Preparing the Surface To Be Painted

The exterior wood must be prepared to receive the paint and primer. This is the most important step. If not prepped properly the paint could chip, peel and adhere poorly.

Spend a little extra time inspecting, cleaning and repairing the wood to be painted.

Determining The Wood’s Condition

What you are looking for is loose flaking paint, rot, signs of insect infestation, mold and soft spots in the wood. If flaking scrape the paint.

Rot and damaged areas must be repaired before painting. Serious rotting and major damage may require replacing the boards.

Clean The Wood Before Painting

To clean wood use a brush or power washer. What you are removing is dust, dirt mold or anything else that will negatively effect the adhesion and finish of the paint.

Simple soap and water is all that is needed for hard to remove debris. Your paint will adhere better and look great.

Sanding

Sanding provides a smooth surface for paint to adhere to. Removing splinters and remaining old paint creates a better finish once the wood is painted. Do not damage the wood by being to aggressive during sanding.

Repairing And Primer

Make repairs by sealing cracks and filling holes with wood filler. As mentioned above sand these areas smooth.

The next step is to apply a quality exterior primer. Using a paint that includes primer will save you some time. Experts recommend priming for longevity of the paint and to promote bonding to the wood.

Using The Right Paint

Using the right paint makes all the difference in the world. Not all paints are suited for exterior weather conditions. You need a paint that is durable and resistant to fading and the elements.
If you are not sure which exterior paint to buy speak with your local paint store. 

Never use interior paint for exterior applications it will fail.

Types of Exterior Paints

• Latex Paint is easy to clean, flexible, and great for most climates.
• Oil Based is durable and thick, ideal for older wood or high-traffic areas.
• Elastomeric Paint is stretchy paint that seals cracks and prevents water damage.

Your choice should be based on your climate. If you live in a very humid area elastomeric is a good choice while latex is water based and easier to use.

Temperature And Weather

Never paint below 35 degrees Fahrenheit. Your prefered paint application temperature is between 45°F and 80°F.

Also avoid rain and high humidity conditions too much moisture in the air will delay drying and effect the quality of the paint. Avoid painting in direct sunlight try to aim for earlier morning application.

Fortunately there are home repair grants available for those who can’t afford to fix their homes. We will show you how to apply for this free money or low interest loans and what is required to be approved for a grant or low interest loan.

What are home repair grants?

Home repair grants are monies given by government or tax exempt agencies in order to help homeowners repair or upgrade their homes.

Unlike other types of bank and private loans these types of grant loans do not have to be paid back. If you pass the requirements and are approved the money for repairs is a gift from the government or a non-profit organization.

Types of home repair grants

Some of the home repair and improvement grants available:

• Federal programs: Offered by agencies like HUD or USDA.
• State and local Grants: Offered by your state, city, or county.
• Nonprofit monied: Offered by organizations like Habitat for Humanity or local charities.
• Special grants: For seniors, veterans, or disabled homeowners.

How to qualify?

Keep in mind that programs are different depending on who you apply with but here are examples of some of the qualifications.

• Your Income level cannot exceed a certain amount
• You must own the property and be a citizen of the U.S.
• Age requirements and disability status at time of application
• Providing specs of what is being repaired or improved in your home.
• Financial disclosures

Finding federal home repair grants

• HUD’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG): Geared towards low income communities.
• USDA Rural Development Housing Grants: Designed for rural homeowners in need of repairs.
• HUD’s HOME Investment Partnership Program: Provides funds that focus on safety and health related repairs.

State and local home repair grants and rebates

Go online and visit your state or city’s website. There are many programs available for energy rebates, certain appliance discounts and other programs. Your state’s housing authority and certain non-profits may offer grants for repairs or safety improvements to your home.

Also check with your local Habitat for Humanity. They are connected to housing groups that perform low cost home repairs for the elderly disabled and poor who cannot afford to pay for their own repairs. Some businesses offer home repair & improvement programs for the elderly and veterans to.

