Any tips on how to replace the screen mesh in a screen window frame?

Question

I know basically how it is done: remove rubber strip from the groove then lift out the old screen, lay down the new screen and then use a little tool that has a wheel to press the rubber strip into the groove. I'm looking for tips to make it easier and to get it done right the first time. Do I trim the new mesh to fit before putting the rubber strip back in or cut it a couple of inches bigger all around, then put in the rubber strip and trim to fit? What's the best way to keep the tension on the mesh so there are no lumps and the mesh is tight? Anything would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

Dfm · Answer

okay...been there done that.....find a table to work on, get your spline and a tool to cut it with, and your screen material, and 1 red brick. i used a flexible vynal screen material, and your wheel. you do not trim until the screen is secured.
cut screen material about 2 inches bigger than the window frame. lay it across the frame. add red brick to middle. remove old spline flat head screw driver works.
start at top, in the middle and work the splining in place- work from middle out to edges. do the same to anchor the bottom of the screen.
keep the red brick in place, repeat for the sides- anchor the middle, work the spline in place from middle out. evaluate the screen...does it appear to look correct, if so trim excess screening to make it neat, remove brick and re install.

Dfm · Answer

every screen in this 50's fixer had torn screens when i bought it. 12 of them.

Any tips on how to replace the screen mesh in a screen window frame?

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Any tips on how to replace the screen mesh in a screen window frame?

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