If you're ordering replacement window screens (or sending dimensions to us for a quote), the measurement step is where most people get it wrong. Here's how to do it correctly.
What You Need
- A tape measure (the metal kind - not a fabric sewing one)
- A pencil and paper
- Five minutes per screen
Step 1: Remove the screen (if you can)
If your window screen comes out - most do, with squeeze tabs at the top or bottom - pop it out and measure the screen frame directly. This is the most accurate method.
If it doesn't come out, measure the window opening the screen sits in. Subtract 1/8 inch from both width and height for the new screen.
Step 2: Measure width to the outside edge of the frame
Lay the screen flat. Measure across the outside edge of the aluminum frame at three points: top, middle, bottom. Use the smallest of the three numbers.
Step 3: Measure height the same way
Top to bottom, on the outside edge of the frame, at three points: left, middle, right. Smallest number wins.
Step 4: Note the frame depth
This trips people up. Standard window screen frames come in two common depths:
- 5/16 inch (most older homes, pre-1990 construction)
- 7/16 inch (most newer homes, post-1990)
Measure the thickness of the existing frame, not just the width and height.
Step 5: Note the spline groove
Look at the back of the frame. There's a groove where rubber spline holds the mesh in place. Measure the width of that groove - it'll be either 0.135 inch (standard) or 0.160 inch (heavy-duty).
Step 6: Take a photo
Always take a photo of the existing screen - front, back, and corners.
The Shortcut
Text photos of your screens to (302) 365-5562. We'll tell you what you need, and if you'd rather just have us rebuild them on site instead, we'll quote that too.
Common Mistakes
- Measuring the window opening, not the screen
- Forgetting to measure depth
- Rounding up to whole inches (screen frames are sized in 1/16 inch increments)
- Assuming all screens in the house are the same size