How to Repair a Mesh Window Screen

Have a damaged window screen or screen door? Holes, tears and loose screening not only look bad, but can also let insects and debris into your home.

Fortunately, replacing a mesh window screen is a fairly easy DIY project. If the screen frame is still in good condition, you can usually replace just the screen mesh and spline with a few basic tools.

Here’s how to replace a typical window or door screen held in place with spline.

What You’ll Need

For most window screen repairs, you’ll need:

• Replacement screen mesh
• Screen spline
• Spline roller
• Small flat-head screwdriver or pick
• Utility knife or scissors
• Tape or small clamps, if needed

Window screen repair kits are also available that include several of the items needed for the project.

Window Screen Repair Kit  |  Window Screen Spline  |  Replacement Window Screen

Tip: Before buying new spline, check the diameter of your existing spline. Using the correct size helps the new screen stay securely in the frame.

Step 1: Remove the Old Screen and Spline

Lay the screen frame on a flat work surface.

Find the end of the rubber or plastic spline that holds the screen in the channel around the frame. Use a small flat-head screwdriver or pick to carefully lift the end of the spline and pull it out of the channel.

Once the spline is removed, lift out the old screen material.

If you’re unsure what size replacement spline to purchase, save a piece of the old spline so you can compare the size.

Step 2: Cut the New Screen Mesh

Place the screen frame on a flat surface and roll the new mesh over it.

Cut the replacement screen approximately 2 inches larger than the frame on each side. The extra material makes it easier to position and secure the screen before trimming it later.

Step 3: Position the New Screen

Center the new screen over the frame, making sure you have plenty of overlap on all four sides.

If your replacement screen came on a roll and wants to curl back up, laying it with the curved side facing down can make it easier to work with.

Straighten the mesh and use tape or small clamps to help hold it in position if necessary.

The screen should be smooth and reasonably taut, but don’t pull it so tightly that you distort or bow the frame.

Step 4: Install the New Spline

Starting along one side of the frame, position the spline over the screen and frame groove.

Use a spline roller to press the spline and screen mesh into the channel. Continue working your way around the frame, keeping the screen smooth as you go.

Pay particular attention to the corners and periodically check that the screen isn’t developing wrinkles or pulling the frame out of shape.

Once you’ve worked around the entire frame, trim the excess spline.

Step 5: Trim the Excess Screen

Once the spline is completely installed, carefully trim away the excess screen material.

Using a sharp utility knife, cut along the outside edge of the spline. Angle the blade away from the finished screen to reduce the chance of accidentally cutting the new mesh or spline.

Your repaired screen can now be reinstalled in the window or door.

What Type of Window Screen Should You Use?

Fiberglass mesh is one of the most common choices for replacement window screens because it’s affordable and easy to work with.

However, there are several other options depending on where the screen will be used:

• Fiberglass screen
• Aluminum screen
• Pet-resistant screen
• High-visibility screen
• Solar screen
• No-see-um screen
• Bronze screen
• Stainless steel screen mesh

For a typical household window, standard fiberglass screen is usually an easy material for a DIY replacement. Doors, pet areas and other higher-wear locations may benefit from a heavier-duty screen.

Common Window Screen Repair Questions

Can You Replace a Window Screen Yourself?

Yes. If the frame is still in good condition, replacing the screen mesh and spline is usually a straightforward DIY project that requires only a few basic tools.

Can You Reuse the Old Window Screen Spline?

Sometimes, but spline can become brittle, stretched or damaged with age. Since replacement spline is inexpensive, replacing it along with the screen is often worthwhile.

What Size Window Screen Spline Do I Need?

Spline comes in different diameters, and the correct size depends on the frame and screen material. Save a piece of the original spline and compare its diameter when purchasing a replacement.

How Tight Should a Replacement Window Screen Be?

The screen should be smooth and taut enough to eliminate wrinkles, but it shouldn’t be stretched so tightly that it bends or distorts the frame.

Is Fiberglass or Aluminum Window Screen Better?

Fiberglass is inexpensive, flexible and generally easier for DIY installation. Aluminum screen is more rigid and durable but can crease or dent during installation. The better choice depends on where the screen will be used.

A Simple DIY Window Screen Repair

Replacing a torn or damaged mesh window screen is an inexpensive home repair that can make a noticeable difference. With replacement mesh, spline and a spline roller, most standard window screens can be repaired without replacing the entire frame.

Taking your time while installing the spline and keeping the screen evenly positioned are the keys to getting a smooth, professional-looking result.