Often times, when you repair your window screen, you can always reuse the old screening spline. However, there are instances that you cannot reuse the material because it is in a very bad shape already. Or, you just really want to put up a new screening spline along with all the new materials that you have brought from the hardware. You might also encounter outdated flat screen splines, aluminum or steel splines and that you need to replace the materials with something that is up to date and more durable.
Screening spline is available in different sizes and shapes for the window industry. Most hardware stores have stocks of various shapes and sizes of the spline.
The different types of spline materials include the following: round EPDM, round steel, round polyfoam, flat screen splining, solid core vinyl or round hollow, square aluminum.
Types of splining
In the market, there are various types of splining available, depending of course on your need for the material. Splining usually comes in rolls that are somewhat similar to electrical wires except that the spline is solid all the way. You will usually notice the polyfoam which looks like a foam rubber except that its air bubbles are very small. The size of polyfoam is available in measurements usually in terms of decimals of an inch.
Installation
The main purpose of the screening spline is to hold the screens on doorframes. This material is commonly cylindrical in shape and is made from a flexible foamy material. The material can be readily compressed into frame channels in order to tightly hold the screen in position.
Most of the dealers of screen spline manufacture the product in two common colors: the black and grey. The black colored splines are more suitable for charcoal colored screens while the grey splines are commonly used for screens that are much brighter in color. The material is also supplied in various diameters. The diameters are meant for the differing sizes of screens and channels. You need to have a good judgment when selecting the appropriate size to use in the project in order to prevent the screen from loosening. If you are not sure how to proceed, ask the opinion of experts.
When installing the screen spline, you need to be equipped with tools like the screening tool and scissors. Otherwise, you might end up puncturing the material and producing results that are contrary to plans. The screening tool has two wheels and a handle. Each of the wheels is specifically meant for a certain range of spline diameter. Every wheel has a grove that will hold the spline in place as it rolls to the channel. The screening tool will enable the user to fix the spline in a uniform manner without leaving any material protruding or overhanging.
During the process of installation, other tools might come in handy like the masking tapes and screw drivers. The screwdriver is used to fix the spline around the corners firmly. A utility knife can also be used instead of a scissor.
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