Tips for effective search

Locating programs may take some time and effort but well worth the research. Talk with your community outreach sponsors and neighbors to see if they know of any programs offering free services.

How to apply for a home repair & improvement grant

Make a list of repairs or home improvements needed. You can also have a contractor make a list and give you quotes. Take plenty of photos as proof of needed repairs.

Gather all your documentation including completed applications from programs. You will be required to provided financial information including pay stubs, bank accounts, tax returns and any other proof of income required.

You will also need to show a deed that proves you own the property where repairs are to be performed. Again make sure you have all of these documents well in advance of applying for assistance. If you need help non-profits are available to help you fill out and gather these documents.

Additional Grant Resources

• FHA Title I low interest loans
• Energy efficiency rebates and programs for new windows, insulation, caulking, solar panels and weatherstripping.
• Local & State emergency repair funds for urgent issues

Recessed lighting can also be very inefficient and waste a lot of energy. Most recessed lighting use Par or R flood lights to light a room. This form of lighting can be costly especially if you have a lot of recessed light fixtures.

LED lights are a more efficient  choice and the savings are about 75% versus other types of lighting and LED lights last much longer up to 50,000 hours.

Types Of LED Light Retrofits

There are two types of LED retrofits available. If you like the style of your current recessed fixtures you can purchase LED flood lights and just replace the bulbs.

You can also modernize your current fixtures with an LED retrofit kit. These kits are easily fitted to your current fixture in minutes without removing the can.

Retrofit kits allow you to choose from soft white lighting to bright white with the flick of a switch and are modern flush mounted to the ceiling for a clean modern look with no rewiring needed.

Why Switch Your Recessed Lighting To LED?

LED light bulbs are way more efficient save more energy last longer and have better light quality then fluorescent or incandescent light bulbs.

Many states are banning fluorescent bulbs and the retrofits for fluorescent replacements are expensive. LEDs will lower your energy bill and are better for the environment.

For Retrofits Assess Your Current Lighting

First step is to check the size of your current recessed light fixture. Measure the housing openng most are either 4″ or 6″ measured across the opening.

Also check the type of base the bulb goes into as this is where the retrofit kit will screw or plug into. For fixtures that do not have a compatible socket the Retrofit Kit can be hard wired.

Find The Correct LED Retrofit Kit For You

Not all LED retrofit kits are the same. There are universal kits that may fit your recessed lighting but be sure by check you fixture model and size.

If you want your LED light to dim make sure the one you pick can be used with a dimmer switch. Buy from reputable companies and ask for help if not sure

Safety

Always shut power off at the breaker. Test the fixture with a multi-meter to make sure power is off.

It is a also a good idea to check local electrical codes before starting. If you are not comfortable working with electrical call a professional.

Follow Manufacturer’s Step-By-Step Guide To Installation.

Each brand of LED retrofit kit has special instructions for installing their kit. This is based on the model of your existing recessed lighting.

Follow the instructions exactly as written and also read all warnings an cautions for safety.

Energy Savings and Incentives

An LED retrofit can save you 75% on your lighting energy bill. There are also local and state incentives  or rebates when installing energy efficient fixtures so check in your state.

When working with electrical and plumbing systems safety should be a priority. Read and understand all manuals that come with the appliance especially warnings before installation begins.

Picking The Right Hot Water Heater

Take note of the water heater you are replacing the make model and gallonage. Then determine if a direct replacement is needed or do you need to upgrade. Has you family grown and a bigger capacity is needed or mabe you want a more efficient  water heater.

If upgrading measure the space where the water heater is located so you can find a replacement that will fit in that space. You will need to also consider installing a stury stand or drain pan if needed.

Determine how much you want to spend for a new hot water heater. A 40 gallon standard electric water heater starts at around $350. Energy efficient water heaters can run as high as $2000 and require professional installation.

Tools and Supplies Needed

• Pipe wrenches
• Screwdrivers
• New water heater unit
• Hot;/Cold water lines
• Pressure relief valve
• Teflon tape and pipe sealant

Is A Permit Required To Replace A Water Heater?

