How to Repair a Screen in a Door or Window Frame

Buying new door or window screens can be expensive. Save money by learning how to repair a screen in an existing frame.

Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money off these affiliate links. Learn more.
Use the utility knife to cut off any excess of spline and screen. To remove the extra screen, slice along the inside of the frame above the spline for a nice, clean edge.

Trim away extra spline and overhanging screen

Use the utility knife to cut off any excess of spline and screen. To remove the extra screen, slice along the inside of the frame above the spline for a nice, clean edge.

Materials + Tools

Remove Damaged Screen

Discolorations, snags and tears are the result of regular wear and tear on the screens of home windows and doors (Image 1). To replace a door screen in its existing frame, lay the frame and damaged screen down on a large flat surface. If the spline is still intact, pull it free to release the old screen (Image 2).

Cut New Screen

Extend a length of new screen to overlap the frame (Image 1). Trim the screen to size, leaving a 1/2-inch overlap on all edges (Image 2). The screen will get more taut as you install it so you will end up with excess all around, but trimming the screen too short leaves you at risk of not having enough screen available to reach all edges.

Attach Screen to Frame

The screen spline installation tool has both convex and concave rollers on it that make it easy to wedge the spline into the frame to secure the new screen (Image 1). Begin by holding the spline (be it a new length, or the spline that you removed in Step 1 if it is in reusable condition), and align it over the screen and groove in the frame (Image 2). Use the concave end of the tool to press it into position, rolling slowly along the whole length of the frame (Image 3). Hold the screen taut with one hand while you roll with the other, or else you may find that the screen bunches in some areas (Image 4). As you reach the corners of the frame, force the spline into a right angle, and use the convex roller to press it in (Image 5). Roll over the length of the spline with the convex roller to ensure that it is completely pressed into the frame.

Trim Extra

Use the utility knife to cut off any excess of spline and screen (Image 1). To remove the extra screen, slice along the inside of the frame above the spline for a nice, clean edge (Image 2).

Next Up

How to Replace a Garage Door Spring

Learn how to identify a damaged or broken garage door spring and determine what it may take to get your door back in working shape.

How to Repair Drywall

A well-placed piece of art may be the quickest way to disguise a hole in your wall. But for a professional fix, follow our tips on how to patch a hole in drywall.

How to Replace a Window

When it's time to replace an outdated, inefficient window, it can be hard to know where to start, so we’ve got everything you need to know to get the job done.

8 Ways to Fix Drafty Windows

Save money and stay warm this winter with these DIY ways to insulate and weather-strip windows as well as doors.

How to Unclog a Toilet

Here are three ways to unclog a toilet, plus, discover some ways to prevent a toilet from getting clogged up.

How to Clean and Repair Gutters

Clogged gutters can cause damage to your roof, cause your basement to flood, and lead to problems that can destroy landscaping and undermine your home’s foundation. Learn how to clean your gutters at least twice yearly — in the spring and fall — to prevent this damage.

How to Install a Tile "Rug" Within a Hardwood Floor

Add high style to your high-traffic entry with this transitional floor tile inset.

How to Soundproof a Room Including the Doors and Windows

Find tips, techniques and cool products that make it possible to soundproof a home theater or recording studio, or to simply block out noise from a busy street.

Should You Add Garage Insulation? How to Choose.

From standard fiberglass insulation to high-end spray foam, there are several ways to properly insulate your garage from extreme heat and cold.

You'll Wonder How You Ever Lived Without These Handy Touch-Up Tools

Retouching paint on walls and refreshing wood furniture and flooring is much easier with these clever touch-up products for your home.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.