How to Replace Your Window Screens

Nobody likes bugs flying around inside their home. Now that cool weather has arrived, it is a good time to inspect your window screens. Do any need to be replaced prior to next spring? It doesn't take much to damage a screen, and luckily it doesn't take much to handle window screen replacement either.

Options for Window Screen Replacement

Three common approaches to window screen replacement are:

1. Purchase new screens from the window manufacturer. If you know who made your windows, you should be able to purchase new screens from that company. Be careful though, it can be difficult to determine window sizes as each window manufacturer seems to have their own way of measuring.
2. Purchase new screens from a local window company. Local window companies usually have the ability to come out and measure your windows, and custom-make new screens where you need them.
3. Make new screens yourself. Materials are available at most home improvement stores.

Window Screen Replacement for the Home Handy-Person

You can purchase screen repair kits from home improvement stores, or purchase the materials you will need separately. Materials you should look for:

1. Roll of screen
2. Rubber spline for screen windows and doors
3. Spline tool for screen windows and doors

In addition you may need scissors, a utility knife, and a screwdriver or awl. Place the damaged screen on a flat working area, and remove the old rubber spline holding the screen into the frame, then pull away the damaged screen. Cut the new screen about a 1/2 inch larger than the opening, and use the spline tool to insert the new spline to hold the screen in place. Trim the excess screen material, and you have just performed your first window screen replacement.