Often put over a window, a window screen is a protective mesh-like cloth that lets fresh air in while blocking insects, trash, and other big particles. Usually composed of aluminum or fiberglass, it serves as a barrier for open windows. Very widespread, especially in contemporary homes, they come in numerous kinds and sizes to fit various window frames and designs. You likely have window screens if your windows open.
What Causes Damage to Window Screens?
Given their thinness, window screens are rather robust; but, like any other component of the house, window screens will inevitably wear down with time. Usually, a few factors cause this for window screens:
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Environmental and Weather Elements
Severe weather conditions such as storms, high winds, and hail can harm window screens. High winds can bring down branches or move debris that harms window screens; hailstones can dent or tear the screens.
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Outdoor Animals and Pests
Window screens do a great job of keeping undesirable visitors out of your house—but it doesn’t prevent them from attempting to enter. Occasionally, insects, birds, and rodents may attempt to scratch or chew on your window screen, resulting in damage. Over time, this damage builds up and can seriously harm the material.
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Normal Wear and Tear
Window screens can suffer wear and tear from regular use and exposure to the outdoors. Constant window opening and closing as well as exposure to wind and rain can gradually degrade the screen material and its attachments, causing tears, holes, or frame loosening.
How to Simply Replace and Fix a Window Screen
With the correct equipment and direction, fixing a window screen is a simple home maintenance chore. To address your window screen repair job, follow these easy instructions:
1.Collect the Required Instruments
Before you start, be sure you have all the tools available to you. Get the right spline—usually rubber or vinyl—along with a reliable utility knife, measuring tape, convenient spline roller, and replacement screen material of you are choosing. Having a screwdriver on hand is usually a smart idea just in case your window frame calls for it.
2. Take Out the Broken Screen
From the inside, open your window and examine the edges carefully. Search for any springs, clamps, or tabs keeping the damaged screen in place. Remove or release these attachments to liberate the screen and place it aside on a level, solid surface. Pry the spline out of the channel and take off the damaged screen with a screwdriver. Throw it away; if you can’t utilize the spline, throw it away as well and clean the screen frame. This will guarantee its readiness for a new screen replacement.
3. Cut the Replacement Material to Size
Set the frame on a level work surface and roll out sufficient screen material to cover the whole frame. Using a utility knife, leave an extra 2 inches of screening material on either side and trim the screen to size. This guarantees a correct fit for your replacement screen.
4. Set the New Window Screen
Place the newly cut replacement screen material over the window frame and ensure it covers the whole aperture. Clips or tape can be used to temporarily hold it in place during installation, hence assisting stability and smoothing the installation procedure.
5. Put in the Spline
Roll it along the groove and around the frame until you reach the beginning. This technique guarantees that the screen material is firmly maintained in position.
6. Remove extra Screen Material
Although not necessary, this action guarantees the right placement of the window screen and its cleaner, more polished look.
7. Put the Screen Back In
Now is the moment to bring back your recently fixed window screen.
Conclusion
Often overlooked, window screens are a necessary component of the house. These screens are the barrier letting the warm breeze in and keeping the undesired insects out when you open your windows. That makes it all the more crucial for your window screens to be in tip-top condition. Fortunately, fixing them isn’t the great chore it might first appear, given you take your time and handle the work with care. Your newly restored window screen will have you relishing that fresh summer air in no time by following the advice above and spending a bit of time.