Are your window screens popping out of their frame? Are you investigating how to prevent this from happening? Worry no more! We've done the research to answer your questions.
Window screens may pop out due to impact or misalignment with the frame. To resolve the issue, consider this options:
- Install a window screen tab.
- Install a rubber strip.
- Replace the frame or screen.
This article will help you understand why window screens pop out and how to prevent this from happening. We will also discuss other relevant topics. So, please read up to the end!
How to Keep Window Screens from Popping Out
Window screens can pop out due to severe wind or impact from playful pets and children. Luckily, there are some ways you can deal with this issue. Here are some options:
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Install a Window Screen Tab
A window screen tab is a small material used to stabilize the window screen against the frame. It helps to resist impact if you unintentionally slam the window close.
Installing a window screen tab is simple; you only need to find the proper tab size to use. Follow the steps below for installation:
- Use a screwdriver to pry out gently a small portion of the window screen.
- Fix the window tab into the frame while ensuring it's on the inner side of the house.
- Place the window screen on the tab and use a roller to press the screen into the frame.
- Shake the tab a bit to ensure it will not move.
You can watch this video for a demonstration:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=5xRJgRVhScM&ab_channel=CentraWindows%2CExteriors%2CRestorations
Install a Rubber Strip
Rubber strips can block rainwater and reduce the risk of window screens popping out. You can install a rubber strip with an adhesive side for a firmer hold.
See this rubber strip on Amazon.
Installing a rubber strip is relatively easy. Follow the steps below:
- Detach the window screen from the frame.
- Run the rubber strip along the edges of the window frame. You can double up the rubber strip to enhance stability. Press its adhesive side against the frame and thump it, so it fits better.
- Put the window screen back into the frame.
- . Repeat the steps on the other side of the window.
Replace the Frame or Screen
You can replace the frame to keep the screen from falling off from the edges. This solution may be viable if the existing frame is too old and weak.
Alternatively, you can replace the screen if the frame is still good enough. You can also opt to replace both depending on the window's condition.
Refer to the general steps below:
- Measure the window to find the frame size to use.
- Unscrew the existing window to remove it, then place it on a table or floor.
- Carefully remove the screen from the frame. If the screen is not good to reuse, cut a wire mesh the same size as the window frame.
- Prepare a new frame of the same size and material you previously used. If you intend to reuse the frame, pry out the window spline.
- Attach the screen to the frame - slide it in to ensure it fits properly.
- Secure the screen into the frame by screwing it along the edges and corners.
- Apply silicon caulk along the frame's edges to stabilize the screen.
- Work in reverse to mount the window back in place.
Why Window Screens Keep Popping Out
Understanding why window screens keep popping out can help you mitigate this problem. So, familiarize yourself with the possible reasons below.
Weather
Weather is a major contributor to the condition of the house's structure. For instance, the window screen can lose its grip on the frame due to heavy rainfall or a sudden strong wind.
Winter season can also cause trouble. If ice builds up on the window, it can weigh down the screen and even result in rusting if the ice melts on the edges.
Poor Quality Screen
Poor Quality screens pop out easily since they are easy to bend and cannot withstand strong impact. For this reason, consider using a metal screen that's a bit thicker and more durable than the thin and soft one.
Physical Contact
Physical contact, like touching or leaning into the window, can cause the screen to pop out. The weight you add to the window may result in dents and misalignment.
If you have pets or children at home, you'll want to keep an eye on them to keep them from playing with the window screen. For instance, cats can scratch their paws on the screen, and children can poke something through the tiny holes, thus widening them.
What Window Screen to Use
Although most window screens are made of metal, it's helpful to understand the available types and their properties. Below are some common types.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is considered one of the strongest materials in house construction. Therefore, stainless steel screens are suitable for windows and doors. These screens can resist corrosion, thus ideal for areas prone to cold temperatures.
See this stainless steel mesh on Amazon.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel is covered with zinc, making it highly resistant to corrosion and rusting. It's often white or silver and thicker than regular stainless steel screens. However, galvanized steel screen is not too flexible. You might need to bend it to fit in the window frame.
Polyester
Polyester screens have synthetic fiber composition, are resistant to corrosion, and can last through the rainy season. The screens are also durable since you can't tear them without a cutting tool.
See this polyester screen roll on Amazon.
What Does the Window Screen Do?
In case you're wondering why you need to put a metal screen on a window, we prepared a list of its uses below.
Blocks Insects
Window screens have small holes through which insects like flies and bugs cannot pass into your house. As a result, you'll be safer from insect bites and infections.
Enhances Room Temperature
Window screens also help enhance the room temperature by letting the air pass through them, unlike closed windows that isolate the air in the area.
For instance, if the temperature inside a house with window screens becomes too hot due to activities like cooking, the outside air can help cool down the room temperature.
Allows Sunlight
Window screens allow the sunlight to illuminate the house. However, glass windows can also allow sunlight into your home. The only difference is that with window screens, you get sunlight with air, compared to a glass window that only permits light.
How to Clean the Window Screen
Cleaning window screens helps maintain their durability. Also, air circulation improves when you reduce the dust accumulating around the window. So, consider taking the steps below to clean the window screen:
- Turn on a handheld vacuum cleaner, then stick off the dirt throughout the window screen. You can use a lint roller if you don't have a vacuum cleaner.
- Remove the frame to make it easier to clean the side of the window facing outside.
- Mix dishwashing liquid and water in a bowl and let it form bubbles, then pour the solution into a spray bottle.
- Spray the solution through the screen, and wipe it with a soft cloth. You can also use a small brush or a sponge with a rough layer to scrub the screen until it becomes clean.
- Rinse the screen with water.
- Continue scrubbing but do not be too hard to avoid damaging the window frame.
- Rinse again with water, then let it dry under the sun. You can lean the window frame against the wall for faster drying.
- Dry the window with a soft cloth before installing it back.
Watch a video here for a visual guide:
Conclusion
This article has addressed how to keep window screens from popping out and other relevant matters, such as types of window screens and how to clean them.
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