How To Build Removable Wood-Framed Screens

A screened-in porch can help you enjoy relaxing summer nights outdoors without the annoyance of mosquitos and other insects flying around you. However, many homeowners don’t know how to build removable wood-framed screens from scratch, so there’s a bit of a learning curve.

In the video above, This Old House experts Tom Silva and Jeff Sweenor show how to construct and install these custom screens from start to finish. Read on for step-by-step instructions and tips on building your own wood-framed screens.

Why Build a Wood-Framed Screened-In Porch?

Aside from their aesthetic appeal, screened-in porches have a lot of benefits. These structures:

• Add property value and curb appeal to your home
• Allow residents to relax outdoors without getting bitten by mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects
• Provide shade for the front of your home
• Create a comfortable space for gathering with friends and family

According to the World Mosquito Program, mosquitoes can transmit diseases like malaria, dengue, West Nile virus, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika. If you live in an area that’s prone to large populations of mosquitoes, building a screened-in porch could be beneficial to your health and your enjoyment of the outdoors.

Materials and Tools Needed to Build Wood-Framed Screens

Before starting your project, gather the following materials and tools:

• 2-by-4 lumber
• Drill
• Fiberglass screening (5-foot roll)
• Hammer
• Measuring tape
• Plywood (for work surface)
• Saw
• Staples
• Staple gun
• Utility knife
• Wood screws
• 1 3/4-inch wood filler strips

Framing the Porch

The first step in creating removable wood-framed screens is to properly frame the porch. The design in the video above uses a system that allows for easy screen installation and removal. Here’s how you can achieve this:

1. Install three vertical 2-by-4s with a 1 3/4-inch filler strip placed between them.
2. Leave one of the 2-by-4s slightly protruding to create a dado joint (groove).

Attaching the Screening

Attaching the fiberglass screening to the frames is the first step in making your removable screens. Use the following steps to get started:

1. Lay the screen frame on a flat surface, such as a piece of plywood.
2. Unroll the fiberglass screening over the frame, leaving a three or 4-inch overhang on all sides.
3. Cut the screening to size, trying to make a straight, square cut.

Next, begin attaching the screening:

1. Start on one side and fold the excess screening over the frame’s edge.
2. Use a staple gun to secure the screening to the back of the frame, working along the entire length.

Installing the Screens

Now that you’ve attached the screens to the frames, it’s time to install them in the porch openings. Use the steps below for the best results:

1. Fold the extra section of the screen over the rabbeted edge of the frame.
2. Slide the rabbeted edge of the frame into the dado joint in the porch framing, pinning the screen underneath.
3. Push the frame into place, aiming for a snug fit against the stop.
4. Secure the frame with screws along the exposed edge.
5. Hold the screen taut and pull it to the opposite side of the porch opening.
6. Use the next section of the frame to pin the screen into the dado joint.
7. Use a hammer (if necessary) to press the frame into the dado, then secure it with screws.
8. Repeat this process for all sides of the opening.
9. For the bottom piece, stretch the screen downward to remove any wrinkles before securing it in place.
10. After securing, trim excess screening using a utility knife.

For a visual guide, rewatch the video above while performing these steps. Seeing how Silva and Sweenor slide the screens into place will give you a good idea of what to aim for with your own installation.

Screen Replacement

If your screens become damaged:

1. Remove the screen frame by unscrewing it from the dado.
2. Detach the old screening and lay the new screening over the frame.
3. Attach the new screen with staples.
4. Reinstall the frame using the steps in the section above.

Tips for a Successful Wood-Framed Screened-In Porch

For best results when building your removable wood-framed screens:

• Measure accurately to check that the frames will fit perfectly in the porch openings.
• Use high-quality fiberglass screening for durability and longevity.
• Maintain tension in the screening to prevent sagging over time.
• Apply a weather-resistant finish to the wood frames to protect against the elements.