With summer in full swing, now is the time to replace those torn or worn screens around your home.

Step 1:  Remove the screen frame from the window or door and lay the frame on a flat hard surface.

Step 2: Measure the frame and add two inches to both the length and width to determine the size of the new piece of screen.

Step 3:  For metal frames, remove the rubber spline that holds the screen in place by using a flat head screw driver to free a corner of the spline. Gently pull the spline out from its channel. For wooden frames, use a small pry bar or chisel and carefully pry the wood moulding off of the frame.

Step 4:  If the old spline is still flexible and in relatively good shape, reuse it. Otherwise, take a sample of the spline to the hardware store and purchase a new package of identically sized spline. For wooden frames, reuse the old moulding strips and nails, even if the strips are slightly broken, or replace the old moulding strips with new ones.

Step 6:  Lay the new piece of screen over the screen frame. The new screen should overlap the frame about an inch on all four sides. For metal frames, prepare to install the spline by using the small wheel of a spline rolling tool to gently press the screen into the spline channel around the frame. Press down on the center of the screen with your free hand while doing this to assure the screen is not pulled too tight into the frame.   

Step 7:  Secure the screen to the frame by using the large wheel of a spline rolling tool to carefully press the spline into the channel around the edges of the frame. Move slowly to avoid tearing the screen. Use a flat edge screw driver to press the spline neatly into the corners of the channel. For wooden frames, use a staple gun or small nails to secure the screen to the frame.

Step 8:  Use a carton knife to trim the excess screen from the edges of the frame. For wooden frames, carefully press the moulding strips back into place, aligning the nails with their respective holes along the way. Step 9:  Reinstall the screen frame into its respective window or door and enjoy the view.