In most cities and counties no as long as you are not changing or adding additional electrical plumbing or doing any structural work. If you are just replacing. hooking up new waterline and reconnecting the electrical power you should be o.k.

Always check with your local building department before starting the job to be sure.

Turn Power Off And Drain The Old Water Heater

Locate your electrical panel for the house and turn off the breaker to the water heater. Place tape across the breaker and write “Don’t Touch” on the tape. Then shut the water supply off at the water heater.

The wiring for the water heater is located on the top. Make sure you cap the wires using electrical connectors when disconnecting.

Attach a water hose to the spigot valve located at the bottom of the water heater to drain the water heater. Run the hose outside and open the valve (Caution water will be very hot). Open some faucets in the house by turning on hot side to aid draining.

Removing the Old Water Heater

Once drained with a pipe wrench remove the water lines mark which is hot and cold. Do not reuse the old water lines.

Then disconnect the power from the water heater. Typically the power is connected on top of the water heater. You may need some help removing the old water heater as they are heavy.

If already on ground level use a hand dolly to move and store until you can properly dispose or recycle it. Prepare the space for the new water heater.

Installing the New Water Heater

The new water heater must be place on a level surface. Strap the water heater securely to the wall with approved straps. Install the new water lines using the teflon tape and snug.  Install a new correct pressure relief valve. Do not use the old one. Check for leaks when filled. Re-connect the electrical.

Make sure the spigot for draining the water heater is closed. Open the cold water valve to fill the water heater slowly. To remove air open the closest faucet using the hot valve. Check for leaks as the heater is filling. Once filled you can turn on the breaker and power up.

Set water heater temperature as recommended by the manufacturer.

Fortunately, there are several ways to keep pests out – from professional services to DIY solutions – so your family can live free from unwanted critters.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the common household pests, offer prevention strategies for keeping them away, and give maintenance tips to keep them away for good.

Identifying Pests

Pests can potentially wreak havoc on residences, commercial establishments, and outdoor areas. They come in all shapes and sizes, meaning you’ll need to adopt specific strategies and look out for various indicators of an infestation.

Common Household Pests:

From mice to cockroaches, all sorts of pests will happily setup shop in your home if given half a chance.

Possible signs of an infestation include droppings or tracks left behind by rodents, webs created by spiders, or egg sacs produced by insects such as silverfish. You’ll want to keep an eye out for the following signs of critters in your home:

• Small holes in walls or floors where rodents have chewed through
• Gnaw marks on wood furniture caused by mice or rats
• Live insects crawling inside your home
• Foul odors coming from areas with high moisture levels like basements or attics.

Kitchen cabinets and pantry shelves are often affected, as the food stored in them acts as a draw. In addition, cracks in walls and floors provide access points for pests into your home. These entries are typically near plumbing fixtures. It is also crucial to check around window sills and door sills since these spots often contain gaps perfect for a critter to fit through.

Make sure to observe mud tubes near foundation walls, listen carefully for scratching noises from within the walls, and be on the lookout for dead insects or other pests on floors or countertops

Knowing the most common household pests, signs of infestation, and areas to inspect will help prepare for the next step: prevention strategies.

Prevention Strategies

The best time to take preventative steps is when you’re moving into your new home. Follow the strategies below while the house is empty and before unpacking all of your stuff. And, of course, you want to make sure you don’t bring any critters in the moving boxes from your old home.

Regardless of whether you’re just moving in or have lived in the same place for years, securing your home requires a layered approach to be effective. In particular, you’ll want to seal cracks and crevices, install screens on windows and doors, repair damaged weather-stripping around windows or doors, and ensure all vents have tight-fitting covers.

One of the most important steps is regularly cleaning your home. So, put dishes away and be sure to keep rooms free of clutter.

Vacuuming weekly can help remove food particles that may attract pests into your home. Make sure you empty garbage cans often and store them away from living areas.

