Replacing a window screen is a simple task that can be completed in a matter of minutes. However, it is important to take the time to do it correctly in order to ensure that the screen fits snugly and keeps out pests. In this article, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to put a screen back in the window.
Before you begin, you will need to gather a few supplies. These include a new window screen, a screwdriver, and a pair of pliers. You may also want to wear gloves to protect your hands from splinters.
Once you have gathered your supplies, you can begin the process of replacing the window screen. Start by removing the old screen from the window. To do this, simply use a screwdriver to remove the screws that are holding the screen in place. Once the screws are removed, you can lift the screen out of the window. Next, you will need to measure the window opening to determine the size of the new screen. Once you have the measurements, you can cut the new screen to size using a pair of scissors. Finally, you can install the new screen by screwing it into place. To do this, simply insert the screws into the holes in the window frame and tighten them using a screwdriver.
Measuring and Preparing the Window
Before you can put a screen back in your window, you need to measure and prepare the window opening. This will ensure that the screen fits properly and can be easily removed and replaced in the future.
Measuring the Window Opening
To measure the window opening, you will need a tape measure or a ruler. Measure the width and height of the opening, from the inside edge of the frame to the inside edge of the frame on the opposite side. Make sure to measure the opening in several places to ensure that it is square. If the opening is not square, you will need to make some adjustments to the screen before you can install it.
Once you have the measurements, you need to add 1/2 inch to both the width and height to allow for the screen to overlap the frame. This will help to keep the screen in place and prevent it from falling out.
Preparing the Window Opening
Before you install the screen, you need to clean the window opening. This will remove any dirt or debris that could prevent the screen from fitting properly. You can clean the opening with a damp cloth or a mild detergent solution. Once the opening is clean, dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth.
If the window opening is painted, you may need to sand it lightly to remove any rough spots. This will help to ensure that the screen fits snugly against the frame.
| Window Opening Size | Screen Size |
|---|---|
| 36″ x 24″ | 36.5″ x 24.5″ |
| 48″ x 36″ | 48.5″ x 36.5″ |
| 60″ x 48″ | 60.5″ x 48.5″ |
Cleaning the Window Frame
Before inserting the screen, it’s crucial to ensure the window frame is clean and free of debris. This step not only improves the screen’s fit but also prevents dirt and dust from accumulating around the edges, which can compromise the screen’s effectiveness.
Step 1: Remove Loose Debris
Start by removing any visible dirt, leaves, or cobwebs from the frame using a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment. Be gentle to avoid damaging the paint or finish.
Step 2: Wash the Frame
Use a mild detergent mixed with water to create a cleaning solution. Apply the solution to the frame using a sponge or a soft cloth. Gently scrub the frame to remove any dirt or grime. Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive sponges, as these may damage the frame’s finish.
Step 3: Rinse and Dry
Once the frame is clean, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining soap residue. Use a clean cloth to wipe away excess water and allow the frame to air dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
| Cleaning Materials | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Soft brush or vacuum cleaner | Remove loose debris |
| Mild detergent and water | Create cleaning solution |
| Sponge or soft cloth | Apply cleaning solution and scrub |
| Clean cloth | Rinse and dry |
Removing the Old Screen
Removing the old screen is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few steps:
- Locate the clips or springs that hold the screen in place. These are typically located along the edges of the frame.
- Using a flathead screwdriver or a putty knife, gently pry the clips or springs away from the frame. Be careful not to damage the frame or the screen.
- Once the clips or springs are released, carefully lift the screen out of the frame. If the screen is stuck, you may need to use a putty knife or a pry bar to gently loosen it.
Removing the Old Screen
To remove the old screen, start by identifying the type of clips or springs that are holding it in place. The most common types of clips are push-in clips, which are simply pushed into the frame, and spring clips, which are held in place by tension. Once you have identified the type of clips, you can use the appropriate tool to remove them. For push-in clips, use a flathead screwdriver or a putty knife to gently pry them out of the frame. For spring clips, use a pair of pliers to squeeze the clips together and release the tension.
Once the clips have been removed, you can carefully lift the screen out of the frame. If the screen is stuck, you may need to use a putty knife or a pry bar to gently loosen it. Be careful not to damage the frame or the screen.
| Clip Type | Removal Tool |
|---|---|
| Push-in Clips | Flathead screwdriver or putty knife |
| Spring Clips | Pliers |
Installing the New Screen
Once you have removed the old screen, it is time to install the new one. Here are the steps involved:
1. Clean the Window Frame
Before installing the new screen, it is important to clean the window frame. This will remove any dirt or debris that could prevent the screen from fitting properly.
2. Place the Screen in the Frame
To place the screen in the frame, start by aligning it with the top of the frame. Then, gently press the screen into the frame, starting from the center and working your way out.
