How to Make a Wood Screen Window Frame
- 1). Measure the window. The frame will be placed on the outside of the window inside the window well. The screen should be the right size to slide upward into the window well and be pressed in.
- 2). Cut the 1-by-2-inch boards to create the outside frame of the window screen. Miter cut the ends so that they will match up with each other and create a 90 degree angle. A miter cut is made by cutting the ends at a 45-degree angle so that two pieces put together make the corner of the frame. Always use weather treated lumber when doing building projects for the outside of the house.
- 3). Lay the cut boards out and form them into the shape of the window well. Apply wood glue at the joints to hold them in place while you attach the braces. Place a brace on each corner with one set of screw holes in each piece of wood. Screw the braces in place.
- 4). Paint or stain the wood frame to match the current window frame. If the window frame is old or rotting this is a good time to replace the entire frame. Allow the paint or stain to dry before finishing the project.
- 5). Cut the screen to fit into the frame. Make sure the screen overlaps the frame at least half way. Screening material is available in plastic, metal and fiberglass. The type of screen you buy will depend on your area. If you have a large amount of mice, birds or squirrels that may peck or chew on the screen, a metal screen is suggested. Plastic screens work well for areas with large amounts of rain because they do not rust.
- 6). Stretch the screening across the frame and staple it down. Place staples about 1 to 2 inches apart around the edge of the screening. This will ensure the screen stays tight and no insects can enter.
- 7). Slide the screen up and into place and push it into position. Screw the frame into the existing window frame. The screw should be placed below and beside the steel braces.
