Know-How
How to Replace a Window Screen
Beginner45 minutesHome Repair

How to Replace a Window Screen

Contents

1Remove the screen frame2Remove the old spline and mesh3Position the new mesh4Press the spline into the channel5Trim the excess mesh

Tools & Materials

🪛

Flathead screwdriver

Used to pry the old spline out of the frame groove.

⚙️

Spline roller tool

A dual-wheeled tool used to press the new spline into the frame channel.

🔪

Utility knife

Used to trim excess screen mesh and spline for a clean finish.

🕸️

Replacement screen mesh

Fiberglass or aluminum mesh sized slightly larger than your frame.

➰

New screen spline

Rubber or vinyl cord that secures the mesh into the frame.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle old screen wire with care, as frayed edges can be sharp and cause cuts.
  • Ensure the window frame is secure and stable while working to prevent it from falling.
  • Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris or snapping spline tools.
Views0
Likes0
Steps5
DIYHome ImprovementWindow RepairMaintenanceScreen Replacement
More Guides

Restore your window's functionality and keep pests out by replacing a damaged screen mesh. This guide walks you through removing the old material and installing a fresh, taut screen using basic household tools.

Remove the screen frame
1

Remove the screen frame

5 minutes

Unlatch and carefully lift the screen frame out of the window tracks.

Place the frame on a flat, clean surface like a workbench or table. Ensure the work area is well-lit so you can clearly see the spline channel.

Be cautious when removing the frame to avoid bending the metal or plastic edges.

Mark the top of the frame with a piece of tape if the window is not perfectly square to ensure proper reinstallation.

2

Remove the old spline and mesh

10 minutes

Use a flathead screwdriver to pry up the end of the old spline and pull it out of the groove.

Once the spline is removed, the old screen mesh will fall away easily. Dispose of the old mesh and spline properly.

Watch out for sharp wire edges if you are removing an old aluminum screen.

If the spline is brittle, pull slowly to prevent it from snapping inside the channel.

Position the new mesh
3

Position the new mesh

5 minutes

Lay the new screen mesh over the frame so it overlaps the edges by at least an inch on all sides.

Ensure the mesh is centered and lies flat without wrinkles. The tension of the mesh will be adjusted in the next step.

Use small clamps or tape to hold the mesh in place while you begin the spline installation.

Press the spline into the channel
4

Press the spline into the channel

15 minutes

Use the convex wheel of the spline roller tool to push the spline and mesh into the groove.

Start at one corner and work your way around the frame. Keep the mesh taut as you press the spline in to avoid sagging.

Do not pull the mesh too tight, or the frame may bow or warp.

Use the concave wheel to finish the spline once it is seated in the groove for a secure fit.

Trim the excess mesh
5

Trim the excess mesh

5 minutes

Use a sharp utility knife to trim the excess screen mesh along the outside edge of the spline channel.

Hold the knife blade at a slight angle against the frame edge for a clean, professional cut. Ensure the knife is sharp to avoid tearing the mesh.

Be extremely careful not to cut your fingers or damage the window frame finish.

Change your utility blade if it feels dull to ensure a smooth cut through the fiberglass.

Pro Tips

  • ●Always buy a spline diameter slightly smaller than the channel width for an easier fit.
  • ●If your frame is older and warped, use a slightly thicker spline to ensure the mesh stays tight.
  • ●Clean the frame groove with a stiff brush before installing new mesh to remove debris.
  • ●Work in a warm room; the screen mesh is more pliable and easier to stretch when not cold.