A door mesh can rip, tear, or sag over time from normal wear and tear and constant exposure to outside elements. This could weaken your barrier against insects and make your home’s curbside look bad.
This complete guide will give you all the information and skills you need to replace the mesh on your screen door. We'll show you everything you need to fix your screen door mesh and let the bug-free summer breeze through your durable entry door and into your home.
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to learn how to replace screen door mesh and reclaim your summer sanctuary.
Types of Screen Door Mesh Replacement To Choose From
First, let’s delve into the door mesh types you need to consider: fibreglass, aluminum and vinyl-coated polyester. See how they compare with each other below:
Source: Canva
Materials You Need in Replacing Screen Door Mesh
Here's what you'll need to successfully replace your screen door mesh or fix your screen door mesh:
- Replacement Screen Mesh
- Spline Roller: For pressing the spline into the groove holding the mesh
- Flat-Head Screwdriver: For prying out the old spline and securing the new spline in place
- Utility Knife/Razor Blade: For cutting away the old mesh and trimming the new mesh to size.
- Scissors: For trimming excess mesh after installation
- Tape Measure: For measuring mesh material
How to Fix Screen Door Mesh in 4 Steps
Here's how to replace screen door mesh using a spline roller for a smooth and efficient replacement of your screen door mesh when they don’t have a warranty:
1. Remove the Screen Door and Spline
- For easier handling, remove the screen door from its hinges. Lay the door flat on the floor.
- Using your flat-head screwdriver or spline tool, carefully pry out the old spline from the groove that holds the mesh in place. Work your way around the entire frame, removing the spline gradually to avoid damaging the frame itself.
- Once the spline is removed, gently peel away the old screen material and dispose of it.
2. Install the New Mesh
- Lay the new screen mesh flat on a clean work surface.
- Carefully place the screen door frame on top of the new mesh. Pull the screen taut. Make sure the excess mesh is evenly distributed around all edges of the frame. Aim for approximately 1-2 inches of excess mesh on all sides.
- Look for the starting point for the spline groove, typically one corner of the frame. Insert the end of the spline into the groove at the starting point.
- With a firm grip, hold the spline roller and begin rolling it along the groove, continuously feeding the spline into the groove as you move.
- As you roll the spline, apply gentle but consistent pressure to ensure the mesh remains taut and wrinkle-free throughout the entire frame. Continue rolling the spline and pressing it firmly into the groove until you reach the starting point again.
💡Note: Wondering how to replace screen window mesh? It’s just like replacing screen door mesh, so you can use the skills you just learned to replace your window screen.
3. Trim Excess Screen Mesh
- With your sharp utility knife or razor blade, carefully trim away any excess mesh that extends beyond the screen door frame.
- Maintain a clean and finished look. Keep your free hand away from the blade and cut slowly.
4. Reinstall Screen Door
- Carefully lift the door and align it with its hinges.
- Securely fasten the screws or pins that hold the door in place.
- Once reinstalled, gently open and close the door a few times to ensure it swings freely and doesn't catch on anything.
Source: Canva
Maintaining Your Screen Door
Your screen door, just like your window, works tirelessly to keep out pesky insects while inviting fresh air in. But like any part of your home, it requires regular maintenance to function optimally. Here's a guide on how to care for your screen door:
- Grab a soft brush or your vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment. Gently remove dust, cobwebs, and any loose debris from the screen mesh.
- Using a damp cloth and a mild detergent solution, gently wipe down the screen door frame and tracks. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the finish.
- Once clean, use a soft, dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture from the frame.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure your screen door remains a reliable insect barrier and a valuable source of ventilation for your home, season after season.
💡Note: Regularly check your screen doors for tears, rips, or loose spline to identify and fix minor issues before they become larger problems. Fortunately, you can fix these minor repairs easily with leftover mesh and spline.
Trusted Window and Door Experts at Clera
While tackling DIY projects and learning how to replace screen door mesh can be rewarding, window and door screens are often overlooked when it comes to professional installation.
Clera Windows + Doors, a trusted Ontario fenestration business for over 45 years, offers a complete window and door replacement experience, including entry door and sliding door replacement.
Our experienced technicians ensure a perfect fit and a secure installation, minimizing the risk of drafts or unwanted insects. This not only keeps your home comfortable but also gives you peace of mind.
Contact us today for a consultation and experience the Clera difference.
