A great way to increase privacy, regulate light, and boost home energy efficiency is with block-out screens. Installing a blockout screen will help you to enjoy total privacy, lower sun glare, or keep your house cool during the summer. These screens are simple to install; with a few tools and careful planning, you will finish the job quickly.
From planning to the last details, this guide will lead you through the process of installing a blockout screen for windows.
Materials and Tools You’ll Need
You should compile all the tools and supplies you will need before starting. This is a list of tools required for the installation:
Essential Materials:
- Blockout screen material (the correct size for your window)
- Window frame or roller kit (depending on your installation method)
- Mounting brackets or adhesive strips
- Screws (if using brackets)
- Tape measure
- Pencil or marker
- Drill with drill bits (if using screws)
- Level
Optional:
- Scissors or utility knife (for trimming the screen)
- Staple gun (if securing the screen to a wooden frame)
- Screwdriver
- Adhesive strips (for frameless installations)
Installation Process
Step 1: Measure Your Window
Accurate measuring of your window comes first and most importantly in the process. Find the width and height of the window you want to have the blockout screen installed in. This will guarantee that you cut or buy a screen fit for use.
How to Measure:
- If you intend to hang the screen outside, measure the outside frame or the inside of the window frame for an inside mount.
- You can use a tape measure to find the width and how high something is.
- If the window size isn’t always the same, measure in three different spots: the top, the middle, and the bottom.
Record Your Measurements:
If you need to, write down the sizes and bring them with you to the hardware or home improvement store when you buy the blockout screen material or kit.
Pro Tip:
Always leave a small additional area when cutting block-out material to enable later, if necessary, trimming. This guarantees you won’t inadvertently leave gaps and cut too small.
Step 2: Prepare the Blockout Screen
It’s time to prepare the screen for installation once you have the right measurements and buy the blockout screen material. Should the screen need to be cut down to size, use a utility knife or scissors. If you are using a frame to guarantee that the screen fits tightly, leave a small extra bit around the corners.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setting up a blockout screen kit if you’re using one. While some kits include pre-cut materials, others will call for you to cut the screen yourself.
Consider the Mounting Option:
- Check that the fabric is correctly oriented and that the roller mechanism of a roller-style blockout screen runs without problems.
- Make that the material for a frame-mounted blockout screen fits the frame—wood, metal, or plastic frame included.
Step 3: Install Mounting Hardware
Install the mounting hardware for your block-out screen coming forward. Whether you are putting in a fixed frame or a roller-type block-out screen will determine the hardware you require.
Installing a Roller Blockout Screen:
- Bracket Installation: Mounting brackets are needed for most roller-style blockout screens. Keep the bracket at the window frame’s top for the roller. Mark screw holes with a pencil or marker.
- Drill the Holes: Use a drill and bit to drill screw holes. Screw the brackets to the window frame.
- Attach the Roller Mechanism: Insert the roller into the brackets after fastening. The screen should roll out smoothly and cover the window.
Installing a Fixed Frame Blockout Screen:
- Frame Installation: Make sure your blockout screen fits by holding the frame up to the window. Mark screw or adhesive strip locations.
- Drill Holes (if needed): First drill pilot holes in the window frame, then screw the block-out screen frame in. Adhesive strips are a non-invasive alternative to screws. Apply strips to a clean window frame for a secure fit.
Frameless Installation (Adhesive Strips):
- Apply Adhesive Strips: Heavy-duty adhesive strips make frameless block-out screen installation easy. Attach the strips to the screen edges and secure them to the window frame.
Step 4: Secure the Blockout Screen
It’s time to lock the blockout screen after the mounting hardware or sticky strips have been inserted. Whether you have a fixed frame or a roller mechanism, make sure the screen covers the window totally and is oriented correctly when closed.
For Roller Screens:
- Test the Mechanism: To examine the screen’s movement, pull down one side. The screen should roll without snags or gaps left along the margins.
- Adjust as Necessary: Adjust the brackets or screen if the roller is not level or the screen does not cover the window.
For Fixed Frame Screens:
- Check the Fit: Make sure the blockout screen fits snugly in the frame. If there are light gaps, trim the edges or add adhesive strips to tighten the fit.
Step 5: Test and Final Adjustments
Testing your block-out screen comes first once it is in place. Pull down the screen or slide the frame into the window such that it blocks the required light level. Move around the room looking for any light leaks or gaps where the screen does not sit precisely flush against the window frame.
Common Adjustments:
- Tighten Screws or Brackets: Check for loose screws or mounting brackets if the screen isn’t straight.
- Add Extra Adhesive Strips: If edges lift, add adhesive strips to attach the screen.
- Trim Excess Material: For a neat finish, remove excess fabric if the screen is too large.
Ensure Long-Term Success
Installing a window blockout screen is easy and can improve your home’s comfort and functionality. By following the procedures above, you may manage light and privacy and save energy by keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
A good installation requires correct measurements, screen preparation, and careful mounting hardware attachment. Check your screen occasionally after installation to guarantee it’s secure. Cleaning the screen and tightening the mounting hardware will help you enjoy your blockout screen for years.
Spending time installing your blockout screen correctly can make your home more comfortable, energy-efficient, and attractive.