Whether you’re repairing an old window screen or replacing it with a new one, measuring the screen is a must. Having said that, measuring your window screens must be done with great care and precise accuracy in order to ensure the perfect fit. A screen that does not fit properly into a window opening will not only look unattractive, it can also be inefficient.
Before you start measuring, keep the following tips in mind first:
- Measure to the nearest 1/16 inch.
- Always measure to the outside edge of the window’s screen frame.
- Measure as close to the corners as possible, as the middle can sometimes be bowed.
- Make note of any springs, clips, or other types of hardware and where they are located.
- Measure the size of the frame – the most common is 5/16″ x 3/4″
The following are some of the more typical screens that will require measuring.
Single Hung Half Window Screens
These usually just cover the bottom portion of the window, and many times they either have leaf springs, ram horn clips, or tension springs that can be at the top and lift tabs at the bottom.
Single Hung Windows
These types of screens only open up from the bottom and are generally constructed using aluminum. They’re typically installed in tracks at the top and bottom on the outside of the window. Newer models are often made of vinyl and can be installed from the inside.
Horizontal Half Window Screens
These generally cover up the left portion of the window when looking at them from the outside. Many times they have either tension springs or leaf springs on one side and lift tabs on the other.
Horizontal Windows
These are typically made of aluminum and are opened by sliding the window sideways. They generally install in tracks that are located on the left and right sides on the outside of the window. Some of the newer single hung window models are made of vinyl and can be installed from the inside.
Double Hung Full Window Screens
As the name suggests, these screens typically cover the whole window. They generally come with a horizontal crossbar to add more strength where the top and bottom window meet. Double hung windows open up from the top and bottom and can be made out of wood or aluminum. Older models open up from the bottom only.
Attachment hardware varies a great deal across various window manufacturers. Some hardware is specifically made for wood windows – referred to as “wood window hardware” – and comes with wire loops that are attached to the bottom of the window screen and hook over ball head screws in the window sill.
Doctor Screen – Taking the Guesswork Out of Your Window Screen Measurements and Installation
While it’s helpful to understand the different types of window screens and how each should be measured and attached to their openings, the job can be made a lot simpler by hiring the experts in window screen installation. By employing the services of Doctor Screen, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing that your screens will be meticulously measured for the perfect fit each and every time.
Call your local Doctor Screen distributor today!