If you’re looking for a cost-effective and simple way to keep bugs and other pests out of your home, installing window screens is a great option. And while it may seem like a daunting task, putting in a window screen from the inside is actually quite simple. With a few basic tools and a little bit of patience, you can have your window screens installed in no time.
One of the best things about installing window screens from the inside is that you don’t need any special tools or equipment. All you need is a screwdriver, a utility knife, and a pair of pliers. You also need to make sure that you have the correct size window screens for your windows. To determine the size of the window screens you need, simply measure the height and width of your windows and add 2 inches to each measurement. This will give you the size of the window screens you need to purchase.
Once you have the necessary tools and materials, you can begin installing the window screens. To start, remove the old window screens from the windows. If the old window screens are held in place by screws, simply unscrew them. If the old window screens are held in place by nails, use a hammer and nail to remove them. Once the old window screens are removed, clean the window frames with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Next, place the new window screens in the window frames and secure them with screws or nails. Make sure that the window screens are tight and secure, but not so tight that they cannot be opened or closed.
Gather Essential Tools and Materials
Tools:
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Phillips head screwdriver | For removing old screws and installing new ones. |
| Flathead screwdriver | For prying open the window frame and removing old screen clips. |
| Utility knife | For cutting excess screen material. |
| Roll of spline | A thin, flexible cord that holds the screen fabric in place. |
| Spline roller | A specialized tool that rolls the spline into place. |
Materials:
In addition to the tools listed above, you will need the following materials:
- Window screen fabric
- Screen clips (if replacing existing clips)
- Spacers (if installing a new screen)
The specific materials you need will depend on the type of window and screen you have. Before you begin, make sure you have all of the necessary tools and materials.
Position the Screen Inside the Frame
To position the screen inside the frame, first, locate the top corners of the frame and align the screen’s top edge with them. Ensure that the screen is facing the inside of the window, with the edges tucked into the frame’s grooves. As you move down the sides of the frame, make sure to create an even tension on the screen by pulling it taut while inserting it into the grooves. Use a rubber mallet or a small hammer wrapped in a cloth to gently tap the screen into place, especially at the corners. Be careful not to hit the screen too hard, as you could damage it. Once the screen is completely secured in the frame, you may need to trim any excess material around the edges using a utility knife or scissors.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to position the screen inside the frame:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the top corners of the frame and align the screen’s top edge with them. |
| 2 | Ensure that the screen is facing the inside of the window, with the edges tucked into the frame’s grooves. |
| 3 | As you move down the sides of the frame, make sure to create an even tension on the screen by pulling it taut while inserting it into the grooves. Use a rubber mallet or a small hammer wrapped in a cloth to gently tap the screen into place, especially at the corners. |
| 4 | Once the screen is completely secured in the frame, you may need to trim any excess material around the edges using a utility knife or scissors. |
Secure the Top and Bottom
Now that the side channels are in place, it’s time to secure the top and bottom. To do this, you’ll need to use the provided top and bottom clips. The top clips will go on the top of the screen, and the bottom clips will go on the bottom of the screen.
To install the top clips, first, insert the clip into the top channel of the screen. Then, push the clip up until it snaps into place. Repeat this process for all of the top clips.
To install the bottom clips, insert the clip into the bottom channel of the screen and push it down until it snaps into place. Repeat this process for all of the bottom clips.
Additional Tips for Securing the Top and Bottom
Here are a few additional tips for securing the top and bottom of your window screen:
- Make sure that the clips are snapped in securely. If they are not, the screen could come loose and fall out.
- If you have a large window, you may need to use additional clips to secure the top and bottom of the screen.
- You can also use a screwdriver to tighten the clips if they are loose.
Insert Tension Rods for Sides
Step 5: Fine-tuning for a Snug Fit
Once the tension rods are secured on all sides, inspect the screen for any loose areas or gaps. To ensure a snug fit and prevent bugs from entering, follow these tips:
- Adjust the Upper Rods: Push the upper rods up slightly to create a gentle curve in the screen. This will help keep the screen taut and in place.
- Tighten the Side Rods: Use a wrench or pliers to tighten the screws on the side rods. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could damage the screen.
