Have you noticed small holes or rips in your window screens? Are the screen’s edges old and frayed—potentially pulling away from the frame? Is the mesh loose, mangled or unsightly? If so, you’re probably ready for new window screens.
Fortunately, installing new screens can be simple. Our pros have put together this easy guide to installing new window screens in your home.
While replacing your window screens is not a perfect solution to replacing, worn, broken, and inefficient windows, getting new screens can make working windows more enjoyable by:
Ready to get started? Here’s what to do:
Sometimes, you’ll just need to replace one screen that has some damage, rather than all of them. The only way to tell is to do a visual check. Look at each screen from inside and outside your home, looking for holes, tears, fraying, looseness, and other signs the screen needs replacement.
If the frame is in good shape and it’s just the screen that’s damaged, DIY repairs are an option. If the frame itself is broken, it’s worthwhile to buy a full replacement screen.
The easiest way to update your window screens is to simply order a set of new ones from the manufacturer. Usually, this replacement process is quick and simple:
If you’ve decided you can salvage the existing frames and just want to replace the mesh of the screen, you’ll need to take a few extra steps.
You’ll need a tape measure, marking pencil, scissors, heavy-duty tape, and a screen tool (easily available at home improvement stores).
You’ll also need plenty of screen mesh, as well as spline—a cord that goes inside the groove of the frame to hold the mesh in place.
Did you know window screens come in different materials? Aluminum mesh is long-lasting and popular. Fiberglass is simple to install, because it doesn’t crease. Polyester is heavy and more durable. You can also opt for features such as how tightly woven they are, how visible or invisible they appear when looking out the window, etc.
Place the frame with the channel side facing up. Then take the mesh, roll it tightly across the frame and tape it down firmly to each edge of the frame.
Trim the mesh one inch longer and wider than the frame, so it overlaps the channel by a half-inch all around. Next, trim the corners to create 45-angles. This allows for a taut, neat appearance.
Use the screen tool’s grooved wheel to place the spline into the channel at the top of the screen and follow around the perimeter of the frame while holding the screen taut. This keeps the screen securely in place.
To create a clean, polished appearance, cut off any mesh that extends beyond the screen frame.
Take the screen inside and use the latches and clips to slide it back into place. You’re good to go!
Want to learn more about window replacement options for your home?
Our “Homeowner’s Guide to Replacement Windows” is a great place to start.
Read the GuideWe hope you’re loving your replacement windows and screens, and we want to help you ensure they last. After all, at Beissel Window & Siding, we don’t just see you as a number or a job. Your satisfaction matters to us. So, if you have any questions about caring for your windows, let us know. We’re here to serve you!
Can Someone Tell Me How to Put a Window Screen Back In?
Hi -
I feel so stupid. I'm living in a new house (new to me anyway). In my old house, window screens slid up and down. I never removed them. In this house, a screen was removed from a window. I want to put it back but I haven't a clue how to do it. I've tried for at least 30 minutes.
It is the kind of screen that covers only the bottom window. It has no tabs or anything. The only moveable part it has are two tiny screws up at the top of the screen.
If I manage to get the screen in the top of the window, there is no way to get it to fit into the groove at the bottom. I can't left it up and in, for instance. There's no room.
Is there some kind of trick to this that can be explained to someone who is totally windows-challenged?
If you can help me with this, I'd then like to ask you how the heck you get these screens out in the first place. I want to remove them from my other windows, wash the windows, and then put them back in.
Thank you!!!