Patio Screen Door Repair - How to Do it Yourself
A damaged or worn-out patio screen door is not only unsightly, but it also serves as an entry point for pests like mosquitoes and flies. While there are companies that will repair your patio screen door, it is fairly simple to do the job yourself.
Lay the screen flat on a surface. Remove the handle from that side by removing the screws that hold it in the position.
Screens damaged
It's not a surprise that your door or window screens will develop holes and tears as a result of weather animals, children, and pets. These damaged parts are not only unsightly but also allow insects and flies to enter your home. The good news is that fixing these problems is fairly simple. Patch kits and screen repair tap are quick fixes for minor damage. However, they do not work as well on more serious issues. This step-by-step guide will explain how to replace and repair your screens' windows and doors.
Examining the damage is the first step. Are the frames salvageable or does it need to be replaced? This is vital since, in general, window and door screen frames are more susceptible to damage than mesh. A bent frame can cause the screen to move out of alignment, resulting in holes and weak areas in the mesh.
Once you've determined whether the frame is salvageable or not, you can start addressing the mesh itself. You'll need some essential tools to complete the task. This requires a spline roller for pressing the spline inside the frame, an utility knife and scissors. Using these tools ensures accuracy and durability in your repairs.
If you have a huge hole in your screen, begin by removing as much possible of the old material to create a new space. Then, cut a patch of new screen material in a way that it is at a minimum half inch bigger all around than the damaged area. Match the patch to the grid pattern of your window If it has one. Finally, cut the edges of the patch to eliminate any irregularities and fold over the ends of the spline to conceal the edges.
Take into consideration the climate of your locale when buying a replacement screen. Fiberglass mesh is a popular choice because of its flexibility and affordability, while aluminum screens offer strength and snag-resistance. If your area is plagued by mosquitos and other pests, you may need to select a special mesh designed for insect screens. Whatever type of screen you pick make sure you stretch the material tautly over the frame to avoid sagging and wrinkles.
Broken Rollers
A damaged roller can be a gruelling issue. It can make moving the door difficult and allow bugs to get inside your home. The good thing is that fixing the rollers isn't as complicated or expensive as replacing your entire door.
Start by examining the rollers to determine what the problem is. It could be that the wheel has flattened or worn out on one end because of constant contact with track. The wheels are typically mounted as a push fit on the bracket, so you may be able to insert a screwdriver behind the roller between it and the bracket and attempt to push it off. If you're still unable to remove the roller then spray the shaft with WD-40 and try again.
It's an excellent idea to look at the tracks from top and bottom. You can straighten bent tracks by hammering a block of wooden against the bent section. It is important to wash the tracks well, as they may accumulate dust and grit.
Once you've identified the kind of roller that's broken, you can purchase a new one. Bring your old rollers to the hardware store so you are sure you're buying the correct model. Some doors have more than one roller, so be sure to purchase enough to replace them all.
Before installing the new roller using a screwdriver, loosen the bolts or screws that adjust the door. on the inside of the frame, near the rollers. Once the screws are loose, you can take the rollers from the bottom of the door. It is recommended to have someone help you with this step to liberate your hands and concentrate on getting rid of the rollers.
After the new roller has been installed The door can then be raised back into place and the bolts or screws that adjust can be tightened. Be sure to check the alignment of the rollers and the track, as well. If everything is in the correct position the patio screen will slide in place easily.
Damaged Frame
There are several ways you can fix your screen door to stop it from rubbing against the frame. First, make sure that the hinges are in good condition. A door could be bowed if the hinges are loose. If they are loose, just tighten the hinge screws. If this doesn't work then you may need to sand down the top of the frame.
Another common problem with screen doors is a rotting frame. It can be expensive to repair, since it usually involves replacing the entire frame. To avoid this, be on the eye out for signs of rot, and treat them as soon as you notice them. Look for signs of decay by observing wood that appears darker than the rest of the frame. Keep an eye out for areas where the wood has started to bow or warp. If you notice any of these issues, call a professional.
You can fix a damaged frame by using mesh adhesive patch kits costing between $2-$7. The kit comes with a small piece mesh and glue that can be used to fix any holes in the screen. If the damage is minor it is possible to repair it using wood filler. To accomplish this, you'll have to apply the wood filler to the affected area and wait for it dry before sanding it smooth.
For a more permanent solution you can purchase a frame lift, which is a metal structure that is bolted onto the frame you have and lifts it up. It can be expensive however it is the best option in cases where your frame is severely damaged or has completely rotted.
You can make a simple leg for your screen door with a scrap of wood or an old photo frame display stand. Then, fasten a wire or brackets to the back of the frame to hang it on the wall. You can even attach a piece of felt to the bottom of the frame to shield your wall from scratches.
Broken Splines
A damaged screen spline can be just as frustrating to manage as a damaged frame or door. It may seem like a problem that is easy to ignore. But if you let it go for too long, pests such as mosquitoes and flies may slip through. This could quickly become a larger problem that could lead to costly repairs or a new door screen.
It is easy to replace a broken spline, particularly with the right tools. First, you'll need remove 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. Take the spline off with a screwdriver. If the spline is especially damaged or brittle, you might find that it breaks as you try to pull it out of the groove.
When you are removing the old spline, ensure that you remove any caulking used to keep the spline from moving. patio door repairs will ensure that the new spline is capable of fitting into the grooves.
After you've removed all the old spline, use a utility knife to trim any excess screen from the frame. This will ensure that you have a tight, clean fit on all sides of the frame when you put in the new spline.
When you have a clean frame and have the new screen material cut to size, it's time to start installing the new spline. Start with the short side of the frame. Incorporate the spline into the screen channel using your splining tool. Continue to roll the spline, pressing it into as you go. Repeat this process on each side of the frame. While you work try to keep the screen taut with spring clamps or tape.
After you have splined all of the short sides of the frame shift to the opposite side and repeat the process. Then, finish by splining the top and bottom of the frame.