Make a removable window insect screen

Before you start

Identify where the frame will sit and how the kit holds it in place. Measure from indoors, with both feet on the floor. Pick an opening the kit is designed for. Leave windows used for emergency escape clear of anything that could delay opening them.

Tools and materials

• Screen frame kit with corners and clips
• Insect mesh, spline and spline roller
• Tape measure and square
• Saw or cutting tool specified by the kit
• File and mesh-trimming tool if required

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Measure the opening at three points

   Measure width at the top, middle and bottom, then height on both sides and in the middle. Use the kit’s instructions for deciding the finished frame size and clip clearance. Note which side will face indoors.

2. 2

   Cut and dry-fit the rails

   Allow for how far each corner connector enters the rail. Mark and cut opposite rails as matched pairs. Smooth any burrs, assemble the rectangle on a bench and measure both diagonals before fitting the mesh.

3. 3

   Roll the spline into place

   Spline is the flexible cord that locks the mesh into the groove. Lay the mesh flat with excess on all sides and roll the spline into one side. Move to the opposite side, then finish the ends. Smooth wrinkles as you go without pulling the rails inward.

4. 4

   Inspect before trimming

   Sight along all four rails to check for bowing. If the mesh is skewed, lift the spline on the affected edge and reseat it while there is still spare mesh to hold.

5. 5

   Trim and check

   Trim the spare mesh according to the kit instructions. Fit the screen and check for gaps around the edges.

Check the result

Look around the fitted frame in daylight. The screen should sit flat with no light gaps along the edges. Open and close the sash and practise taking the screen out from inside. Refit it only if the clips hold securely and the sash has its full travel.