Whether you are looking to replace a screen on a window or door, the good news is that this is a relatively manageable DIY project that just about any home owner can take on. You may need to replace your screen because it is torn or ripped, or you may simply wish to update your windows or screen doors. Each screen should only take about ten minutes to replace, provided that you have the right tools to complete the project.
What You Need
Before you can get started, you should make sure that you have the following items on hand:
- Rubber edging, which will run along the sides of the screen and between the door
- Measuring tape to ensure that you cut the screen to the correct size
- A razor blade or scissors, to be used specifically for cutting the screen
- New screen, which should also come with screen rollers
You can find all of these items at your local home improvement supply store or even in the home improvement section of some grocery stores.
Installing New Screens
Once you have all the supplies necessary to begin the installation, you will need to start by removing any existing window and door screens. This can be done by popping them out along with the existing rubber edging. Then, place something with a hard surface behind the open space of the window and measure exactly what dimensions your replacement screen should be using a tape measure.
Carefully using a razor or a sharp pair of scissors, cut the new screen to the size that is needed and feel free to leave a little bit of extra screen to be safe. You can always trim it down later if needed, but you will have to start over if you cut the screen too short. Then, cut the new rubber edging to fit around the screen that you have just cut. Be sure that you measure twice and cut once, as the last thing you want is to have to run out to buy new rubber edging or more screen at the last minute due to not measuring correctly.
Now comes the actual installation of the screen. Place the screen in the corner and inside the window gap, then use the screen roller to firmly push the rest of the screen down and into the side gaps of the window itself. The screen roller will help you ensure that the screen is installed evenly and tightly. Then, using a razor knife, you can trim any excess screen material that is leftover to ensure a perfect fit. This last step is important, as a screen that is too big for the frame will look odd.
Next, install the entire new screen window by simply popping it into place. From there, you will have successfully installed a new screen on your window or door. Repeat the same steps for every other window and door that needs to have a screen replaced around your home.
As you can see, installing new screens on the doors and windows at your home is not rocket science. Simply follow the above steps and you can have the entire project easily, with little mess to clean up, and in no time at all.
