How to Replace Screen Windows. 

You can save money by replacing window screens yourself. It is a bit tricky, but with care and patience it’s usually a fast learning curve.

First, remove the old window screen from the window frame.   

Second, put it on a hard surface big enough to support the entire unit.   

Third, pull off the rubber edging from the old screen.

Fourth, pull out the old screening.         

Fifth, measure the new screening from a roll of replacement material. Measure to the outer edge of the screen frame, then leave a bit more all the way around.      

Sixth, lay the screening down on the frame.       

Seventh, Measure and cut a length of new rubber edging that will wrap around all four sides of the screen.

 Eighth, use a screen rolling tool – similar to a small pizza cutter - and, starting in a corner, slowly and firmly press the rubber edging back into the groove, sandwiching the screening into the frame.  Work all the way around the screen.     

Ninth, trim any excess screen material with a razor knife.          

And finally, return the screen into the window.

Throughout the process, be careful not to bend fragile aluminum screen frames.

As you replace your screens, it's a good time to closely inspect your windows and window frames. While new vinyl windows or other types can be expensive at first, they usually pay for themselves over several years do to increased energy efficiency. The first step is to research various companies and get an idea of cost, to determine if it's viable at this time.  It's been estimated that 30% of preventable heat loss in older houses is due to heat escaping through older, inefficient windows.