Windows & Screens (March 19, 2001):

Now is the time of year to walk around your house and check all of your windows and screens for needed repairs. Warm weather is just around the corner and so are bugs. While the weather is still cool, it’s time to get your screens repaired. This is the perfect time of year to take them in the basement or the garage and repair them. If you’re not handy, bring them into Home Hardware, and we will be happy to repair them. Don't wait until warm weather, when everyone else does and you may have to wait weeks to get them back. If you have aluminum storm windows and screens, check the corners and latches. If you are repairing them take a sample of what you need. There is nothing standard when it comes to window parts. The same goes for the rubber spine that holds the glass or screen in, take a sample. Go prepared and know your sizes—the clerk will appreciate you when come with the needed information because there is no standard width or glass size. If repairing screens, you have the choice of fiberglass, or aluminum, in either black or gray. I like aluminum it is stronger, it holds up better, and it does not dry out or get brittle. If you have a sun problem, you can also get sun screens that will block out 70% of the sun’s heat and light. This helps cut air conditioning bills and keep the house cooler, even if you don't use the air conditioning. Missing a screen? You can make a new one or take it to your local hardware store and most of them can make a new one for you. The best thing to do is take a window or another screen that fits in the window or door and use it as a sample for measurement and types of corners and frame. Next week we will give tips on window repair and how to keep putty in old wood windows. Now is the time to take your screens in to your favorite family owned hardware store before the Spring rush!