Chemical treatments can prevent infestations, too, but they should only be utilized when necessary due to their potential health hazards.

Pesticides come in many forms, including sprays, bait traps, and dusts. Some products are more suited to outdoor use, so be sure to check before use.

Professional Services

Professional services are a crucial part of pest control. These services include extermination, removal, and other specialized treatments to help keep pests away from your home.

Pest control professionals can inspect your property and offer recommendations for securing it from infestations, such as sealing up entry points.

If prevention ends up being unsuccessful, your best bet is to still hire an expert to deal with the critters. Exterminators use best practices and the latest tools to eradicate existing infestations and prevent new ones from occurring. They will also have access to more potent products than those found in stores and have the expertise to administer them safely and effectively.

The cost of bringing in an expert varies and will depend on the severity of the infestation and the kind(s) of vermin present. You should get estimates before you make a commitment so you don’t get any unwanted surprises down the line.

DIY Solutions

DIY solutions offer an eco-friendly way to protect your home from unwelcome visitors without resorting to potentially hazardous chemicals or store-bought products. Indeed, natural repellents and traps can deter pests from entering your home in the first place.

Consider the following options:

• Essential oils: The scent of peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender, and tea tree oil have strong scents that can repel insects. You can use a spray or diffuser.
• Vinegar: Mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle and apply it at potential entry points in your home.
• Citrus: Lemons, limes, and oranges work just like essential oils. You can mix citrus juice and water in a spray or diffuser.
• Garlic: Garlic is another effective repellent. First, crush garlic cloves and mix them with water to make a spray.
• Catnip: One of the more surprising options is catnip. It possesses a natural chemical that’s remarkably effective at deterring insects like ants, cockroaches, and mosquitoes.

While natural repellents can be effective, they may not be as long-lasting as store-bought chemical pesticides. You’ll also need to use caution when using essential oils if you have pets or live with anyone who has allergies.

Learning to do these repairs yourself can save you thousands of dollars a year while maintaining the value of your home.

Know before You Buy

Having knowledge in basic home repairs before you start searching for a new home will help you weed out homes with serious problems that can cost you down the road. For example loose and damaged roofing shingles could be a minor fix or mean the home needs a $20,000 new roof.

If you don’t know what to look for you could miss this costly repair. We explain how you can gain knowledge in home repair and maintenance.

Things new homeowners should look for

Some of the things you should be looking for when you buy a house are rotted wood at the roofline which could mean new gutters are needed, signs of prior repairs like patched concrete or siding. Something as simple as puddling water at an exterior water spigot could mean leaking pipes.

While not a deal breaker you do need to expect that you or a contractor will have to do the repairs if needed.

Learning to do your own repairs can be as easy as visiting your local Lowes or Home Depot. These brands offer classes in things like tile repair and installation, fence building and how to install windows.

Home inspection and repairs

Having just some knowledge in basic home repairs will help you during the purchase of a home. A majority of homes for sale require a home inspection.

A home inspection is performed by a professional home inspector. They will inspect the condition of the entire house and provide a report. Knowing basic home repair will help you understand the report and give you better negotiating power with the seller.

For example the home inspector notes dry rot on the wooden facia behind the rain gutters in several areas you can then ask the seller to adjust the asking price to allow for the cost of repairs or ask the seller to repair these areas prior to closing.

Home repairs to focus on

Plumbing repairs should be a priority. A professional plumber charges upward of $50 an hour. Learning to install plumbing fixtures, cleaning out clogged drains and repairing your yard’s sprinkler system are just a couple of plumbing repairs you can do yourself.

Let us not forget about home maintenance. A yearly inspection of your property including sidewalks your driveway and outbuildings must be a priority. Catching problems early will save you money in the long run.

Keeping up with caulking windows painting weathered siding and filling cracks in your driveway don’t require a lot of skill and should be a regular part of your home maintenance routine.

