Patio Screen Door Repair - How to Do it Yourself
A worn or torn screen door isn't just unsightly; it provides a convenient entryway for flies, mosquitoes, and other insects. There are a variety of services that can fix your patio screen doors however, it is a simple task to do yourself.
First, place the screen on a flat work surface. Remove the handle by taking off the screws that secure it.
Damaged Screens
It's not too surprising that your door or window screens will begin to develop tears and holes due to weather pets, children, and even pets. Aside from being unsightly, these damaged sections allow flies and other pests into your home. The good news is that fixing these issues is relatively simple. While patch kits and screen repair tape offer an easy solution for minor damage, these products do not work for larger issues. This step-by-step guide will teach you how to properly repair and replace your windows and doors for screen.
Analyzing the damage is the first step. Is the frame salvageable, or does it need to be replaced? This is crucial because, as a rule, window and door frame screens are more prone to damage than mesh. A bent frame could pull the screen out of alignment, resulting in holes and weak spots in the mesh.
Once you've determined whether the frame is salvageable or not, you can start working on the mesh itself. For this job, you'll need a few essential tools. This procedure requires a spline roll for pressing the spline into the frame, a utility knife and scissors. These tools will ensure accuracy and durability when you make repairs.
If you've got a large hole in your screen, start by removing as much as possible of the old material to create a new space. Cut an entirely new screen material that is at least half an inch wider all around than the damaged portion. Make sure the patch matches the grid pattern of your window if it has one. Cut the edges to eliminate any imperfections. Fold over patio door repair to conceal them.
Take into consideration the climate of your region when purchasing a replacement screen. Aluminum screens are strong and resistant to snags while fiberglass mesh is a favorite for its low cost and flexibility. You could also opt for a specialized insect screen mesh if your region is ravaged by mosquitoes or other insects. Whichever type of screen you select, remember to stretch the fabric tautly over the frame in order to prevent wrinkles and sagging.
Broken Rollers
A broken roller can be a major issue. It can make moving the door a challenge and also allow bugs to get inside your home. The good thing is that fixing your rollers won't be nearly as costly or complex as replacing your door.
Begin by looking at your rollers to determine the problem. It could be that the wheel has sunk or worn out on one end because of the constant contact with track. Try to remove the wheels by putting a screwdriver between the roller and the bracket. If you're unable to get the roller to fall off, it may be beneficial to spray the shaft with WD-40 prior to trying again.
It is also important to look at the tracks from top to bottom. You can straighten bent tracks by hammering a block of wooden against the bent portion. It's important to clean out the tracks as well because they can hold sand and grit.
Once you've identified the type of roller that is damaged, you can buy the replacement. Bring your old rollers to the hardware store so you can ensure you're purchasing the correct model. Some doors have more than one roller, so make sure to purchase enough rollers to replace them all.
Before installing the new roller, use a screwdriver to loosen the adjustment screws or bolts on the inside of the door frame, close to the door rollers. After the screws are loosened, you can remove rollers from the bottom. It's best to have someone assist you in this step, so that you can unwind your hands to focus on getting rid of the rollers.
After installing the new roller the door can be raised and the bolts or screws for adjustment can be tightened. Be sure to check the alignment of the rollers and the track, as well. If everything is properly positioned, your patio screen door should slide easily into its place.
Damaged Frame
There are a variety of ways to repair your screen door that is to stop it from rubbing against the frame. Make sure that the hinges are tight. Loose hinges could cause doors to become stuck, which means it will stop when you open or close the door. If they're loose make sure you tighten the hinge screws. If this does not work then you may need to sand the top of the frame.
Another common issue with screen doors is a rotting frame. This can be expensive to fix, since it usually involves replacing the entire frame. To avoid this, keep a lookout for signs of rot, and treat them when you spot them. Find soft wood that is darker than the rest. Also, keep an eye on areas that have started to bow or warp. If you notice any of these issues contact a professional.
You can repair damaged frames by using mesh adhesive patch kits that costs from $2-$7. The kit comes with a small piece mesh and glue that you can use to repair any holes in the screen. If the damage is minor you can attempt to fix it with wood filler. To do this, you'll have to apply the wood filler on the area that is damaged and wait for it be dry before sanding it smooth.
For a more permanent solution you can opt for a frame lift, which is a structure made of metal that bolts to your existing frame and lifts it up. This is a costly alternative, but it is the best option if your frame has been severely damaged or rotted.
You can create a simple leg for your screen door with wood scraps or an old display stand for your photo frame. Attach brackets or wires to the back of the frame to hang the frame on the wall. You can also add a piece of felt to the bottom to protect the wall from scratches.
Broken Splines
A broken screen spline is the same as a damaged door or frame. It might seem like a problem that can be overlooked. If you let it go for too long, pests such as mosquitoes and flies can slip through. This could quickly turn into an issue that is more serious and could result in more expensive repairs or even a replacement screen door.
It is easy to replace a broken screen spline if you have the right tools. You will first need to take off the old spline from the screen door. This can be done by placing the frame flat on a surface such as a table, or the ground. Make use of a screwdriver in order to pry open the free end of the spline, and then pull it out. If the spline has become especially worn or brittle, it may break as you try to remove it from the groove.
When you are removing the old spline, make sure that you remove any caulking that has been used to hold the spline in place. This will ensure that the new spline is suitable for fitting into the grooves.
Use a utility blade to cut the excess screen around the frame after you have removed the old spline. This will ensure you have an even, clean fit on all sides of the frame when you install the new spline.
When you have a clean frame and have the new screen material cut to size, it's time to begin installing the new spline. Start by putting it on one of the shorter sides of the frame. Roll the spline into the screen channel using your splining device. Continue to roll the spline, pushing it in as you move. Repeat this process on each short side of the frame. While you work, use spring clamps or tape to keep the screen taut.
Repeat the process for the second side once you have completed the splining process for all the short sides. Finish by splining both the bottom and top edges of the frame.