Screen Door Replacement and Repair

The amount of time needed for screen door replacements depends on several factors, such as the type of door, the size of the opening, and the condition of the existing door frame–not to mention your level of experience with these types of repairs. For standard doors, the process typically takes an experienced professional around an hour from start to finish.

However, for non-standard sizes or custom designs, the timeline may be slightly longer due to the need for tailored adjustments or additional materials. If you opt for the help of a screen door replacement professional, they’ll typically provide you with a window of time needed to get the job done right.

Yes, replacing a screen door in a non-standard size is manageable, especially with the right tools and preparation. For slightly smaller adjustments, such as trimming a standard screen door to fit, basic tools like a hacksaw or utility knife can often do the trick. Filler strips or minor modifications can address any gaps in the frame.

However, the process becomes a bit more complex when dealing with significant size discrepancies or custom frame designs. In these cases, you might need to order a custom-sized replacement screen door, make precise cuts, and reinforce the edges to ensure it holds up over time. If the adjustments aren’t done right, the door could end up misaligned, hard to use, or even a little wobbly. In these more technical cases, hiring a professional to customize and install the screen door ensures a seamless fit and lasting results.

Small tears can often be fixed in four steps with a mesh repair kit, which typically includes adhesive patches for your screen door repair.

• Clean the Area: Wipe around the tear to ensure the surface is clean and free of debris.
• Cut a Patch: Use screen material slightly larger than the tear. For a seamless look, match the existing screen material.
• Apply Adhesive: Dab waterproof screen adhesive around the tear and press the patch over it. Smooth it down to ensure a secure bond.
• Seal Both Sides: For extra durability, apply adhesive to both sides of the patch and let it dry completely.

This simple fix will have your screen door looking great and functioning properly again!

Fixing a mesh screen door with significant damage or tears often involves replacing part or all of the screen. If you have some handyman skills and the proper tools, you may be able to tackle the screen door repair on your own, or you can hire a trusted service professional to complete the following steps:

• Remove the Damaged Screen: Use a flathead screwdriver to lift and remove the rubber spline (the cord holding the screen in place) from the door frame. Carefully pull out the old, torn mesh.
• Cut the New Screen: Lay the replacement mesh over the frame, ensuring it overlaps the edges by at least an inch on all sides. Cut the screen to size with scissors or a utility knife.
• Install the New Mesh: Place the new screen over the frame, keeping it tight. Use a spline roller to press the rubber spline back into the groove, starting at one corner and working your way around the frame. Check that the screen remains tight and smooth as you work.
• Trim the Excess: Once the spline is fully secured, trim away the excess screen with a utility knife, cutting close to the spline for a clean finish.

Pro Tips: For heavy-duty or pet-resistant screens, apply extra tension during installation to prevent sagging. If the spline is old or damaged, you may need to replace it for a stronger hold.