Major repairs

Major repairs or home improvements like replacing countertops and pipe leaks can be learned quite easily by refering to sites like Homefixhandbook.com and viewing YouTube videos for instruction. You don’t always have to call a contractor.

If you find a job too complicated or it requires a licensed professional to perform the job safely then by all means give a contractor a call.

Some building codes require a licensed contractor. Before you start any project that involves changing the structure of your home or rerouting plumbing and electrical check with your local building department first.

Epoxy products for painting garage floors seal the concrete with a glossy easy to clean surface that is attractive and requires minimal maintenance.

Epoxy verses regular paint for garage floors

Epoxies are very durable paints. Regular latex or even oil based paints are no match for epoxy floor coatings.

As an example hot tires from a truck that just came off the freeway would tear up regular paints. Epoxy penetrates properly prepared concrete forming a tight and durable bond that latexes or oils can’t. On average epoxy floor coatings can last 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance.

Other benefits of epoxy coatings
Epoxy garage floor paint can handle chemicals like motor oil, battery acid and gas spills. Dropped tools, heavy foot traffic and hot tires are no match for epoxy coated floors.

Applying an epoxy garage floor coating will save you money and time wasted cleaning your garage floor..

Epoxy Chemistry

Regular latex based floor paint doesn’t bond to concrete garage floors like epoxy does. This lack of bonding results in cracking and loose flaky paint which is basically failure of the latex paint.

Using a urethane will get you better results but has poor bonding to concrete. Epoxy has a chemical bond with the concrete. 100% solids epoxy is the best product for a garage floor coating. Avoid Water-based epoxies too as they don’t last very long.

How to prepare and apply epoxy to a garage floor

Preparing the concrete floor to receive the epoxy is key to achieving a successful application. You want to start with a complete inspection of the concrete slab.

Any repairs or cleaning up o⁹f oil spills should take place first. Any moisture in the concrete can ruin the epoxy finish . To determine if moisture is present cover the entire floor with plastic sheeting for 24 hours.
If water beads under the the sheeting moisture is present.

Any cracks need sealed with epoxy past then sanded smooth once cured. Sealed areas keep moisture out. All crumbling or chips also need to be repaired too.

To grind or not to grind that is the question

Bonding requires either acid etching the concrete floor before painting or mechanical grinding to rough up the concrete for bonding. Acid etching is fine for residential but in any commercial application grinding the surface is prefered.

If you want to mechanical grind the floor at your home go for it as the bond will last much longer. Rent a diamond grinder from a rental yard for about $50 a day.

Deep cleaning and degreasing
Vac the garage thoroughly. Scrub the entire garage floor with an industrial degreaser. Let it dry then power wash. If you encountwr tough stains use a citrus cleaner. Make sure you test areas by checking if water beads on the surface. If beading repeat the cleaning steps.

Application & cure time

The cure time for epoxy for foot traffic is 24 hours. If cars or trucks will be parked the cure time is 72 hours minimum. Curing temp should be between 60 to 80 degrees with a humidity under 60%.

Follow the directions on your epoxy label for primer application if needed, dry times and maintenance.

Maintenance

For a long life to your epoxy floor regular maintenance is vital. Sweep the floor weekly and mop with a nutral cleaner monthly.

Make repairs while they are small before they spread. Clean spills and stains using a mild cleaner. Avoid bleach and abrasives.

The Benefits Of Acid Washing Your Hot Tub

Acid washing means using a strong acid solution to clean the surface of your spa. It helps remove tough stains, calcium deposits, and algae that regular cleaning misses. Unlike scrubbing with chemicals or using deep cleaning equipment, acid washing targets built-up grime on the surface. It’s quick but powerful, making your spa look brand new again.

Why Acid Washing Is Essential

Stubborn stains and aggressive chemicals like chlorine can dull your hot tub’s surfaces. Experts say that acid washing when done correctly will improve water quality, prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your in-ground hot tub surface.

