How to Fix an Insect Screen

If your insect screen gets a hole, it can be patched easily. Shading Texas is more than happy to offer you a replacement model but, if you’re looking for a quick fix instead, here’s what you can do.

The Steps

Measure the ripped hole
Cut out a new piece of screen
Thread your upholstery needle with thread
Place the patch to the screen
Stitch the patch
Double knot the final stitch

What You’ll Need

Small roll of insect screen
Scissors
Upholstery Needle
Thread that matches the color of your insect screen
Measuring tape

1. Measure the ripped hole

Use the measuring tape to figure out how big the repair will need to be.

2. Cut out a new piece of screen

Now that you have the measurements, take your scissors and cut out a patch of insect screen that matches the dimensions of the ripped portion of your screen.

Leave a 1-inch margin around the new patch.

Note: If you’re wondering where you can get a piece of screen, look for screen repair patches. These kits are small, but prevent you from having to purchase a roll of screen to fix a small hole.

3. Thread your upholstery needle with thread

An upholstery needle’s curved structure will make threading the patch onto the screen much easier than a straight needle.

Make sure the thread is securely in the needle. If you want, you can tie a small knot around the needle to guarantee strong thread.

Also, the thread’s color should be as close to the original color of the screen as possible.

4. Place the patch to the screen

Make sure the 1-inch margin is evenly spaced over the hole. If you need extra help, you can put the patch in place with scotch tape. You may get small amounts of scotch tape stuck in the thread, but it will make the patching more secure.

5. Stitch the patch

Create a tight hold between the two patches using the needle and thread. Make sure the thread bonds the screen with the patch as tightly as possible, leaving out any slack in the thread.

6. Double knot the final stitch

Double tie a knot in the thread, creating a firm seal that will hold over the hole. Check to see if there are any holes where insects could get in.

Need a Screen Replacement?

If your hole is a bit bigger than what a screen repair can fix, contact Shading Texas. We offer insect screen replacement along with new installations, awnings, and more.