If you notice a snag or tear in a window screen, you can fix it at home in several simple steps, including removing the damaged area, positioning a new screen, and inserting a new spline.

Window screens prevent debris and pests from entering your home, so it’s important to have functioning screens in place.

If you need to fix a window screen, you’re in luck—licensed

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How to replace a window screen

Window screens are essential in keeping insects and debris out of your home, so they need to be replaced if they are torn in any way.

Luckily, replacing a window screen is an easy and affordable project for DIYers regardless of skill level.

Get your tools ready

To get started, you’ll want to get all of your tools and materials prepared. For a window screen replacement, you will need:

Nail punch

Scissors

Screen rolling tool

Small clamps

Small flathead screwdriver

Spline

Utility knife

Window screening

Laying out all your materials neatly will keep your workspace organized and clutter-free while you work.

Remove the damaged window screen

A spline, or plastic cord, runs in a channel along the metal frame perimeter and holds the screen in place. Lift the spline out of the channel using a nail punch, small flat-head screwdriver, or sharp object.

Set the spline aside for later, but discard the damaged window screen.

Once the spline is out, you can wash the metal frame if it is dirty. Then, take the spline with you to your local home improvement store to find a correctly sized-replacement while the frame dries.

Measure out the new screening material

When it is completely clean and dry, lay the metal frame down on a flat surface. Roll out the window screening material to cover the entirety of the metal frame.

Cut the screening material and leave an extra two inches on each side. The excess material ensures the screening will be big enough to fit the frame, and you can trim it off later once everything else is finished.

MORE: How to install a screen door

Position the new window screen

Place the new length of window screening material on top of the frame. Make sure it overlaps the metal frame on all sides.

Since window screening material is typically sold on a roll, it may want to automatically curl up when you cut it. Lay it curved side down when you unroll it so it’s easier to work with. Pull the screening material taut and use clamps or tape to secure it to the frame.

Insert a new spline

The screen rolling tool has two sides: concave and convex. Use the convex wheel to push the window screening material into the channel in the metal frame. You will want to start on one side and work your way around the frame’s perimeter.

The window screen material will need to be taut while you work, which is where the clamps or tape come in handy. After you push the material into the channel, use the concave side of the screen rolling tool to insert a new spline.

Remove excess screening material and replace the window screen

Once the new spline has been inserted in the channel of the metal frame, you can trim off the excess window screening material. Use your utility knife to cut the material outside the spline at an angle where the blade doesn’t cut the spline.

When the excess screening material has been cut off and the spline is secure, you can install your new window screens!

Does home insurance cover window screen replacement?

Whether it’s your window screen or your showerhead, your homeowners insurance will only cover damages from covered perils. For example, if a tree branch fell through the window and damaged the screen, the screen would be covered, but wear and tear is never covered.

Homeowners insurance will not cover a window screen replacement due to accidental damage you cause to your window or an improperly-installed part.

How to find affordable home insurance

Fixing a window screen by yourself instead of hiring someone is an easy way to save money. If you want to save on your homeowners insurance, download the Jerry app.

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FAQs

How much does it cost to replace a window screen?

It usually costs between $20 and $100 to replace a window screen, depending on the size of the screen.

How do you measure a replacement window screen?

To measure the replacement screen, lay the metal screen frame on a flat surface and roll the screening material over the top of it. Cut the screening material to the size of the frame, and leave out two extra inches on all sides. You can trim off the excess after you install the spline.

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