How to Rescreen Patio Door

Rescreening a patio door is a straightforward home improvement project that can breathe new life into your door while enhancing its functionality. Over time, screens can become torn, loose, or worn out, reducing their effectiveness in keeping insects out and letting fresh air in. By learning how to rescreen your patio door, you can save money on professional repairs and enjoy the satisfaction of completing the task yourself.

This guide on how to rescreen patio door will walk you through the essential tools, materials, and steps needed to replace your patio door screen efficiently and effectively.

Why Rescreen Your Patio Door?

There are several reasons why you may need to rescreen your patio door. Over time, screens can become damaged or worn out due to exposure to sunlight, harsh weather conditions, and regular wear and tear. This can result in tears, holes, or sagging of the screen mesh. Additionally, pets or children can also cause damage to the screen by scratching or pushing against it.

Rescreening your patio door is a cost-effective solution compared to replacing the entire door. It allows you to replace only the damaged part of the screen while retaining the existing frame and hardware. This not only saves money but also reduces waste and is an environmentally friendly option.

Tools Needed

Before you begin the rescreening process, make sure you have all the necessary tools on hand. These include:

• Screwdriver
• Utility Knife
• Scissors
• Screen Spline Roller Tool

Materials Needed

In addition to tools, you will also need some materials to complete the rescreening project. These include:

• New Screen Mesh (Fiberglass or Aluminum)
• Spline (Rubber or Vinyl)
• Tape Measure
• Pencil or Marker
• Clean Cloth

8 Steps on How to Rescreen Patio Door

Step 1: Remove the Old Screen 

To start, carefully remove the patio door from its track and place it on a flat, stable surface. Use a screwdriver to detach any hardware or screws securing the screen, such as the handle or rollers, if necessary. Once the frame is free, locate the spline, the rubber or vinyl strip securing the old screen in the frame. With the help of a flathead screwdriver or the utility knife, gently pry out the spline, taking care not to damage the groove in the frame.

Slowly pull the old screen mesh out of the frame and set it aside for disposal. Wipe down the frame with a clean cloth to remove any dirt or debris, ensuring a smooth surface for the new screen installation.

Step 2: Measure and Cut the New Screen Mesh

Using a tape measure, carefully measure the dimensions of the patio door frame. Add an extra inch to each side for overhang when cutting the new screen mesh. This will ensure a snug fit in the frame.

Mark these measurements on the new screen mesh using a pencil or marker. Use scissors or a utility knife to cut along the marked lines.

Step 3: Install the New Screen Mesh 

Lay the cut screen mesh over the patio door frame, ensuring it overlaps the edges evenly on all sides. Starting at one corner, press the spline into the groove of the frame on top of the screen mesh to secure it. Use the screen spline roller tool to firmly push the spline into the groove, stretching and holding the screen mesh in place as you work your way around the frame. 

Move methodically, pressing the spline into one side at a time while keeping the screen taut to avoid wrinkles or sagging. If the mesh becomes misaligned, gently pull it back out and readjust before continuing. Once all sides are secured and the spline is fully seated, trim the excess screen mesh along the outer edges of the frame with a utility knife to give a clean finish. Be careful not to cut into the newly installed mesh.

Step 4: Replace the Screen Door in the Track 

Once the new screen mesh is securely installed and the edges are trimmed, it’s time to replace the patio door in its track. Carefully lift the door and position it back onto the track, ensuring it is properly aligned. If you removed any hardware, such as rollers or the handle, reattach them securely using a screwdriver.

Test the door by sliding it back and forth to confirm the smooth operation. Make any necessary adjustments to the alignment or hardware to ensure the door fits and functions correctly. This step completes the rescreening process, leaving you with a refreshed, functional patio door.

Step 5: Clean Up 

After finishing the rescreening process and ensuring the patio door is functioning properly, take a moment to tidy up your workspace. Gather all leftover materials, such as the old screen mesh, excess spline, and any trimmed pieces of the new screen, and dispose of them appropriately.

Clean your tools, such as the screen spline roller and utility knife, to ensure they’re ready for future use. Wipe down the patio door frame and the surrounding area to remove any dust or debris from the installation process. A clean and orderly workspace will leave you feeling accomplished and ready to enjoy your newly rescreened patio door.

Step 6: Troubleshooting 

If you encounter any issues during or after the rescreening process, there are a few common problems to check and resolve. 

Screen Wrinkles or Sagging:

If the screen appears loose or has wrinkles, it may not have been stretched tight enough during installation. To fix this, carefully remove the spline from the affected area, pull the screen tight, and reinstall the spline using the screen spline roller tool.  

Screen Won’t Stay in Place: 

If the screen keeps popping out of the groove, it could be due to an incorrect spline size. Make sure you are using the correct size for your patio door frame and that it is fully inserted into the groove. Alternatively, the screen mesh may not have been pushed deep enough into the frame during installation. Use a screwdriver or flathead tool to gently push it in further before reinstalling the spline.

Step 7: Maintenance Tips 

To prevent frequent rescreening, there are some simple maintenance tips you can follow to keep your patio door screens in good condition:

• Clean regularly with a mild soap and water solution
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials
• Replace damaged screens as soon as possible
• Keep pets away from the screens to avoid scratches and tears

Step 8: Conclusion 

Rescreening your patio door is a simple project that can make a big difference in the appearance, functionality, and energy efficiency of your home. With just a few tools, materials, and steps, you can have a refreshed screen door that will keep out insects, dirt, and debris while allowing fresh air to circulate.

By following these eight steps on how to rescreen patio door and practicing regular maintenance, your new screen will provide years of protection and enjoyment for you and your home. Happy rescreening!

Additional Tips

• Consider using a screen repair kit for small holes or tears in your existing screen mesh before opting to replace the entire thing.
• If you have multiple patio doors, consider purchasing a roll of screen mesh and installing it on all doors at once for convenience and cost-effectiveness.
• Take your time when measuring and cutting the new screen mesh to ensure accuracy. Mistakes can lead to wasted materials and an ill-fitting screen.
• For added durability, opt for a fiberglass or metal screen mesh rather than traditional nylon or polyester options.  This is especially important if you have pets that may scratch or damage the screen.
• If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, such as high winds or heavy rain, consider adding an extra layer of screen mesh for added protection. This can also help to prolong the life of your screen.
• If you choose to use a utility knife to cut the screen mesh, be sure to exercise caution and always cut away from yourself to avoid injuries.  Always use proper safety precautions when handling sharp tools.
• Don’t forget to measure and mark the location of any hardware or handle holes before cutting the new screen mesh, as you will need to reattach these during installation.
• If you encounter any difficulties during the rescreening process, don’t hesitate to seek professional help or consult online tutorials for additional guidance.  DIY projects are great, but it’s always important to prioritize safety and accuracy.  Happy rescreening!

Final Thoughts 

Rescreening your patio door is a manageable DIY task that requires patience, precision, and a few basic tools. With the proper preparation and following the detailed steps on how to rescreen patio door outlined above, your screen door can be restored to full functionality, enhancing your home’s ventilation and keeping unwanted pests out.

A well-done rescreening project not only improves the aesthetics of your patio door but also extends its lifespan and enhances your living space’s overall comfort.

By maintaining your screens regularly and addressing minor wear and tear promptly, you can enjoy the benefits of a reliable and attractive patio door for years to come. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or tackling this project for the first time, the satisfaction of completing it yourself is truly rewarding. Happy rescreening!