Tools Required
- Tape Measure
- Razor Knife or Box Cutter
- Pick
- Needle Nose Pliers
- Ladder (For Most Situations)
- Spline Roller
- Wire Brush
Rescreen Overview
Rescreening a screen enclosure panel is a straightforward task that homeowners can undertake to maintain the integrity and functionality of their outdoor spaces. Whether your screen has succumbed to wear and tear over time, or you’re looking to upgrade to a higher quality material like Phifer’s range of insect screens, the process is relatively simple and requires only a few tools. The key to a successful rescreening project lies in careful preparation and attention to detail, from selecting the right type of spline to ensuring the screen is taut and free from wrinkles or bubbles.
Before diving into the rescreening process, it’s essential to assess the condition of your existing screen and frame. Identifying the type of spline used and cleaning out any debris or oxidation in the spline groove will pave the way for a smoother installation. Choosing the right screen material is also crucial, as it determines the level of protection and durability your enclosure will have. Phifer’s insect screens, available in various mesh sizes, offer excellent options for standard bug protection and finer mesh for enhanced defense against tiny insects.
Armed with the right tools and a clear understanding of the steps involved, rescreening your enclosure can be a rewarding DIY project. It not only revitalizes the look of your outdoor space but also ensures that it remains a comfortable and bug-free area for relaxation and entertainment. With a little patience and precision, you can achieve professional-quality results and enjoy the benefits of a well-maintained screen enclosure.
Simple Step-by-Step Instructions for Rescreening a Screen Enclosure Panel
Step 1: Identify the Spline Type
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- Examine the existing spline to determine its type. It’s important because the type of spline (round or flat) and its size (.140” for window frames, .210”-.220” for screen enclosures, and .310 for flat spline applications) are crucial for the right fit.
Step 2: Select the Right Insect Screen
- Choose a durable insect screen like Phifer, which offers various options like 18/14 for standard bug protection or 20/20 No-See-Um screen for finer protection against tiny biting flies, especially if you’re near water bodies.
Step 3: Remove Old Screen and Spline
- Use the pick to remove the old spline from the groove, then pull it out with needle nose pliers.
- If there’s oxidation in the groove, clean it out with a wire brush to ease the rescreening process.
Step 4: Measure and Cut New Screen
- Measure the opening and add a couple of inches on all sides for the new screen size.
- Cut the screen with a razor knife, using the screen’s grid as a guide to keep your cuts straight.
Step 5: Rescreening Process
- Choose a calm day for rescreening, ensuring the ground is level. Position yourself close to the enclosure to avoid overreaching.Start by placing the corner of the screen at the top right corner of the enclosure, holding the spline in your mouth for easy access.
- Use the ‘V method’ with your fingers to start inserting the spline with the roller, making sure the groove of flat spline faces inward.
- Roll the spline into the groove section by section, keeping the screen taut and aligned with the groove. Cut the spline neatly at each intersection to avoid overlapping or tearing.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
- After securing all sides with the spline, inspect for any bubbles or loose areas. Trim the excess screen carefully around the edges to complete the rescreening.
Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions for Rescreening a Screen Enclosure Panel
Step 1: Identify the Spline Type
- Guidance: Examine the existing spline in your screen enclosure to determine its type and size. Use a caliper or a ruler to measure the diameter of the spline. Common diameters include .140” for window frames and .210”-.220” for screen enclosures, with .310” used for flat spline applications.
- Common Pitfalls: Assuming all spline sizes are interchangeable can lead to a poor fit, causing the screen to be loose or overly tight.
- Professional Tips: If the old spline is damaged or stretched, take a small segment to a hardware store for comparison to ensure an accurate match. Consider the screen material thickness when selecting a new spline, as thicker screens may require a larger spline diameter for a secure fit.
Step 2: Select the Right Insect Screen
- Guidance: Choose a screen material that suits your needs. For standard bug protection, a 18/14 mesh size is common. For finer protection against tiny insects like No-See-Ums, especially in areas near water, a 20/20 mesh is recommended.
- Common Pitfalls: Selecting a screen material without considering the local insect population or environmental conditions can lead to ineffective protection.
