Are you tired of bugs invading your home through open windows? Are you looking for an effective and affordable way to keep insects out while still allowing fresh air in? Making your own window screens is an easy and cost-effective solution that can significantly improve your home’s comfort and hygiene. This step-by-step guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to create durable and aesthetically pleasing window screens that will protect your home from unwanted pests. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a complete novice, this guide will empower you to tackle this project with confidence and achieve impressive results.
Firstly, gathering the necessary materials is crucial. You will need a few basic tools and supplies that are readily available at most hardware stores. These include measuring tape, a utility knife, screen mesh, spline, a spline roller, and window frame molding. The type of screen mesh you choose depends on the size of the insects you want to keep out. For most common insects, a standard 18 x 16 mesh is sufficient. Once you have your materials, it’s time to take accurate measurements of your windows. Measure the height and width of each window opening, and add about 2 inches to both measurements to allow for the frame.
Now it’s time to assemble the window screens. Cut the window frame molding to the desired length and assemble it using corner brackets. Make sure the corners are square and secure. Next, cut the screen mesh to the size of the frame, ensuring it overlaps the edges by about 1 inch. Place the screen mesh over the frame and secure it with the spline. The spline roller will help you insert the spline into the groove around the frame. Ensure the spline is evenly inserted and taut to keep the screen mesh in place. Finally, trim any excess screen mesh, and your window screens are ready to be installed. By following these steps carefully, you can create custom-fit window screens that will provide effective protection against insects and enhance the comfort of your home.
Choosing the Right Wood
When selecting wood for your window screens, consider the following factors:
Species
Cedar, redwood, and cypress are naturally resistant to rot and insects, making them ideal choices for outdoor use. Other durable woods include pine, fir, and hemlock.
Grain
Choose wood with a straight grain for strength and durability. Avoid wood with knots or other imperfections that could weaken the screen.
Moisture Content
Wood used for window screens should have a moisture content of 12% or less to prevent warping or cracking.
The following table summarizes the key characteristics of some common wood species for window screens:
| Species | Durability | Grain | Moisture Content |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar | Excellent | Straight | Low |
| Redwood | Excellent | Straight | Low |
| Cypress | Excellent | Straight | Low |
| Pine | Good | Straight | Medium |
| Fir | Good | Straight | Medium |
| Hemlock | Fair | Straight | Medium |
Attaching the Casing
Once the screen frame is assembled and the mesh is attached, it’s time to attach the casing. The casing is the frame that holds the screen in place in the window opening. It’s typically made of wood or aluminum and is attached to the window frame with screws or nails.
Measuring and cutting the casing
The first step is to measure and cut the casing to the correct length. To do this, measure the width and height of the window opening, then add 1 inch to each measurement. This will give you the length of the casing. Cut the casing to this length using a miter saw or a handsaw.
Attaching the casing to the screen frame
Once the casing is cut to length, it’s time to attach it to the screen frame. To do this, place the casing around the screen frame and secure it with screws or nails. Start by attaching the top and bottom pieces of the casing, then add the sides.
Attaching the casing to the window frame
Once the casing is attached to the screen frame, it’s time to attach it to the window frame. To do this, place the screen in the window opening and center it. Secure the casing to the window frame with screws or nails.
Finishing the casing
Once the casing is attached, it’s time to finish it. This can be done by painting or staining the casing to match the window frame. You can also add decorative trim to the casing to give it a more finished look.
Tools and Materials
| Tools | Materials |
|---|---|
| Miter saw or handsaw | Casing |
| Screwdriver or nail gun | Screws or nails |
| Paintbrush or staining pad | Paint or stain |
| Decorative trim (optional) |
Installing the Stop Moldings
Now that the frame and screen are assembled, it’s time to install the stop moldings. These moldings will hold the screen in place and keep it from falling out of the window.
To install the stop moldings, follow these steps:
- Cut the stop moldings to length. The stop moldings should be the same length as the sides of the frame.
- Apply a thin bead of caulk to the inside edge of the stop moldings. This will help to seal the screen in place and prevent air from leaking through.
- Place the stop moldings on the inside of the frame. Make sure that the stop moldings are flush with the edge of the frame.
- Nail the stop moldings in place. Use small nails to avoid splitting the wood.
- Caulk around the edges of the stop moldings. This will help to seal the screen in place and prevent air from leaking through.
-
Stop Molding Type Description Split stop A molding that is cut in half lengthwise, creating two narrow strips that are nailed to the inside edges of the frame to hold the screen in place. Rabbeted stop A molding that has a groove cut into the back, allowing it to fit snugly over the edge of the frame and hold the screen in place. Spring stop A molding that has a spring-loaded lip that flexes to hold the screen in place.
Sealing and Finishing the Window Frame
Once the screen frame is secured, it’s crucial to seal and finish the window frame to provide weather protection and enhance the overall appearance of the window.
7. Applying a Finish
To complete the window frame finishing, choose a durable paint or stain that complements the exterior of your home. Follow these steps for a professional-grade finish:
- Clean and Sand: Thoroughly clean the window frame with a mild detergent and water. Sand any rough edges or imperfections to create a smooth surface for the finish.
- Apply Primer: Apply a primer to the frame to enhance adhesion and prevent the wood from absorbing too much paint.
- Paint or Stain: Use a brush or roller to apply the paint or stain in even, thin coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
- Touch Up: Inspect the frame for any missed spots or imperfections. Touch up these areas with a small brush or touch-up paint.
- Clear Coat (Optional): For added protection and durability, consider applying a clear coat over the painted or stained frame.
| Material | Finish Type |
|---|---|
| Wood | Exterior Paint or Stain, Exterior Polyurethane |
| Aluminum | Clear Anodized Finish, Powder Coating |
| Vinyl | Vinyl Siding Paint, Vinyl Sealant |
How to Make Screens for Windows
Making screens for windows is a relatively simple and inexpensive project that can be completed in a few hours. With the right materials and tools, you can create custom screens that fit your windows perfectly and provide years of use. Here are the steps on how to make screens for windows:
1. **Measure the window.** The first step is to measure the window to determine the size of the screen you need. Measure the width and height of the window opening, and add 2 inches to each measurement to allow for overlap.
2. **Cut the frame.** Once you have the measurements, you can cut the frame for the screen. You can use wood, aluminum, or vinyl for the frame. Cut the frame to the desired size, and miter the corners so that they fit together snugly.
3. **Attach the screen mesh.** The next step is to attach the screen mesh to the frame. Stretch the mesh over the frame and secure it with staples or tacks. Make sure the mesh is taut, but not too tight.
4. **Install the screen.** Once the screen is assembled, you can install it in the window. Place the screen in the window opening and secure it with screws or nails. Make sure the screen is level and fits snugly in the opening.
5. **Enjoy your new screens!** With a little time and effort, you can make custom screens for your windows that will provide years of use. Enjoy the fresh air and keep the bugs out!
People Also Ask
How do I measure for a window screen?
Measure the width and height of the window opening, and add 2 inches to each measurement to allow for overlap.
What type of material should I use for a window screen?
You can use wood, aluminum, or vinyl for the frame. Fiberglass or aluminum mesh is a good choice for the screen.
How do I attach the screen mesh to the frame?
Stretch the mesh over the frame and secure it with staples or tacks. Make sure the mesh is taut, but not too tight.
How do I install the screen in the window?
Place the screen in the window opening and secure it with screws or nails. Make sure the screen is level and fits snugly in the opening.
