Patio Screen Door Repair - How to Do it Yourself
A worn or torn screen door isn't just ugly; it's also a an ideal entrance point for flies, mosquitoes, and other bugs. While there are services that can repair your patio screen door, it's quite simple to complete the job yourself.
Lay the screen flat on a work surface. Take the handle off by removing the screws that hold it in place.
Damaged Screens
It's not a surprise that your door or window screens will develop holes and tears due to weather animals, children, and pets. The damaged screens aren't just ugly, but they also let insects and flies to enter your home. Repairing these issues is simple. While patch kits and screen repair tapes offer an easy fix for minor damage, these products aren't suited to more serious issues. This step-by-step guide will explain how to repair and replace your doors and windows.
Examining the damage is the first step. Can the frame be repaired or does it require to be replaced? This is vital because, as a rule windows and door screen frames are more susceptible to damage than the mesh. A bent frame may cause the screen to fall out of alignment, causing holes or weak spots.
After you've decided whether or not the frame can be salvaged and you're ready to build the mesh. You'll require a few essential tools to accomplish this task. This procedure requires a spline roll for pressing the spline into the frame, a utility knife and a pair of scissors. These tools will ensure precision and durability when you make repairs.
If you have a large hole in your screen, begin by removing as much possible of the old material to make a clean space. Cut a new piece of screen material that is at least one half inch larger all around than the damaged part. If your window is designed with grid patterns, be sure to match the patch to it. Trim the edges to eliminate any imperfections. Fold over the edges of spline to hide them.
When buying a new screen, you should think about the climate in the area you live in. Fiberglass mesh is a popular option for its flexibility and affordability as well as aluminum screens that offer durability and snag-proofing. You may also wish to select a special insect screen mesh if your area is plagued with mosquitos and other pests. Whatever type of screen you choose, remember to stretch the fabric tautly over the frame to avoid sagging and wrinkles.
Broken Rollers
A damaged roller can be a frustrating issue. It can make moving the door a challenge and also allow bugs to get inside your home. The good news is that repair of your rollers isn't as expensive or complicated as replacing your door.
Start by examining your rollers to identify the issue. It may be that the wheel is flattened out, or perhaps the other end of the wheel has worn out from constant contact with the track. The wheels are usually fitted with a push fit to the bracket, so you may be able to put a screwdriver between the bracket and the roller and attempt to push off the roller. If you're still unable to remove the roller, spray the shaft area with WD-40 and try it again.
It's also a good idea to examine the tracks, both at the top and bottom. If they're bent, you can straighten them by placing a block of wood against the bent portion and hitting it with the hammer. It is important to clean the tracks, too because they can hold dirt and sand.
Once you have identified the type of roller that is damaged, you can buy an alternative. Be sure to take your old rollers to the hardware store to ensure that you buy the correct type. If your door has more than one roller, you'll need to purchase enough to replace all of them.
Use a screwdriver on the inside of the door frame, near the rollers to loosen the screws or bolts for adjustment. Once the screws are loose, you can take the rollers from the bottom of the door. This task should be done by a third party so that you don't need to work with your hands.
After installing the new roller The door can be raised, and the bolts or screws for adjustment can be tightened. Make sure to verify the alignment of the rollers and track, as well. If everything is in the right place the patio screen will slide into place easily.
Frame Damaged
If your screen door is getting caught against the frame, there are many solutions to fix it. Check that the hinges are in good shape. Doors can become sluggish when hinges are loose. If they're loose make sure you tighten the hinge screws. If this isn't working, you might need to sand the top of the frame.
A rotting frame is a common problem with screen door. It can be expensive to repair as the frame needs to be replaced. To avoid this, keep looking for signs of rot. Take care of them as soon as you spot them. Check for signs of decay by observing wood that appears darker than the rest of the frame. Keep an eye on areas that have started to bow or warp. Call a professional if you notice any of these issues.
Repairing damaged frames with a mesh adhesive patch kit, which costs between $2 and $7. The kit includes tiny pieces of mesh and glue that can be used to fix any holes in the screen. If the damage is minor it is possible to fix it with wood filler. To accomplish this, you'll have to apply the wood filler to the affected area and then wait for it to dry before sanding it smooth.
Framelifts can be purchased that is a steel structure that is bolted on to the frame you already have that lifts it. This can be a costly option however it could be the best option if your frame is severely damaged or completely decayed.
You can create an easy leg for your screen door by using a scrap of wood or an old display stand for a photo frame. Then, secure an anchor or wire 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 broken screen spline is similar to damaged frames or doors. It might seem like something minor that could be ignored, but letting it go too long can allow pests like mosquitoes and flies to get 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 not difficult to replace a broken screen spline if you have the right tools. Before you begin, you'll need to take out the old spline from the door frame. This can be done by laying the frame flat on a work surface like a table or the ground. Take the spline off with a screwdriver. If the spline is particularly worn or brittle, it could break when you attempt to remove it from the groove.
While you are pulling out the old spline make sure that you remove any caulking that has been used to keep the spline from moving. This will ensure that the new spline will be capable of fitting into the grooves.
Make use of a utility knife to trim the excess screen around the frame once you have removed the old spline. double glazed patio door repairs will ensure a snug and clean fit across the entire frame after you install the spline.
Installing the new spline is straightforward once you have cleaned the frame and cut the new material to size. Start with one of the shorter sides of the frame. The spline should be rolled into the screen channel using the splining device. Continue rolling the spline and pushing it into the screen channel as you go. Repeat this process for all of the short sides of the frame. While you are working try to keep the screen taut with spring clamps or tape.
Once you have splined each of the short sides of the frame, move to the other side and repeat the process. Complete by splining both of the top and bottom edges of the frame.