- Professional Tips: Assess the climate and specific needs of your area. In coastal regions, consider a screen that offers resistance to salt air corrosion. For pet owners, a pet-resistant screen material may be more appropriate.
Step 3: Remove Old Screen and Spline
- Guidance: Use the pick to gently pry up the end of the old spline and then grasp it with needle-nose pliers. Pull it out evenly to avoid tearing the screen if you’re planning to reuse it. If there’s oxidation or debris in the groove, clean it with a wire brush.
- Common Pitfalls: Rushing this step can damage the frame’s groove, making it difficult to insert the new spline.
- Professional Tips: If the spline is brittle or breaks, apply a small amount of silicone spray lubricant to ease its removal. Be careful not to damage the paint or finish on the frame.
Step 4: Measure and Cut New Screen
- Guidance: Measure the frame’s opening and add at least two inches on all sides to ensure you have enough material to work with. Use a straight edge and a razor knife to cut the screen, using the material’s grid lines as a guide to keep your cuts straight.
- Common Pitfalls: Cutting the screen too small can lead to gaps or insufficient material to properly tension the screen.
- Professional Tips: Lay the screen on a flat, clean surface to ensure an even cut. For larger enclosures, consider having an extra set of hands to help hold the screen in place.
Step 5: Install the New Screen
- Guidance: Start by anchoring one corner of the screen into the frame groove using the spline and a spline roller tool. Work your way around the frame, keeping the screen taut to avoid wrinkles or loose areas. Use the convex wheel of the spline roller to press the spline into the groove, securing the screen in place.
- Common Pitfalls: Overstretching the screen can cause it to tear or result in a distorted view through the screen.
- Professional Tips: Use the “V method” by pressing down into the groove with the roller at a slight angle, creating a ‘V’ shape that helps guide the spline into the groove. This technique helps prevent the spline from popping out as you work.
Step 6: Trim Excess Screen and Finish
- Guidance: Once the spline is securely in place, trim the excess screen material using the razor knife. Angle the blade slightly towards the outside of the frame to ensure a clean cut without damaging the newly installed screen.
- Common Pitfalls: Cutting too close to the spline can cause the screen to pull out of the groove, while leaving too much excess can look untidy and may flap in the wind.
- Professional Tips: For a professional finish, press down the spline one final time with the spline roller after trimming the excess screen. This ensures the spline is fully seated and the screen is tightly secured.
Conclusion
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve journeyed through the step-by-step process of rescreening a screen enclosure panel, from the initial assessment and removal of the old screen and spline, through selecting the right materials, to the precise installation of the new screen. You’ve learned the importance of choosing the correct spline type and screen material to suit your specific requirements, whether it’s for standard protection or to keep out the smallest of pests. We’ve also delved into the intricacies of measuring, cutting, and installing the screen to ensure a tight, wrinkle-free fit that revitalizes your outdoor space.
While rescreening can be a rewarding DIY project, it’s clear that the process can be intricate and, at times, challenging. Ensuring a perfect fit, avoiding common pitfalls, and achieving a professional finish requires patience, precision, and a bit of know-how. It’s understandable that such a task might seem daunting for some, especially when dealing with large enclosures or complex frame designs.
That’s where Screens N’ More comes into play. Our team of experts is ready to take the hassle out of rescreening your enclosure, providing professional, high-quality service to meet all your rescreen needs. Whether you’re facing difficulties in the DIY process or simply prefer the assurance of a professional touch, Screens N’ More is here to help. Feel free to reach out to us at (772) 477-1044 for assistance, advice, or to schedule a service. Let us help you enjoy your outdoor living space to the fullest, with a beautifully rescreened enclosure that stands the test of time.
Related Links
Explore the tools and materials recommended in our guide to enhance your rescreening project:
- Phifer Screens: https://www.phifer.com/
- Phifer No-See-Ums Screens: https://www.phifer.com/product/no-see-ums-20-20/
- How To Choose The Right Spline Size: https://www.phifer.com/screening/diy/sizing/
- Screening Tools on Amazon: Shop Now