- Check for Gaps: Inspect the edges of the screen for any gaps between the screen and the window frame. If there are any gaps, use a piece of weatherstripping or a thin layer of silicone caulk to fill them.
| Potential Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Loose screen in corners | Push up the upper rods and tighten the side rods. |
| Gaps around the edges | Inspect for gaps and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk. |
| Screen bulging in the center | Tighten the side rods until the screen is taut but not too tight. |
Check for Alignment and Tension
Once the screen is fully inserted into the window frame, it’s crucial to check for proper alignment and tension. This will ensure that the screen is securely held in place and functioning effectively.
Steps to Check Alignment and Tension:
1. Inspect Visual Alignment
Stand inside the house and look at the screen from the exterior. Verify that the screen is centered within the window frame and parallel to the edges. If any discrepancies are noted, adjust the screen’s position accordingly.
2. Test for Loose Corners
Grasp each corner of the screen firmly and gently push or pull. If any corners are loose or move excessively, tighten the tension by rotating the appropriate corner clips clockwise. Continue this process until all corners are snugly secured.
3. Ensure Proper Tension
To check the overall tension of the screen, place your hand in the middle of the screen and gently press. The screen should exhibit slight resistance but should not bend excessively. If the screen feels too loose, tighten the tension by rotating the center clips clockwise. Conversely, if the screen is too tight, loosen the center clips slightly by turning them counterclockwise.
4. Recheck for Alignment
After adjusting the tension, recheck the visual alignment of the screen. Ensure that it remains centered and parallel within the window frame. Make any necessary adjustments as per the initial inspection.
5. Secure Corner Clips
Once the alignment and tension are satisfactory, double-check that all corner clips are properly secured. Tighten any loose clips by rotating them clockwise until they are firmly in place.
6. Final Inspection
With all adjustments complete, stand outside the house and observe the screen from the exterior. Ensure that the screen is well-positioned, taut, and free from any visible gaps or distortions. If any issues are identified, repeat the aforementioned steps to fine-tune the screen’s installation until it meets the desired specifications.
Trim Excess Screen Material
Once the screen is in place and the spline is firmly seated in the groove, it’s time to trim the excess screen material. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you do it accurately:
1. Use a Utility Knife for Precision
For clean, precise cuts, opt for a sharp utility knife. Its slim profile allows for more controlled cutting than bulkier tools like scissors.
2. Guide the Knife with a Ruler for Straight Cuts
To ensure straight lines, use a ruler as a guide when trimming the excess screen material. Place the ruler along the edge of the screen frame and carefully guide the utility knife along it.
3. Cut Slightly Inside the Groove
Avoid cutting the screen too close to the edges. Instead, trim it approximately 1/16 inch (1.5 millimeters) inside the groove. This helps prevent fraying and ensures a snug fit.
4. Hold the Screen Firmly
While trimming, hold the screen firmly in place. This prevents the screen from shifting and ensures accurate cuts.
5. Check for Excess Spline
Sometimes, excess spline may protrude from the groove after the screen is installed. Carefully remove any excess spline using a pair of pliers or a flathead screwdriver.
6. Avoid Touching the Screen with Your Fingers
Touching the new screen with your bare fingers can transfer dirt and oils, potentially weakening the screen. Use clean gloves or a soft cloth to handle the screen during installation.
7. Clean Up Debris
After trimming the screen and removing excess spline, clean up any debris or shavings. Use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner to remove loose particles that could obstruct the spline’s proper seating.
Final Adjustments and Securing
1. Check the Fit and Adjust
Ensure the screen fits snugly within the window frame without any gaps or overlaps. If necessary, adjust the tension of the springs or the frame’s position to achieve a perfect fit.
2. Trim Excess Screening
Using a sharp utility knife, carefully trim any excess screening around the edges of the frame. Leave a small amount of overlap to prevent the screen from sagging or becoming loose over time.
3. Install the Stops
Locate the pre-drilled holes or notches on the sides of the frame. Insert the stops (small plastic or metal clips) into these holes to secure the screen in place.
4. Tension the Springs
Check the tension of the springs by pushing on the screen. It should be taut enough to prevent insects from entering but not so tight that it becomes difficult to operate. Adjust the tension as needed by using a screwdriver to turn the spring screws.
5. Install the Latch
If your window has a latch, locate the corresponding hole on the screen frame. Insert the latch and secure it with a screwdriver or screw.
6. Check for Stability
Operate the window with the screen installed to ensure it opens and closes smoothly. The screen should not rattle or move excessively.
