How to Replace a Torn Screen

If you have a hole or a tear in your screen, add screen repair to your home improvement checklist. It's an easy project that you can finish in an hour or two!

Repairing a Small Tear
If you notice a small tear, you'll want to take care of it right away before it turns into a larger one. One option is to use screen repair tape. However, this is often noticeable and can pull on the rest of the screen mesh, causing additional damage. 

A thin line of Super Glue or another quick-drying adhesive may be enough to correct the tear and prevent it from spreading. Wait for the glue to dry and you're done. 

Replacing a Full Screen 
If the tear or hole is too large or other parts of the screen are damaged, you may want to replace it entirely. Although this is a larger home improvement project, it's still fairly easy.

Start by gathering the materials you need. This includes:

• Screen mesh
• Spline
• Spline tool
• Utility knife
• Flat-head screwdriver
• Scissors
• Utility knife
• Clamps (optional)

Next, you'll want to choose the right type of screen. Your options include fiberglass, vinyl cloth, aluminum, and solar fiberglass. Each material has its pros and cons. Use the following instructions to repair a fiberglass mesh screen. 

Cut the Replacement Screen
Start by removing the screen and frame from the window. Lay it flat and roll out enough of the new screen, so it covers the entire frame. Give yourself plenty of excess on all sides, as this will make it easier to work with. Once you've measured the new screen, cut it from the roll. 

Remove the Damaged Screen
Screens are held in place by a piece of plastic called a spline. The spline runs along the inside of the frame. To remove the screen, use a sharp object (like a nail punch) to pull the spline away from the channel and out fo the frame.

Once this is removed, the screen should easily come out. Before you proceed, wash the frame and use a can of compressed air to blow out any dirt or debris that has collected. 

Lay Out Your New Screen
Turning the curved part of the new screen downward, lay it out across the frame. It's helpful to use clamps to hold it taut to frame while you complete the next steps. Once you've clipped the screen in place, crease it down along the screen frame's perimeter.

Replace the Spline
Start at one corner and use your fingers to push the spline into the channel that runs along the frame on one side. Try to do it evenly, but don't worry about getting the screen tight just yet.

Next, use the spline tool to press the spline into the grove, carefully pushing the wheel in only one direction. As you do this, the screen will be pulled tight. Use your flat-head screwdriver to press it into the corners where the wheel won't reach.  

Cut Away the Excess Screen
Your last step is to cut the end of the spline with a utility knife. Then, carefully use the knife to cut the excess screen mesh along the outside of the frame's groove. This step ensures a clean, straight cut. 

That's it! Place your new screen back into the window, and this home improvement project is done!

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