3. Secure the Screen
Depending on the type of screen frame you have, you will need to use either screws or clips to secure the screen in place. If you are using screws, make sure to drive them in gently to avoid damaging the screen.
| Type of Frame | Method of Securing |
|---|---|
| Wood Frame | Screws |
| Metal Frame | Clips |
| Vinyl Frame | Screws or Clips |
4. Inspect the Screen
Once the screen is installed, inspect it to make sure that it fits properly and that there are no gaps. If there are any gaps, you can use weatherstripping to seal them.
Here are some additional tips for inspecting the screen:
- Look for any tears or holes in the screen.
- Check the edges of the screen to make sure that they are properly aligned with the frame.
- Open and close the window to make sure that the screen does not interfere with its operation.
Attaching the Screen Corners
Now that your screen frame is properly built and the mesh is fitted, it’s time to secure the corners to complete the screen. This is a simple but crucial step in ensuring the screen’s longevity and functionality:
-
Mark the Corner Locations: Before attaching the corners, align the screen frame over the window opening and lightly mark the locations where the corners will come into contact with the frame. This will serve as a guide for accurate corner placement.
-
Prepare the Corner Brackets: Most window screens utilize corner brackets to secure the corners. These brackets come in various shapes and sizes, so ensure you have the appropriate type for your screen. Clean and lubricate the brackets before installation.
-
Install the Corner Brackets: Carefully place the corner brackets in the marked locations, ensuring they fit snugly against the frame and mesh. Secure the brackets tightly using the provided screws or fasteners.
-
Align the Mesh Corners: Once the corner brackets are in place, gently pull the mesh corners taut and align them perfectly with the brackets. Avoid overstretching the mesh, as this could damage it.
-
Crimping the Mesh: To secure the mesh to the brackets, a specialized tool called a "crimping plier" is commonly used. This plier has a special die that compresses the metal brackets around the mesh, effectively locking it in place.
| Crimping Tools | Description |
|---|---|
| Manual Crimping Pliers | Requires hand strength to operate and offers less precision |
| Battery-Operated Crimping Tool | Convenient and less physically demanding, but can be expensive |
| Pneumatic Crimping Tool | Professional-grade tool with high power and precision, but requires an air compressor |
Gently insert the mesh into the crimping plier die and squeeze the handles to create a secure connection. Repeat this process for all four corners.
Securing the Screen along the Sides
6. **Securing the Screen along the Sides (Outside)**
a. **Locate the side rails.** There are two side rails on the window frame that will hold the screen in place. They are typically made of metal or vinyl and run vertically along the sides of the window.
b. **Insert the screen.** Carefully insert the top of the screen into the side rails. Make sure that the screen is facing the correct direction, with the mesh side facing the outside of the window.
c. **Gently push the screen down.** Once the screen is inserted into the side rails, gently push it down until it is fully seated. You may need to use a small amount of force to do this, but be careful not to damage the screen.
d. **Secure the screen with clips or screws.** Once the screen is in place, secure it with clips or screws. Most screens are secured with spring clips that snap into place. If your screen has screws, simply tighten them until the screen is securely held in place.
| Type of Secure | Description |
|---|---|
| Spring Clips | Snap into place, providing a quick and easy way to secure the screen. |
| Screws | Provide a more permanent and secure hold, but require tools to install. |
e. **Repeat for the other side.** Once the screen is secured on one side, repeat the process for the other side. Make sure that the screen is evenly spaced between the side rails.
Reinforcing the Screen with Tension Spacers
Tension spacers are small, spring-loaded devices that can be added to your window screen frame to provide additional support and prevent sagging. They are especially useful for large or heavy screens. To install tension spacers:
- Measure the length of each side of the screen frame.
- Cut the tension spacers to the same length.
- Insert the tension spacers into the appropriate slots in the screen frame, spacing them evenly.
- Tighten the tension spacers until the screen is taut.
- Check the screen for any gaps or sagging.
- If necessary, adjust the tension spacers to ensure that the screen is properly secured.
- Once the screen is properly tensioned, it can be reattached to the window frame.
| Pros of Using Tension Spacers | Cons of Using Tension Spacers |
|---|---|
| Prevents sagging | Can be difficult to install |
| Provides additional support | May not be necessary for all screens |
| Improves the appearance of the screen | Adds cost to the project |
Inserting the Pull Handles
The pull handles are small, typically plastic or metal, handles that allow you to open and close the screen. They are usually located on the sides or bottom of the screen frame.
To insert the pull handles, follow these steps:
- Locate the holes for the pull handles. There will be two holes on each side of the screen frame, or one hole on the bottom of the frame.
- Insert the pull handles into the holes. The pull handles should fit snugly into the holes.
- Secure the pull handles. Once the pull handles are inserted, they need to be secured in place. This can be done by tightening the screws on the back of the pull handles.
- Ensure the pull handles are aligned. Once the pull handles are secure, make sure that they are aligned properly. The pull handles should be parallel to each other and perpendicular to the screen frame.
