Patio Screen Door Repair - How to Do it Yourself

A worn-out or torn patio doors repair near me screen door isn't only ugly, it also provides an easy entryway for pests like mosquitoes and flies. There are numerous services that can repair your patio sliding door repair screen doors however, it is a simple task to fix yourself.

Lay the screen flat on a work surface. Remove the handle by taking off the screws that hold it in place.

Damaged Screens

Between weather, pets and kids, it's no surprise that tears and holes are bound to appear on your door or window screens. These damaged sections are not just ugly, but they also let pests and flies in your home. Fortunately, repairing these problems is fairly simple. While patch kits and screen repair tape offer a quick fix for minor damage, these products aren't suited to more serious issues. This step-by-step guide will explain how to replace and repair your screens' windows and doors.

The first thing you need to do is assess the damage. Is it possible to salvage the frame, or will it need to be replaced? This is vital since, in general windows and door frame screens are more prone to damage than mesh. A bent frame could cause the screen to fall out of alignment, causing holes or weak spots.

Once you've determined whether the frame can be salvaged then you can begin to tackle the mesh. To accomplish this, you'll need a few essential tools. A spline roller that presses the spline into the frame an utility knife and scissors are all necessary for this process. These tools will ensure precision and durability when making repairs.

If you're dealing with an extensive hole, start by cutting away as much of the old screen as you can to create a clean opening. Then, cut a patch of new screen material so that it is at least a half inch bigger all around than the damaged area. If your window has grid pattern, make sure to match the patch with it. Finally trim the edges of the patch to eliminate any imperfections and fold the ends of the spline to conceal them.

When purchasing your replacement screen, make sure you think about the climate in your area. Aluminum screens are durable and resistant to snags while fiberglass mesh is a favorite for its low cost and flexibility. If your area is plagued by mosquitos and other insects You may want to choose a specialized mesh for insect screens. Whatever type of screen material you choose, make sure to stretch it tautly across the frame to prevent wrinkles or sagging.

Broken Rollers

A broken roller can be a gruelling issue. It's not only making sliding your door difficult however, it can let bugs and other unwanted visitors to enter your home. The good thing is that fixing your rollers won't be nearly as expensive or difficult as replacing your door.

Start by examining your rollers to determine the issue. You may find that the wheel is flattened or worn out on one side because of constant contact with track. Try to remove the wheels by putting an screwdriver between the bracket and the roller. If you are still unable to remove the roller you can spray the shaft with WD-40, and try again.

You should also check the tracks from top to the 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 as well because they can hold sand and grit.

Once you've identified the type of roller that's broken, you can purchase a replacement. Be sure to take your old rollers to the hardware store to ensure you purchase the right type. 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 adjustment screws or bolts on the inside of the frame, near the rollers. Once the screws are loose, you can remove the rollers from the bottom of the door. It is recommended to have someone assist you in this step to help you unwind your hands and concentrate on taking off the rollers.

After the new roller has been installed, the door can be raised back into place and the adjustment screws or bolts can be tightened. Make sure to verify the alignment of the rollers and the track, too. If everything is in its proper place, your patio doors repair near me screen should slide in place easily.

Frame Damaged

If your screen door is scratching against the frame, there are several ways to correct it. First, make sure that the hinges are tight. A hinge that is loose can cause a door to become stuck, which means it will stop when you open or close the door. If they are loose, simply tighten the hinge screws. If this doesn't work then you may need to sand the top of the frame.

Another common issue with screen doors is a rotting frame. It can be expensive to repair, as it typically requires replacing the entire frame. To avoid this, keep alert for indications of rot. Take care of them as soon as you notice them. Look for soft wood that is darker than the rest. Also, keep an eye out for areas where the wood is beginning to bow or warp. If you notice any of these problems you should contact a professional.

You can repair a damaged frame by using a mesh adhesive patch kit costing between $2 to $7. The kit includes small 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 do this, apply the filler to the damaged area, then wait for it to dry, and then sand it smooth.

Framelifts can be purchased which is a metallic structure bolted onto your existing frame that lifts it up. This is a very expensive alternative, but it is the best if your frame has been severely damaged or rotted.

You can build a simple leg for your screen door by using wood scraps or an old display stand for your photo frame. Then, attach the brackets or wire to the back of the frame to hang it on the wall. You can add a piece felt to the bottom to protect the wall from scratches.

Broken Splines

A damaged screen spline for your screen is just as frustrating as damaged frames or doors. It may appear to be something minor that could be ignored, but letting it go long enough can allow pests like mosquitoes and flies to get through. This can quickly turn into the issue of a bigger scale that could lead to costly repairs or a new screen door.

It is simple to repair a damaged spline, particularly with the right tools. First, you'll need to remove the old spline from the screen door. You can do this by laying the frame of the screen door flat on any surface, like a table or ground. Use a screwdriver to pry open the free end of the spline, and then pull it out. If the spline appears to be particularly damaged or brittle, you might notice that it cracks as you attempt to pull it out of the groove.

While you are pulling out the old spline, ensure that you take off any caulking used to hold the spline in place. This will help ensure that the new spline fits properly in the grooves.

Use a utility blade to trim the excess screen around the frame once you have removed the old spline. This will ensure a tight and clean fit across the entire frame when you install the spline.

Installing the new spline is easy after you have cleaned the frame and cut the new material to size. Start with the short side of the frame. Incorporate the spline into the screen channel using the splining device. Continue to roll the spline, pressing it into as you go. Repeat this process on each side of the frame. While you work make sure to keep the screen taut by using spring clamps or tape.

Repeat the process on the opposite side once you've completed the splining of all the short sides. Finally, finish by splining the top and bottom of the frame.