Tools and Materials
Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.
Select a Screen
Screen Materials
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Aluminum screen fabric is durable, long lasting and sag-resistant. It works for most screen projects and tends to be less visible than other screen types. You can find aluminum screens in bright or charcoal/black finishes.
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Fiberglass screen fabric is easier to install than aluminum and doesn’t crease. Fiberglass works for most screen projects and is available in gray and charcoal/black finishes.
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Polyester screen fabric is heavier and more durable than fiberglass.
Screen Types and Features
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Some lightweight screens are nearly invisible from the outside, helping improve your curb appeal. These screens offer better visibility and allow more natural light and airflow than standard screens.
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Screens for pools, porches and patios are available in larger widths and designed to be strong enough to enclose large openings.
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Screens designed to block heat and glare from the sun are more energy efficient and protect your curtains and carpets from fading. They also provide privacy during the daytime.
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You can also find extra-strong screens designed to resist damage from household pets.
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Tightly woven screens keep out tiny insects, such as gnats and sand flies.
Black/charcoal screening helps reduce glare and offers the best outdoor visibility.
Replace the Spline or Screen Frame
If you’re fixing a screen and have an existing frame, you’ll need to replace the spline — the flexible cord that holds the screen in place. If you don’t have an existing screen frame, you’ll need to build a new one. We walk you through both options below.
Use the Existing Frame
The spline holds the screen in place when rolled into the groove, or channel, of the screen frame with a screen tool. If you have bright aluminum or gray fiberglass, use gray spline. For charcoal-colored fiberglass and aluminum, use black spline. You can
determine the diameter of the spline you need based on the size of the grooves in the screen frame. In many cases, the diameter of the spline should match the size of the groove. Some screens made with a thick fabric — such as screens that are resistant to wear and tear caused by pets, extra-strength screens and sun-blocking screens — may require spline that’s one size smaller. If you’re unsure what size spline you need, just match the size of your old spline. You can also find spline multi-packs that include several common sizes.
If you purchase spline that’s slightly too large, you can stretch it thinner. Simply hold one end and pull gently as you roll it into the channel. Once in place, it’ll return to its original shape for greater holding power.
Instructions
Build a New Frame
To assemble a new frame, you’ll need four screen corners that slide into the aluminum frame pieces to hold them together.
Hold your screen frame in the window frame with retention hardware, such as top-tension springs, nylon turn buttons, screen frame hangers or wire loop latches. If in doubt, purchase top-tension springs, which are the easiest to install and don’t require drilling into your window frame.
