If your sliding screen door has a screen that’s barely there, it’s time to replace it. This is an easy home improvement — anyone can do it! Just follow these directions.
You’ll Need:
- Rubber Spline
- Spline Rolling Tool
- New Screen
- Pliers
1. Remove Sliding Screen Door from the Track
The easiest way to remove a damaged screen from a sliding door is to remove the door from the track and lay it flat. Working vertically is tedious, but tackling this chore on a horizontal surface is more user-friendly.
2. Pull the Rubber Spline
Use pliers to pull the rubber spline from the narrow channel that surrounds the opening. Save this spline. If it’s in good shape, it can be re-used. If not, you’ll need to match the size and length with new material.
3. Measure the Opening
Measure the sliding screen door’s opening so you can purchase a new screen. Replacement pieces should be a couple of inches larger than the opening in both directions.
Remember: It’s better to have more screen than you need, because you can always trim the excess. On the other hand, if the replacement screen is too short, there’s no option except to purchase the proper-size screen.
4. Install the New Screen
Lay the sliding door’s new screen over the frame with overlap on all sides before you begin pressing one end of the rubber spline into the channel. A spline rolling tool makes this job much easier.
Begin in a corner and work your way around the frame, keeping the screen tight as you go. It may be helpful to have one person roll while another holds the screen tight.
5. Trim the Excess
Once the sliding door’s screen is secure, use a utility knife to carefully trim the excess screen outside the spline channel.
That’s all there is to it — watch the video above to see the entire process!
