Handyman

Window Screen Repair: Fixing Tears and Holes

March 20, 2025
Handyman Team
4 min read
Window Screen Repair: Fixing Tears and Holes

A torn or damaged window screen can let in pesky insects and detract from your home's appearance. The good news is that most screen repairs are simple and inexpensive DIY projects that you can complete in under an hour. Whether you have a small hole or need to replace the entire screen, here’s how to do it.

🩹 Method 1: Patching a Small Hole

For tiny holes or tears, a simple patch is the quickest fix.

Clear Nail Polish: For a pinprick-sized hole, a small dab of clear nail polish is often enough to seal it and prevent it from getting larger.
patch
Screen Patch Kits: For slightly larger holes, you can buy self-adhesive screen patches. Just clean the area, peel the backing, and press the patch firmly over the hole on both sides.

🔧 Method 2: Replacing the Entire Screen Mesh

For large tears or old, brittle screens, replacing the entire mesh is the best solution. You'll need a roll of new screen material and a tool called a spline roller.

1
Remove the Frame: Take the screen frame out of the window.
2
Remove the Old Spline: Use a small screwdriver or awl to pry up one end of the rubber cord (the spline) that holds the screen in the frame's channel. Pull the old spline and screen out.
3
Lay the New Screen: Lay the new screen mesh over the frame, ensuring it overlaps the channel on all sides by at least an inch.
4
Install the New Spline: Starting at a corner, use the convex wheel of the spline roller to gently press the screen into the channel. Then, use the concave wheel to press the new spline firmly into the channel over the screen, locking it in place.
5
Trim the Excess: Use a sharp utility knife to carefully trim the excess screen mesh from the outside of the spline.

When installing the new screen, pull it taut but not too tight. Over-tightening can cause the frame to bow or warp.

Don't let torn screens ruin your fresh air. If you don't have the time or tools for the job, the handyman team at The Box Advantage Group can repair or replace your window screens quickly and affordably. Contact us to get started.

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The Box Advantage Group - Professional Service Solutions