you’ll need a few tools:- a splining tool
- a hammer
- a screwdriver
- scissors or a utility knife
1. Start by removing the spline material from the old screen. That’s the rubber padding that holds the screen in place. If you’re careful removing it, you can use it with the new screen. Once you have it out of the frame, wash it in warm, sudsy water. Or you can just buy new spline.
2. Remove the old screening material and discard it. Wash the screen frame before you start putting in the new material.
3. You’ll need to keep the frame steady while you’re working on it. You can clamp it to a workbench, or you can use a sheet of plywood and hold the frame in place by nailing a couple of strips of wood across them.
4. Lay the new screen over the frame, allowing a 1/2-inch overlap on all four sides. Work on one side, then move to the opposite side. That will keep the screen taut.
5. To get the screen to go into the channel, crease it a bit so that it fits easily. Then start inserting the spline carefully. The spline will keep it tight and snugly in place.
6. If you want, you can keep the old screen and the scraps from installing the new ones. You can use them to repair any small holes in less visible areas later on.
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