Window screens take a beating during hail season in Colorado Springs. Late summer storms can show up fast and leave screens dented, torn, or stretched out of place. Hail doesn’t have to be huge to cause problems either. Even smaller chunks of ice can punch holes through mesh or pop the spline loose from the frame. If your screens have been hit recently, it’s a good idea to look them over before the damage leads to more serious issues.
A damaged screen can let in bugs or cause air leaks around your windows. When cooler temperatures start rolling in during September, you want your home sealed up and comfortable. Fixing screens now not only keeps your indoor air cleaner but also extends the lifespan of your windows. This article walks you through how to check your window screens after a hailstorm, what you’ll need for repairs, and how to get the job done right.
Assessing the Damage
Before jumping straight into a repair, take time to inspect each window screen carefully. Some types of hail damage are easy to spot. Others are subtle but can still lead to issues down the line.
Here are the most common signs to look for:
– Small holes or tears in the mesh, often near the middle
– Spline, the black rubber cord that holds the mesh in place, may be loose or popping out
– Bends or dents in the metal or vinyl frame
– Mesh that’s sagging or no longer stretched tightly across the opening
Remove the screen from the window and hold it up to the sunlight to clearly see any problems. Start by checking the side of the house that took the brunt of the hailstorm. You can check the other sides over time.
If the issues are limited to minor tears or a loose spline, you may be able to salvage the screen. Frames that are bent out of shape or no longer fit the window properly often call for a full replacement. Make notes of which screens need a closer fix and set them aside for now.
Gathering The Necessary Tools And Materials
Once you’ve figured out which screens need attention, the next step is gathering your supplies so everything is ready to go.
Here’s a list of tools and materials commonly needed to repair a window screen:
– Replacement screen mesh (fiberglass or aluminum)
– Spline (make sure the diameter matches your existing frame)
– Spline roller tool
– Utility knife or sharp scissors
– Flathead screwdriver (to help remove the old spline)
If your frame is damaged, grab a repair kit that includes corner connectors and frame sections you can cut to size.
Most of these items are easy to find at local home improvement stores in Colorado Springs. If you’re unsure about sizing, bring along a piece of your old screen or spline so store staff can help you match it.
Take care when handling tools like utility knives. They’re sharp and can cut you as easily as they cut mesh. Work slowly when trimming material, and take breaks if you plan to do more than one screen in a day. Having everything ready upfront keeps your project on track and helps prevent careless mistakes.
Step-By-Step Guide To Repairing Window Screens
Fixing a damaged window screen might sound tricky, but with a little time and the right method, you can get it done smoothly. Here’s how to do it:
1. Remove The Damaged Screen
Take the screen frame out of the window. You may need a screwdriver to loosen any that are snugly fit. Lay the frame on a flat surface where you can work comfortably.
2. Measure And Cut New Mesh
Roll out your new mesh over the frame. Cut it so there’s about an inch of extra mesh on all sides. This gives you room to press it firmly into the spline groove.
3. Attach New Mesh Using Spline
Place the spline along the edge of the mesh and press it into the groove using your spline roller. Start at one corner and move slowly all the way around. Keep tension consistent so the mesh stays tight and smooth.
4. Trim Excess Material
Once the mesh is secure, trim the extra material from the outside of the spline with a knife or scissors. Work carefully to keep edges neat without pulling the mesh loose.
5. Reattach The Screen Frame
With everything trimmed and in place, return the screen to the window. It should fit snugly, latch in properly, and look neat.
Each time you do this process, it gets easier and more efficient. The repair doesn’t require special training, but a steady hand and patience go a long way.
Preventative Measures For Future Hail Damage
Fixing your screens is a big help now, but thinking ahead can keep you from repeating the process after future storms. Here’s how to protect your window screens from hail damage down the road:
– Removable Protective Barriers
Install lightweight shields or storm windows that can be removed when not needed. These act as a buffer between hail and your screens and are easy to store.
– Storm Guards
These are fixed or removable guards designed to absorb the brunt of hail impacts. Some clip onto window frames, making them simple to install before a storm.
– Routine Maintenance
Even small tears or loosened spline can weaken a screen against future storms. Check your screens every few months, especially after heavy winds or rain.
– Professional Services
If you don’t want to deal with this kind of repair again, expert help is available. Professional screen repair in Colorado Springs gives you peace of mind and helps ensure your windows stay protected no matter the weather.
Keeping Your Home Safe and Comfortable
Repairing damaged window screens isn’t just about making things look nice. It affects how your home holds up against Colorado weather. Bug-free airflow, reduced drafts, and smoother functioning windows are all benefits of keeping your screens in top shape.
If your screens are showing signs of hail damage, don’t wait. With cooler air on the way, now is the perfect time to take care of it. Whether you handle one screen or many, even small fixes can make a difference in your comfort and your home’s efficiency. And when you need help beyond what you can tackle yourself, a professional is just a call away.
FAQs
– How do I know if my window screen needs repair or replacement?
Check the mesh for rips or holes and the spline for looseness. If the screen sags or the frame is bent, replacement may be easier.
– What is the best type of screen material for hail-prone areas?
Aluminum offers better durability, while fiberglass is flexible and simpler to work with. Both handle Colorado hail fairly well.
– Can I repair my window screen myself, or should I hire a professional?
You can do it with the right tools and care, but professionals ensure a longer-lasting result, especially for multiple or tricky screens.
– How long does a typical window screen repair take?
It usually takes about 30 minutes per screen once you get the hang of it. Your first one may take a bit longer.
– What preventative measures can I take to protect my window screens from hail in the future?
Add storm guards, use removable barriers, and schedule regular inspections to catch and fix small issues before they become big ones.
Complete Window Care is ready to assist you with any screen issues you may encounter. Maintain a comfortable environment and prevent further damage by addressing hail-related wear before it worsens. For expert help right here in town, learn more about our window screen repair in Colorado Springs. Our team is here to make sure your screens are restored quickly and professionally, so your home stays protected year-round.