Giving Your Window Screen a Long Life

One of the tragedies of today’s world is the fact that so many things aren’t designed to last. Our cellphones are meant to be replaced every two years. Cars replaced every few years, if we can afford it. Is the same concept true when it comes to your replacement window screen? Well...yes and no.

Under optimal circumstances, your window screen can expect to last between 10-15 years. Yes, if your beloved cat uses it as a scratching post, or if your child accidentally puts a hand through it when running, you’ll need to replace it. But barring a disaster, you should expect a decade of vigilant service. But how can you take steps to ensure it performs up to its full potential? Read on, and we’ll go over a few ways for you to give the screen a happy and healthy life.

• First, let’s talk about winter. While some homeowners don’t have the need due to location and weather, others are compelled to prepare their homes for stormy and frigid winter weather. You don’t have to remove your screens for the season and install a storm door, but there are benefits. First, by removing screens in fall, you have a convenient time to clean window exteriors, window sills, and your windows themselves. Regular cleaning keeps your home looking good and curb appeal up. Second, standard screens can block up to 30% of sunlight. Removing screens in winter can provide the interior of your home with a boost of heat due to solar rays, not to mention an increase in cheerful sunshine.
• When you do remove screens, be sure to store them in a garage, basement, or somewhere away from high traffic.
• When spring hits, before reinstalling screens, be sure to hose them down and give them a good cleaning. However, make sure to never use a pressure washer on your screen. The force of the water can easily do damage to the screen, the frame, or even the window itself.
• A good rule of thumb is to give your screens a cleaning yearly. By doing so, you can make sure that they’ll keep looking their best, and prevent buildup of dirt, grime, mold, and rust.
• Remember that, if the screen is located in a place where it receives lots of sun on a regular daily basis, the solar rays will cause it to fade over time. Be sure to check the specifics in your screen’s warranty information. Among other things, it will let you know when you should consider a replacement.
• Along similar lines, when should you repair a screen or replace it? Usually, if a hole or tear shows up in the screen, if it’s about the size of a nickel or smaller, you can repair it. Your local hardware store should offer screen repair kits. For damage larger than a nickel, you’re better off just replacing the screen entirely.

As you can see, a little planning and preventative maintenance can keep your screens functioning properly and looking their best. But if you have questions or concerns, feel free to contact us.