9 Simple Steps to Install a Window Screen from Inside

Window screen installation

If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about your window screens very often. But when they get damaged or dirty, it can make a big difference in the comfort of your home. A damaged screen can let in bugs, dust, and pollen. $title$

A dirty screen can block out the light and make your home feel dark and dingy. The good news is that replacing a window screen is a relatively easy and inexpensive project that you can do yourself. In this article, we’ll show you how to put a window screen in from the inside, so you don’t have to climb up on a ladder or hire a professional.

Before you start, you’ll need to gather a few supplies. You’ll need a new window screen, a spline roller, and a utility knife. You can find all of these supplies at your local hardware store. Once you have your supplies, you’re ready to get started.

Removing the Old Window Screen

1. Assess the Window Screen’s Condition and Accessibility: Before removing the old window screen, carefully inspect its condition. Determine if it’s simply torn or damaged, or if the frame is broken or loose. Also, consider the type of window screen installed. Some screens are attached with screws or nails, while others utilize spring clips or friction fits.

2. Seek Interior Access: Removing the window screen from the inside requires accessing the window from the interior of the building. If the window doesn’t open inwards, you will need to use a ladder or step stool to reach the top of the window frame.

3. Inspect the Screen’s Attachment Method: Locate the points where the screen is attached to the window frame. Screws or nails are typically visible and can be easily removed with a screwdriver or nail puller. Spring clips, on the other hand, require more dexterity. Look for small metal clips that hold the screen in place and gently pry them open using a screwdriver or knife.

Attachment Method	Removal Technique
Screws	Unscrew using a screwdriver
Nails	Pull out using a nail puller
Spring Clips	Pry open gently using a screwdriver or knife
Friction Fit	Pull the screen out of the frame with a gentle tug

Securing the Top and Bottom Spline

The top and bottom splines are the most important parts of securing your window screen, as they hold it in place. To secure them, you’ll need a spline roller.

1. Insert the Spline

Start by inserting the spline into the channel at the top of the screen frame. Make sure the spline is facing the correct direction, with the pointed end facing towards the frame.

2. Roll the Spline

Using the spline roller, gently roll the spline into the channel. Start from the center and work your way outwards, applying even pressure.

3. Check the Splines

Once the spline is in place, use your fingers to check that it is seated properly in the channel. The spline should be snug but not overly tight.

4. Inspect the Screen

Inspect the screen to make sure it is secure and taut. The screen should not sag or bow when you touch it. If it does, adjust the spline tension by rolling it in or out as needed.

Here’s a table summarizing the steps for securing the top and bottom splines:

Step	Description
1	Insert the spline into the channel at the top of the screen frame
2	Roll the spline into the channel using a spline roller
3	Check the splines to make sure they are seated properly
4	Inspect the screen to make sure it is secure and taut

Installing the Window Screen Rollers

Determining the Roller Size

Before purchasing new rollers, measure the length of the screen tension springs. The roller’s size should correspond to the spring length. A common roller size for standard windows is 1/2 inch.

Inserting the Rollers

1. Remove the old rollers by gently pulling them out of the track.
2. Insert the new rollers into the track, starting from one end.
3. Press each roller firmly into place, ensuring it is seated securely.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for all rollers.

Positioning the Rollers

The rollers should be positioned uniformly along the track. To ensure even tension, space them evenly between the spring anchors and the center of the track. As a guideline, for a 36-inch wide window, place the rollers 9 inches apart.

Window Width	Roller Spacing
24 inches	6 inches
36 inches	9 inches
48 inches	12 inches

Spring Tension Adjustment

Once the rollers are in place, adjust the tension of the screen springs. Use a screwdriver or hex key to turn the tension adjustment screw on each spring. Tightening the screw increases tension, while loosening it decreases tension. Aim for enough tension to keep the screen taut but not so much that it is difficult to roll up or down.

Checking the Fit and Performance

Once the screen is installed, it’s crucial to check its fit and performance:

1. Alignment and Gaps

Inspect the screen’s alignment with the window frame. There should be no gaps or overlaps around the edges. If present, make minor adjustments to ensure a secure fit.

2. Screen Tension

Ensure that the screen material is taut. A loose screen will not effectively keep out insects or debris. If necessary, adjust the tension by tightening the spring clips or screws.

3. Frame Integrity

Examine the window frame for any damage or deterioration. A damaged frame can compromise the screen’s performance. If any issues are found, repair them before using the screen.

4. Latch Operation

Test the screen’s latch to ensure it operates smoothly. The latch should securely hold the screen in place, preventing it from rattling or falling out of place.

