How to Fix a Window Screen

/in /by

How to Fix a Window ScreenWindow screens play an important role in keeping your home comfortable during the warmer months. When they tear or snag, they are not able to do their job of letting fresh air in your home while keeping bugs out.

Fortunately, repairing a broken window screen is a quick and easy home DIY project that anyone can do. Simply follow these steps:

  1. Get the materials and tools you’ll need:
    • New screening
    • A new “spline” (plastic cording specific to window screen installation)
    • Rolling spline installation tool (often packaged together with spline cording)
    • Small flat-head screwdriver, nail punch, or other sharp object
    • Scissors
    • Tape or clamps
    • Utility knife
  2. Remove and discard old screen. The material on the window screen is held in place by a spline, or thin plastic cord. Using a nail punch, flat-head screwdriver, or other sharp object, lift the spline out of the frame starting in one corner. Remove the spline all the way around the screen, then discard the spline and old screening material.
  3. Size and cut new material. Working on a flat surface, lay out window screen frame and roll out enough new screening material to cover the entire frame, leaving a 2-inch border on all sides. Cut away extra screening material.
  4. Position and prepare the screen. Place newly cut screening material flat over the frame, leaving a 2-inch border on all sides. Pull screening material tight and clamp or tape in place at both ends of the frame.
  5. Insert the new plastic spline. Use the convex side of the rolling tool and, starting at one corner and working your way around, push the screening material into the channel of the frame. Be sure to pull material taut as you work your way around. Then, use the concave side of the rolling tool to install the spline into the same channel. Once the new spline and screening material is in place, use a utility knife to trim away any extra material.
  6. Place your repaired screen back in the window and enjoy!

And if you know of anyone looking for a home inspector in Milwaukee, be sure to have them call Town & Country Building Inspection, Inc. We’re here to help homebuyers make smart property investments.