When To Acid Wash Your Hot Tub

There are signs to look out for to know when it is time to acid wash your hot tub. Cloudy water that does not clear up after filtering is one sign. If you start to see algae growing and staining of the bottom and walls it is time. Every 1-2 years or more if your hot tub is used frequently you should acid wash your hot tub. If you wait too long the staining can become permanent resulting in costly repairs. 

Preparing for Acid Washing Safety First

Hot tubs are acid washed with a 50-50 mixture of water and Muriatic Pool Acid. This mixture is dangerous to breath and can burn the skin so be very careful. You will need to wear heavy waterproof gloves, goggles use a respirator long sleeved shirt and pants while performing this procedure. Read the entire label on the Muriatic Acid bottle before using.
Use a pool test kit to monitor pH levels in the water and baking soda to stop the pH levels in the water from getting too high. Mix acid carefully in a well-ventilated area, following manufacturer instructions.

Step By Step Acid Washing Instructions

Drain the hot tub. Once empty, remove loose debris/dirt from the floor and walls with a scrub brush.

Put on all safety equipment first. Prepare the acid solution in a spray bottle that does not leak add 50% water and 50% Muriatic Acid to the spray bottle and mix.

Working in sections start at the floor of the hot tub then 2 inches up the floor wall. Spray the floor evenly with the solution. You know the acid is working if it bubbles or you see discoloration. Allow to work for 10-15 minutes then rinse with clean water using a water hose until there is no smell of acid. Once rinsed neutralize the standing water with baking soda solution.

Continue working your way up the walls, then the steps and out of the hot tub. At any time you can drain the diluted standing water in the hot tub. Just remember to neutralize the water again several times as the project progresses. If you get any of the acid solution on your skin or clothes remove them right away or wash your skin immediately with fresh water. If you get it in your eyes flush with clean water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Repeating the process may be needed on tough stains.

Inspection and Water Chemistry Adjustment

Inspect the hot tub for any missed spots and treat if needed. Check the hot tub for any cracks and note damage. Once all diluted acid water is drained from the hot tub you can refill it and adjust the chemicals.

When finish triple rinse the spray bottle with water and wash your clothes.

The addition of periodic algaecide and mineral inhibitors work great when encountering heavy deposits or excessive algae in your hot tub. A routine maintenance and water chemistry testing program will help you keep your spa looking and performing it’s best. Draining your spa should be done every 3-6 months during use.

What Is Cultured Marble?

Cultured marble is a smooth resin based man made product designed to look like real marble but for a fraction of the cost. Sinks and other products are formed from molds in a factory. Cultured Marble comes in a variety of colors and patterns for use in kitchen and bathrooms.

Typical Signs of Damage Found With Cultured Marble

Around the home you will find common insulation types with varying costs, R-values, and installation needs. Assume that you choose materials by location, moisture exposure, and required R-value for walls, attics, and crawlspaces.

• Chipping
• Cracks at the drain
• Surface scratches
• Burns
• Staining
• Dullness or hazing

Cultured Marble is repaired with the use of a Cultured Marble Repair Kit. These kits are available from US Bath Products at usbathproducts.com The kit includes everything needed to repair any of the listed damage. 

Kit includes the resin, hardener, sandpaper, a mixing cup, application brush and instructions. You can choose the color you want or order a kit with tints to match any color.

DIY Repair Techniques for Cultured Marble

The first step in repairing cultured marble is to clean the area needing repair. Wear gloves and eye protection. Using soap and water remove dirt grime and soap film. Rinse and let dry completely. Follow the directions for use that come in the kit you purchased. The following instructions are a sample of what the procedures will be.

Repairing Chips and Cracks

Cultured marble chips and cracks require sanding the repair are with 120 grit sand paper. If the cracks are raised they can be sanded smooth to match the rest of the fixture surface with 100 grit sand paper then follow with the 120 grit sand paper. Next wipe the repair are with a paper towel wet with Acetone this will dry and evaporate any remaining moisture from the repair area.

Be sure to well ventilate the room you are working in. The product you will be working with is a 2 part epoxy resin. Mix the resin and hardener per the instructions that came in the kit. Working time is between 15-25 minutes before the epoxy hardens.