Tips for inserting the pull handles:
Here are some tips for inserting the pull handles:
- If the pull handles are difficult to insert, you can use a pair of pliers to gently squeeze the handles together.
- If the pull handles are too loose, you can add a small washer to the back of the pull handles to tighten them up.
- Be careful not to overtighten the screws on the back of the pull handles. This can damage the pull handles or the screen frame.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the holes for the pull handles. |
| 2 | Insert the pull handles into the holes. |
| 3 | Secure the pull handles. |
| 4 | Ensure the pull handles are aligned. |
Locking the Screen in Place
To lock the screen firmly in place, begin by locating the locking tabs or springs along the sides of the window frame. These mechanisms usually consist of metal or plastic clips that engage with corresponding slots or holes on the screen frame.
Grasp the screen firmly with one hand and position it in the window frame. Align the tabs or springs with their respective slots or holes.
Apply gentle pressure to lock the tabs or springs. Use both hands if necessary. Ensure that all tabs or springs are engaged properly to prevent the screen from falling out.
In some cases, you may encounter additional locking mechanisms, such as pins or screws. Insert the pins or turn the screws to secure the screen securely.
Check that the screen is held firmly in place by applying a gentle pull. If the screen moves or rattles, re-adjust the tabs or springs and try again.
Locking Tabs Vs. Springs
The type of locking mechanism used will vary depending on the window and screen designs. Here’s a brief comparison of the two common types:
| Locking Tabs | Locking Springs |
|---|---|
| Metal or plastic clips that engage with slots or holes | Flexible metal coils that fit into slots or holes |
| Manually operated by pressing | Automatically engage when the screen is inserted |
| May require additional adjustment for a snug fit | Typically provide a tighter and more secure hold |
Inspecting and Adjusting for Proper Fit and Functionality
Once the screen is in place, inspect it for proper fit and functionality. Ensure that:
1. Tightness and Tension:
The screen should be taut and secure, with no visible gaps or sags. If necessary, adjust the tension using the turnbuckles or screws provided. Ensure the screen material is taut enough to prevent insects from entering but not so tight that it distorts the frame.
2. Alignment and Centering:
The screen should be centered within the frame and align evenly with the windowpanes. Check for any misalignment or gaps, and adjust the screen accordingly.
3. Track and Rollers:
If your screen uses a track and roller system, ensure the rollers move smoothly along the track without any binding or obstructions. Clean and lubricate the rollers if necessary.
4. Latch and Handle:
Check the latch or handle mechanism to ensure it functions properly. It should secure the screen firmly in place and release easily when needed.
5. Corners and Edges:
Inspect the corners and edges of the screen frame for any damage or gaps. Repair any damages, such as torn corners or loose splines, to ensure the screen’s integrity.
6. Screen Material:
Examine the screen material for any tears, holes, or damage. Replace damaged screen material promptly to prevent insects from entering.
7. Frame:
Inspect the frame for any cracks, warps, or damage. Repair any issues to ensure the screen’s structural integrity and functionality.
8. Gapping:
Check for any gaps between the screen frame and the window frame. Seal any gaps using weatherstripping or caulk to prevent insects from entering.
9. Hardware:
Ensure all the hardware used to secure the screen, such as screws, bolts, and latches, is properly tightened and secure.
10. Operation Test:
Once all adjustments and inspections are complete, test the screen’s operation by raising and lowering it. Ensure it moves smoothly, latches securely, and provides effective protection against insects.
How to Put a Screen Back in the Window
Putting a screen back in the window is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. Here are the steps:
- Open the window.
- Locate the tabs on the sides of the screen. These tabs will fit into slots on the window frame.
- Align the tabs with the slots and push the screen into place.
- Close the window.
People Also Ask
How do you put a screen back in a vinyl window?
Putting a screen back in a vinyl window is similar to putting a screen back in a wooden window. The only difference is that the tabs on the sides of the screen may be different. Some vinyl windows have tabs that are attached to the window frame, while others have tabs that are attached to the screen. If the tabs are attached to the window frame, simply align the tabs with the slots and push the screen into place. If the tabs are attached to the screen, you will need to first insert the bottom of the screen into the window frame and then push the top of the screen into place.
How do you put a screen back in a window without tabs?
If your screen does not have tabs, you can still put it back in the window by using a screwdriver or putty knife. Insert the screwdriver or putty knife into the gap between the window frame and the screen and pry the screen loose. Once the screen is loose, you can push it back into place.
How do you keep a screen in a window without tabs?
If you want to keep a screen in a window without tabs, you can use weatherstripping. Weatherstripping is a thin strip of rubber or foam that is applied to the edges of the screen. It helps to keep the screen in place and prevents drafts from entering the window.
How do you remove a screen from a window without tabs?
To remove a screen from a window without tabs, insert a screwdriver or putty knife into the gap between the window frame and the screen. Pry the screen loose and then lift it out of the window.
