If the arrival of cooler temperatures has had you reaching to open your windows only to realize that the screens aren’t keeping the bugs out, you’re not alone. Although a window lasts a decade or more, window screens may only last a few years before they need some sort of repair. If you’re trying to figure out what to do about yours, here are a few bits of helpful information from your local window company.
Replacing the Screen is Easy
If you just have a few screens with tears or holes, replacing the screen is easy. Your local home improvement store has everything you need which includes:
- Spline – The rubber around the screen that holds it tightly in the frame. (We suggest you take your current spline to ensure you get the right replacement size).
- Screen Material – make sure to choose an insect screen – that means the holes are small enough to keep most insects out.
- Spline Tool – this will help you put the spline into the small opening quickly and efficiently.
- Cutting Instrument – sharp scissors or a utility knife both work well.
Measure and cut the screen leaving 2-3” on each side to make the job as easy as possible. Lay in in and start putting the spline in. Just make sure to keep the new screen taunt. There are many YouTube videos and even a Wikihow page to help further.
Clean Screens Improve Curb Appeal
Screens collect dust, pollen and dirt that’s blowing around outside. That’s a big reason you need to clean them from time to time. Leaving your window screens in the windows helps keep that off the windows. You’ll also find that clean screens let in more light which is a good thing during our gloomy winters.
Use about ¼ cup dish soap to each half gallon of water and a soft bristle brush. Rinse with your hose but don’t use too high pressure or you’ll end up pulling the screen out of the spline. We advise doing this on a sunny day to help with drying time.
They Add Some Level of Safety
A small hole invites a child to stick their finger through. Once they have their finger in that small hole, chances are good they’re going to make it bigger. Perhaps even big enough to stick their head through. From there it’s not hard to imagine them going out the window. A screen isn’t meant to protect a child from falling out, but a screen can deter a curious child from leaning out. Some windows have built in safety that prevent them from being opened more than a few inches for safety. If you’re interested in that feature, you’ll need new windows and should contact your local window company.
Do More Than Your Screens Need Replacing?
Sometimes window screens aren’t the only part of your window in need of replacing. If you realize that it’s not just the screens and that your home needs new windows, call your local window company, Blair Windows & Doors for a free estimate. We’ll help you choose the right new windows for your home and budget and, of course, we’ll provide the screens with them! Call (317) 356-4666 or fill out our contact form today.