7. Inspect for Gaps
Close the window and carefully inspect the edges of the screen for any gaps. If you find any gaps, use a touch of clear silicone sealant to fill them and prevent insects from entering.
8. Finishing Touches
Clean the window screen with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. You may also consider applying a light coating of screen protector to extend the life of the screen and protect it from UV rays.
| Tools Required |
|---|
| Utility knife |
| Screwdriver |
| Clear silicone sealant (optional) |
Inspect and Clean
Inspect the window screen for any tears or holes. If you find any, repair them using a patch kit or screen tape. Repair any damaged or bent corners by bending them back into place or using a pair of pliers. Wipe down the screen with a damp cloth or use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove any dust or debris.
REMOVING THE OLD SCREEN
| Outside | Inside |
|---|---|
| 1. Open the window and lift the bottom of the screen upward, away from the window frame. | 1. Pull the screen toward you and lift it up and out of the top track. |
| 2. Pull the screen toward you until the top of the screen clears the top track. | 2. Rotate the screen so the bottom of the screen is facing you. |
| 3. Lift the screen out of the window frame and set it aside. | 3. Pull the screen toward you and lift it up and over the window frame. |
INSTALLING THE NEW SCREEN
| Outside | Inside |
|---|---|
| 1. Hold the screen in place against the window frame and insert the bottom of the screen into the bottom track. | 1. Hold the screen at a slight angle and insert the bottom of the screen into the bottom track. |
| 2. Push the screen upward until the top of the screen is in place in the top track. | 2. Push the screen upward until the top of the screen is in place in the top track. |
| 3. Secure the screen in place by pushing the clips or springs into place. | 3. Secure the screen in place by pushing the clips or springs into place. |
Insert the Screen from the Inside
Slide the screen into the lower track with the lip facing toward the center of the window. Next, slide the opposite end while holding the screen parallel to the frame. Gently push the screen into the upper track and straight into the corners.
Trim the Excess Fabric
Carefully trim the excess fiberglass or aluminum screen material around the perimeter. Use a utility knife along the inner edge of the frame. Avoid cutting into the spline.
Secure the Spline
Position the starting point of the roll of spline on one corner of the frame. Press the spline into the channel using a spline tool or a flat-head screwdriver. Hold the spline tightly as you work around the frame.
Cut Off the Excess Spline
With the spline fully inserted around the frame, use a utility knife to trim off any excess.
Trim the Vent Tabs
If applicable, cut the vent tabs to the desired length. This ensures proper airflow while the window is open.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
10. Spline Not Holding
Check if the spline is the correct size. Use a thicker spline or apply a bead of silicone sealant around the groove to create a better grip.
| Spline Size | Groove Depth |
|---|---|
| .118 inch | .135 inch |
| .135 inch | .160 inch |
| .150 inch | .175 inch |
How to Put In a Window Screen From the Inside
If you need to replace a window screen that has been damaged or torn, you can easily do it from the inside of your home. Here are the steps on how to put in a window screen from the inside:
- Remove the old screen. To do this, simply lift the screen up and out of the window frame.
- Clean the window frame. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris from the window frame.
- Place the new screen in the window frame. Make sure that the screen is centered in the frame and that the edges are flush with the frame.
- Secure the screen. Use small nails or screws to secure the screen to the window frame.
Once you have finished these steps, your new window screen will be in place and you can enjoy the fresh air without having to worry about bugs or other pests getting inside.
People Also Ask
How do you put in a window screen without removing the window?
To put in a window screen without removing the window, you can use the following steps:
- Roll up the screen tightly.
- Insert the rolled-up screen into the window frame.
- Unroll the screen and smooth it out.
- Use small nails or screws to secure the screen to the window frame.
How do you fix a window screen that has fallen out?
If your window screen has fallen out, you can easily fix it by using the following steps:
- Clean the window frame and the screen.
- Apply a bead of silicone caulk to the edges of the screen.
- Press the screen back into the window frame.
- Use small nails or screws to secure the screen to the window frame.
How do you prevent window screens from falling out?
To prevent window screens from falling out, you can use the following tips:
- Make sure that the screen is properly secured to the window frame.
- Use storm windows or covers to protect the screens from wind and rain.
- Inspect the screens regularly for any signs of damage.
