Occasionally a metal screen will fall out, be blown out or otherwise damaged beyond repair. Then there are windows, especially in older houses that are odd sizes for which a screen is desired.
Materials to make a replacement screen or odd-sized screen can be purchased at many building material or hardware stores. The framing material usually comes in lengths of 6 feet so measure the opening into which the frame must fit before you buy the material. Buy enough material to make the four sides. In addition buy a package of four corner braces. Then proceed as follows: Step 1. Mark off a 45 degree angle near one end of the material. Step 2. Mark off a distance equal to one side of the opening being sure to mark on the long side. Step 3. Cut another 45 degree angle so the piece looks like the side of a picture frame. Step 4. Insert a corner brace into each end of one of the pieces and attach two more sides so you have a "U" shape. Step 5. Insert the remaining 2 corner braces into the last side and attach to the frame. Step 6. Install the screen fabric as described in the section on Replacing Screens on Aluminum Frame. Step 1. Remove the aluminum or plastic retainer strip from around the frame that holds the screen fabric. Be careful not to tear the plastic or break the aluminum strip. An ice pick or other sharp pointed object works well to remove either type of retainer. Step 2. Using the torn screening as a pattern, cut the new screening. Plastic screening is usually used with aluminum frames. Cut the screen at least 1/2" wider than the pattern to be sure there is enough to hold when you put the retainer strip back. Cutting the screen even with the outside of the frame is a good size. Step 3. Spread the screening over the frame and press the retainer strip into the groove. Temporarily fastening the screen with masking tape keeps it in place on the frame. You may need a hammer to force the retainer strip into the groove. Do not strike the metal strip directly with the hammer but use a wood block about 3" or 4" long between the hammer and the strip. If a plastic strip is used it can be forced into the groove by hand pressure on a wooden block 3 to 4 inches long. Rubber moulding is used also therefore a roller especially manufactured for this purpose is used to roll the rubber section in. Step 4. Trim off excess screening with a kitchen scissors or a knife or razor blade.