5. Airflow and Visibility

Check that the screen does not significantly obstruct airflow or visibility. A fine-mesh screen will provide better protection while still allowing air to circulate.

6. Insect Resistance

To ensure the screen effectively keeps out insects, conduct a simple test. Place a small insect on the outside of the screen and observe if it can penetrate the mesh.

7. Weather Resistance

If the screen is intended for outdoor use, it should have weather-resistant properties. Check the screen material’s UV resistance, water repellency, and durability to ensure it can withstand various weather conditions.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your window screen is properly installed and performing optimally, providing protection from insects, debris, and enhancing airflow and visibility.

Tightening the Spline

Once the spline is inserted, it’s time to tighten it. This step is crucial to ensuring that the screen stays in place and doesn’t sag. To tighten the spline, you’ll need a spline tool, which is a small, handheld device with a sharp point.

To use the spline tool, insert the point into the groove between the frame and the screen. Then, pull the tool along the groove, pressing down firmly to push the spline into place. As you pull the tool, you’ll feel the spline tightening against the frame and the screen.

Continue pulling the tool along the groove until you reach the end of the spline. Once you’ve tightened the spline all the way around, use a pair of scissors to trim off any excess.

To ensure a professional-looking finish, you can use a spline roller to roll over the tightened spline. This will help to smooth out the spline and give it a more finished appearance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Unable to fit the screen into the frame

Ensure that the screen is the correct size for the window frame. If it’s too large, trim it carefully with a utility knife. If it’s too small, you may need to replace it with a larger screen.

Screen is not staying in place

Check for any debris or obstacles in the window frame that may be preventing the screen from fitting snugly. Clean or remove any obstructions and try again. If the screen is still loose, you may need to adjust the tension on the springs or add additional clips or screws.

Edges of the screen are sagging

If the edges of the screen are sagging, it may be because the screen material is too loose. To fix this, you can either tighten the springs or add some additional clips or screws to hold the material in place.

Screen is torn or damaged

If the screen is torn or damaged, you will need to replace it. You can purchase replacement screens at most hardware stores. To replace the screen, simply remove the old screen from the frame and insert the new screen. Trim any excess material around the edges of the frame and secure it with clips or screws.

Screen is difficult to remove

If the screen is difficult to remove, it may be because the springs are too tight. To loosen the springs, simply use a screwdriver to turn them counterclockwise. Once the springs are loose, you should be able to remove the screen easily.

Screen keeps falling out

If the screen keeps falling out, it may be because the clips or screws are not tight enough. To fix this, simply tighten the clips or screws until the screen is held securely in place.

Screen is rattling

If the screen is rattling, it may be because the frame is not square. To fix this, you can either adjust the frame until it is square or add some additional clips or screws to hold the frame in place.

Screen is too dark

If the screen is too dark, it may be because the screen material is too thick. To fix this, you can replace the screen with a lighter material.

Screen is blocking the view

If the screen is blocking the view, it may be because the screen is too large. To fix this, you can trim the screen down to a smaller size.

Installing a Window Screen from Inside

Installing a window screen from inside is a simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes. By following these steps, you can ensure that your window screen is installed correctly and looks great.

1. Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, you will need to gather the following materials:

Window screen
Screen spline
Spline tool
Scissors

2. Prepare the Window Frame

Once you have gathered your materials, you need to prepare the window frame. This involves removing any old screens or debris from the frame.

3. Measure and Cut the Screen

The next step is to measure and cut the screen to fit the window frame. To do this, measure the width and height of the frame and add 2 inches to each measurement. Cut the screen to the desired size.

4. Apply the Spline

Once you have cut the screen, you need to apply the spline. Spline is a thin, flexible material that holds the screen in place. Start by inserting the spline into the groove around the edge of the frame. Use the spline tool to press the spline into place.

5. Trim the Excess Spline

Once the spline is in place, you need to trim the excess. Use scissors to cut the spline flush with the edge of the frame.

6. Check the Fit

Once the screen is installed, check the fit. Make sure that the screen is taut and that there are no gaps around the edges.

Tips for a Professional-Looking Window Screen Installation

1. Use a Sharp Spline Tool

A sharp spline tool will make it easier to insert the spline into the groove. If your spline tool is dull, it can damage the screen.

2. Apply Even Pressure When Inserting the Spline

When inserting the spline, apply even pressure around the entire frame. This will help to ensure that the screen is taut and that there are no gaps.

3. Trim the Excess Spline Flush with the Frame

When trimming the excess spline, use scissors to cut it flush with the edge of the frame. This will give your window screen a professional-looking finish.

4. Check the Fit Before You Leave