How to Build Window Screens

It's not unusual to lose a few window screens from damage. You could purchase new window screens,but what if your window is a custom size? In this case, or if you have a small budget, building your own window screens is a good option. This project is so common that there are window screen kits you can purchase. These kits are a good idea, because they will include everything that you need, minus a few tools, to complete the job.

Step 1: Measure the exterior of the window frame to determine the required size of the window screen. Be as exact as possible to insure a tightly fitting screen: too loose and the screen won't keep out insects.

Step 2: Open your window screen kit and locate the aluminum corners and the aluminum framing. Place one corner into the end of one of the pieces of the aluminum framing.

Step 3: Measure the distance from the edge of the aluminum corner to where it meets the end of the aluminum framing. Half to 5/8 of an inch are common results.

Step 4: Subtract the width of the aluminum corner from necessary width of the window screen. Use a measuring tape, starting at the aluminum corner and make a cut line with a grease pencil.

Step 5: Cut the piece of aluminum framing with hack saw. Insert another aluminum corner into the cut end. Check the bottom of the frame to make sure it fits properly in the bottom of the window. If it does, remove both of the corner pieces, then use the piece of aluminum framing as a measure to cut a second, identical piece.

Step 6: Use the same method to cut the other pair of pieces of aluminum framing that will make the frame.

TIP: For particularly wide or tall windows, you may need an additional support piece at the center of the screen. Consult the directions of your window screen kit for more directions. Typically, if your window is less than 40 inch in either direction, you will not need additional support.

Step 7: Put together the frame, using the aluminum corners to construct a rectangle.

Step 8: Cut a piece of window screen to fit the frame. Allow two inches around the perimeter of the window frame.

Step 9: Secure the window screen to the window frame with spline. Start one end, and using a spline tool force the spline into the groove in the window frame, trapping the screen between the two. Once you have finished one side, do the opposite side. Then tackle the other sides. This will prevent unattractive puckering.

Step 10: Trim the excess window screen closely to the spline using a utility knife.