Repair a Torn Fiberglass Screen
Updated: Dec. 21, 2022Fix holes in screen windows or doors with patches and glue.
- Time
- Complexity
- Cost
- An hour or less
- Beginner
- Less than $20
How to fix a torn screen
Photo 1: Cut out the hole
Cut a square hole around the tear using a straightedge and sharp utility knife. Keep the hole as small as possible and leave at least 1/2 in. of old screen next to the metal frame.
Photo 2: Glue on the screen patch
Cut a patch of fiberglass screen that will lap 1/2 in. over each edge. Lay wax paper under the window screen to keep the glue from sticking to the workbench. Center the patch over the hole, apply a bead of glue around the hole, and spread the glue through the patch and window screen using a flat wooden stick.
If you’re fed up with the mosquitoes buzzing around your head and keeping you awake all night, how about fixing the screen? Screen patches will be visible and can look a bit tacky, so if the tear is large or the screen is in a highly visible area, replace the entire screen. Otherwise, take 20 minutes and just patch the hole.
If your screen is fiberglass (it’ll feel like fabric), buy 1/2 ft. of new fiberglass screening off the roll at the hardware store or home center or ask for a few small cutoffs. Also pick up either a rubber-based glue or Super Glue Gel. Then follow Photos 1 and 2. The key to a nice-looking repair is holding the straightedge tightly against the workbench so you can make a clean cutout (Photo 1).
If you’ve got an aluminum screen with a small hole, buy a patch kit at the hardware store or home center. It will contain several precut 1-1/2-in. patches with preformed hooks that fasten directly to the screen
Required Tools for this screen patch project
Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.
- Speed square
- Utility knife
