Choosing when to replace a window screen is challenging enough. Add in the process of measuring to make sure you order the right size, and the project suddenly feels more daunting. Fortunately, there are some tips and tricks to know when measuring for a window screen to ensure you are ready for easier ordering and replacement.
What to Know When Measuring for a New Screen
Use a high-quality metal tape measure
Are you sure your tape measure is accurate? When many window screens need to be measured to 1/16”, you can’t just assume it’s right. While each tape measure manufacturer has its own guidelines for quality control, many budget tape measures are less reliable than high-quality ones. In particular, cloth tape measures are regularly inaccurate. It can be worth it to invest in a more reliable tape measure so you can feel confident in your measuring and ordering.
Know how to read a measuring tape
A small error can make a big difference, and knowing how to read a tape measure properly is the first step you can take to prevent any measuring mistakes.
Understanding the markings on your tape measure is essential when measuring for a new window screen. For every inch, there are 16 lines that vary in size, with the smaller size indicating a more precise measurement. Decreasing in size, your tape measure provides:
- 1”
- 1/2”
- 1/4”
- 1/8”
- 1/16”
When measuring for most window screens, the more precise measurement you know, the better. To ensure the best fit, you will want to record each measurement to 1/16th of an inch.
Don’t cut corners
It can be tempting to skip some essential steps to try to get the task done sooner. To properly measure your window screen, you need to take it out of the window. Fortunately, it’s often times easier than it sounds.
From the inside:
-
- Open the window fully.
- Tilt the screen so it is easier to remove. Screens are pretty flexible, so you should be able to maneuver it easily. If it seems stuck, check to ensure you didn’t miss any pins.
- Pull the tabs, latches, butterfly swivels, or other hardware on the screen toward you. If your screen doesn’t have tabs, it may have a pin or a latch that helps it disengage from the window.
From the outside:
- Remove the frame starting at the lower left corner. Gently push it away from the corner, which will expose more of the sides.
- Slide a putty knife or screwdriver into the gap to create more space between the screen and the frame.
- Gently tilt the screen up while pulling the screen out toward the bottom of the window.
- Use the screwdriver or putty knife to pull the right frame corner from the pocket then pull the rest of the frame down.
Take the right measurements
Don’t go through the work of taking out your window screen just to forget to take all of the measurements you need:
- Height: Measure from the top inside edge to the bottom inside edge. Be sure to measure from the deepest part of the channel.
- Width: Measure from the inside edge of you window frame to the opposite inside edge, keeping the tape measure parallel to the windowsill.
- Depth: Frame thickness (Your window screen from the side, not straight-on)
After you finish taking your measurements and before placing your order, be sure to subtract 1/8th of an inch from both the width and height.
Pro tip: Double-check your accuracy by taking measurements at different parts of the frame.
Measuring for a new screen doesn’t have to be daunting with RiteScreen
At RiteScreen, we pride ourselves on providing our customers with the most durable, long-lasting window frames that are easy to order and install. With our proprietary frame technology, you only need to know your window frame measurement to the nearest whole number, making it easier than ever to order the screen you need. Our reliable extruded window frames ship assembled, do not require on-site alterations, and are ready for you to install yourself in just five minutes.
Head to the RiteScreen store on Amazon, and have your new window screen delivered with Prime Shipping to start your DIY extruded window screen replacement project!
