How to screen a covered deck or patio

While you can create a screened room by using a staple gun to attach window screen mesh from the hardware store to 3 foot wood framed openings, this is not what I am describing.

You can hire the company that the builders do and get builder quality materials with posts every 3 feet. If you don’t mind and plan to sell soon or don’t plan to use the space all that much, then it will be fine.

If you want to create a top quality screen room, then you’ll want to use Heartlands screen system. Heartlands system not only has a cleaner appearance, but the screens will hold taut for longer and cover much wider openings.  Maintenance involves just a hose or some soap and water.

Heartlands uses pool and patio screen mesh which is 20% thicker than standard window screen mesh, so consequently more durable. Screen mesh is available in 100’ rolls up to 9’ wide. Cut a length of screen mesh 3 inches longer and wider than the opening. If you require a railing (check your local building code), we have a 2” x 2” rail that has the groove also. If the space above and below the railing is no taller than 8’, you can stretch the screen across an opening as wide as 25’. If you have a great view, you might want to invest in a header support that will allow the widest opening possible.

Just give us the measurements and we’ll calculate what you need. You start by framing all openings with powder-coated, extruded aluminum channel materials that include a groove on one side. The wider your openings, the fewer aluminum pieces are needed. You can choose from lots of standard or custom colors to match your home.

Then holding the edge of the screen parallel to the frame, use the roller tool to roll the spline (over the screen) into the groove. Do the top first then the sides and the bottom last. Make sure the screen is square to the opening before continuing past the top edge. Once it’s square, tight, and the spline is securely in place, use a utility knife to trim away the excess screen.

Don’t forget a door! If you want a durable, low maintenance screen door for your screen room, Heartlands sells and installs the Gerkin brand screen door. Gerkin doors are made in Iowa and feature powder coated, extruded aluminum parts. You can see more about Gerkin at www.gerkin.com.

If you are not a do-it-yourselfer, one of the expert Heartlands installers would be happy to screen your room for you. Just call us at 636-728-0003 for an estimate!