A few years back, the standard small windows on our shed were replaced with full-size windows picked up at a yard sale. The large windows let in a lot more light and dramatically improved the shed’s facade. Tired of the ripped screens, I decided it was time to rescreen the windows.
To rescreen a window, you’ll need a roll of window screen, spline, a spline tool, a pair of scissors, needle nose pliers, and an x-acto blade.
This is why these screens need to rescreening!
First step is to pull out the old spline with a pair of needle nose pliers.
Once the spline is removed, the screen pulls right off. If it is in good shape, the spline can be reused once the new screen is in place.
Lay the new screen on top of the metal frame.
Trim the screen to size, allowing a few inches of overhang on all sides.
The next step in our rescreen project is installing the spline. First I laid it on top of the screen.
This part requires a bit of muscle. The spline needs to be pressed into the groove using the thin wheel of the spline tool.
Once you reach the end of the first groove, pull the spline around the corner.
Press the spline into the groove with your fingers to get it into position.
Once it’s in position, use the tool to press it into the groove.
Work the spline into the corner from both directions to smooth out any bumps.
As you work on the remaining sides, be sure to pull the screen taught as you work the spline into the groove to ensure a nice tight fit.
I’ve reached the end. The rescreen is almost done!
The screen is nice and tight, now it’s time to trim the spline and the screen.
Using an x-acto blade, carefully trim the excess spline.
Next, carefully trim the extra screen by running the x-acto blade along the edge of the spline (be careful not to cut through the spline).
The finished screen looks great!
Now that it’s done, the screen slides back into place.
The refurbished screen looks great! Overall, this project was fairly easy, although it did require a little bit of muscle. On to the next one!
I am a Freelance Graphic Designer full of creative interests! In my spare time, I love to create something new from something old, embark on home decorating and renovation projects, try out new recipes, and attempt to garden. Beyond the artistic pursuits, I have a love for music and enjoy playing the piano and handbells.
Amy, thanks for including so many detailed pictures to accompany the rescreening instructions. My wife and I live a fairly old home that needs some work. I think I’ll try your steps on our first level windows, but I don’t like being on ladders. It seems like a professional would be my best option for the second story.
Hi Aaron, Thank you for reading our article. I’d suggest removing the screen from the inside — no professional needed! Let us know how it goes.