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In order to replace the screen on a patio door, it is not necessary to have the skills of a professional repairman. The task requires only a few inexpensive, easily accessible tools and supplies.
Imagine you have a tear on your mesh screen on the door to your patio, creating a hole that is not only unattractive but also leaves space for mosquitoes, gnats, and flies to enter and bring discomfort. Replacing the screen becomes a big priority. Luckily! It's not difficult.
Follow our guidelines on how to repair a screen door to get the job done quickly.
Tools Required
Here is a list of tools and materials you will require to repair your screen door:
- Screen
- Spline
- Spline roller
- Screwdriver
- Utility knife
- Pliers
- Needle-nose pliers
Step 1: Remove The Screen Door
The first task you need to get done is to remove the screen door from the door frame. Because the door is hung on a flexible roller, lift the frame to the point that the bottom side of the rollers is seen through the lip and lower the door from underneath.
Step 2: Choose Replacement Screen Materials
There are two main types of screen replacement materials: wire and fiberglass. Both are available in black, white, or charcoal shades. (readily available at any hardware store)
There are also unique fabrications, such as wire mesh with small holes designed to keep out "no-see-ums" and a heavier-duty fiberglass "pet" option.
The typical patio-door roll measures 36x84 inches, but smaller and larger rolls are also available.
The second choice is the screen spline, flexible tubing that keeps the screen in the right position. Available in rolls and various widths and colors, the spline sits between the mesh screen and forms a narrow groove on the edges of the frame. In the case of a pet mesh, pick the smallest gauge as the pet mesh has an extra thick screen that needs to fit comfortably into the groove.
Before starting working, grab a spline roller. This is the tool used to place the spline in the door's groove. For small jobs or only one usage, the plastic version is sufficient. However, if you have several doors and window screens that you want to replace, you might want to purchase the wooden one.
Tip: Having additional tools, such as a slim regular screwdriver, kitchen knife with a new blade, and needle-nosed different pliers, come in handy.
Step 3: Remove The Spline and Clean The Door
Place the screwdriver tip into one side of the door frame, and pull out the old spline material using the pliers. Take care that you do not bend the steel/metal edge in the groove. After taking out the old spline and the damaged screen, wash the door frame thoroughly.
Step 4: Push The Replacement Spline and Screen Into The Door Groove Using a Spline Roller
Now that you've removed the old screen unroll the new fiberglass screen carefully onto the door. Be sure that it covers all the edges. Then, beginning from one corner to the other, utilize the concave side of the spline roll to move the screen and spline into the metal groove gently.
In the case, you notice that the mesh isn't moving uniformly. Don't panic! Carefully remove the screen and spline, re-seat the screen onto the frame, and then try again. In the second attempt, place light clamps around the corners to secure the screen in its place, and put hands firmly on the frame to prevent the mesh from moving.
Step 5: Trim Away Excess Screen Material and Spline
Once the screen and spline are set on all four sides, use the convex tip of the roller to securely and firmly push everything in position. With the use of a utility knife, cut off the screen material. The easiest and quickest way to accomplish it is to pull the excess screen away from the door while you move the knife slowly across the edges.
Step 6: Add the Door Handle and Re-Install the Door
Then, put the handle to the door with a screwdriver and hang the door on the tracks.
Step 7: Enjoy The Fresh Air
Now that you’ve finished reinstalling, let in the fresh air.
Isn't it so exciting to be able to open your back screen door during the summer months! There's nothing better than the fresh breeze that blows into your bedroom while relaxing at home.
At maximum, it will take you approximately 15-20 minutes to finish the project. That's right! It's that easy and short.
Arent, you angry and upset with yourself for putting away this task for so long? Not anymore, now take this off of your house's "to-do" list following our guide. If you have all the necessary materials available, we guarantee you will be able to finish this project quickly.