Apply the epoxy mixture using a brush included in the kit. Fill in the crack or chip including a half an inch around the repair and over any area that was sanded. Smooth and blend into the surrounding area. Let cure until completely hardened this can take up to 24 hours.

Once cured the repair area can be sanded smooth and buffed to match the sheen of the fixture.

Restoring Dull or Stained Surfaces

The cultured marble resin in the kit can also be used as a paint for restoring dull scratched or stained parts of your fixture. Mix the same way as you would for chips and cracks and apply using the supplied brush just as you would paint. The self leveling feature will fill in scratches and cover dull areas. The epoxy resin can then be polished back up to the original sheen once cured.

For stained areas and burns sand the surface until the stain is gone and use the resin to fill in any imperfections and buff once the epoxy cures.

Complete Refinishing Option For Cultured Marble

If you want your bathroom sink or cultured marble countertop to look brand new again think about completely refinishing the fixture. This process is also a do-it-yourself project. Paint is available by the quart at Lowes for about $70 keeping in mind that repairs will have to be completed before refinishing the fixture.

Fixing window screens yourself will save money, time, and give you a real sense of accomplishment. With the right tools and simple steps, you can repair or replace any window screen as a DIY project.

Components of a Window Screen

A typical window screen has several key parts. The mesh is the part that blocks bugs and dirt and can be made from fiberglass, aluminum  or polyester. The frame is made from aluminum and comes in different colors and widths. Rubber spline holds the mesh in place within the frame while keeping the screen mesh tight.

Fiberglass mesh is flexible and easy to repair. Aluminum offers durability but is more prone to dents. Polyester screens are often used for specialty purposes. Knowing what your screen is made from helps you choose the right repair methods.

DIY Window Screen Repair

Repairing or making your own window screens  is a pretty straight forward project. The materials you will need can be purchased from your local hardware store or online.

Tools and Materials Needed

• Flat-head screwdriver
• Utility knife or scissors
• Pliers
• Spline roller
• Replacement screen mesh
• Spline
• Replacement frame
• Frame corners
• Measuring tape
• Gloves
• Pen or marker

Measurements are very important. Measure your existing screen length by width. Also measure the width of the frame as the frames come in different widths. When ordering materials you need to know the width of your screen mesh too. Order mesh 4-6 inches wider then your existing screen width.

Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing Torn Damaged Window Screen

Remove the existing screen from the window trying not to damage the frame. Some screens have springs or clips. Once you have the screen out of the window, using a standard screwdriver gently pry out the rubber spline holding the mesh into the frame grove. Carefully remove the mesh without tearing more fabric or damaging the frame. 

Cut a new piece of mesh screen about 1- 3 inchs larger then the frame on all 4 sides. Use scissors or a utility knife on a flat surface for best results.

Installing New Mesh into the Frame

Lay the new mesh over the frame, ensuring it overlaps evenly. Starting on one side press the spline through the screen mesh and into the grove of the frame using the Spline Roller, tightening the mesh as you go. Repeat on all sides, working slowly to keep the mesh taut. If you make a mistake you can always start over.

When all sides are done, trim off excess mesh with scissors or a utility knife. Double check that the spline is securely pressed in. Reinstall the window screen back into the window

Replacing Sections Or Rebuilding The Whole Frame

To replace a single section of frame measure the broken section corner to corner with a tape measurer. Using the new frame that you purchased cut a piece of new frame to length with a hacksaw. Check to make sure the new piece is correct by placing it over the old piece. 

Cut the ends of the new frame at a 45 degree angle matching the old corners. Join the corners with plastic screen frame miter corners then tap tight with a hammer. Measure again to make sure the screen will fit properly in the window.

To make a complete frame repeat this process on all 4 sides of the new frame using the old frame as a guide for measurements. When the frame is done and measurements are rechecked follow the directions for installing new screen mesh. Make sure the new screen fits securely in the window.