How to Re-screen a Window or Lanai Panel

Pick the right mesh

Standard fiberglass is fine for most windows. In Broward, no-see-um mesh keeps out the tiny biting bugs screen doors miss, and pet-resistant mesh survives dogs and cats. Get the right spline diameter too — the rubber cord that locks the screen in — or it won’t hold.

Roll it in tight and square

Lay the new mesh over the frame with a slight overhang, then press it into the groove with the convex wheel of a spline tool, rolling the spline in behind it. Work opposite sides in turn and keep light tension so it goes in flat — rushing one side leaves waves and sag.

Trim clean

Run a utility knife along the outer edge of the spline to trim the excess, blade angled away from the screen so you don’t nick it. A clean trim is what makes a DIY re-screen look factory.

Lanai and pool cages

Screen-enclosure (pool cage) panels use the same spline method on a bigger frame, and after a storm they’re the most common thing that needs redoing. Note: the enclosure structure itself can be permitted, licensed work — re-screening is handyman work; rebuilding the cage frame isn’t. We re-screen windows, doors and lanais across Broward.

Frequently asked

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