How do I Build Retractable Patio Screens?

Measure the length and width of the patio door to determine how big the screen will need to be. Transfer those measurements onto the aluminum frame and mark where the cuts will need to be made for the two vertical and two horizontal pieces.

Cut the pieces at a 45-degree angle with tin snips. Slide a corner piece into the first vertical aluminum frame piece and connect it to the first horizontal frame piece. Attach the horizontal piece to the second vertical piece with another corner, then connect the final vertical piece to the last horizontal piece with a corner.

Stand the frame up in the opening to make sure it fits properly. Hook the long spring on the roller into the cavity of the horizontal rail along the top of the aluminum frame at either side. Twist the roller against the spring so the pin fits into the notch in the corner. Let go and it will snap into the cavity. Push down on the roller to make sure it works properly. Repeat the process for the roller on the other side of the frame.

Lay the frame down and roll out the screen over the top of it. Cut the screen with scissors so it overlaps the frame by an inch on every side. Lay the spline down along the perimeter of the screen, right over the channel at the edge of the screen frame. Push down on the spline roller, then push the spline into the channel beginning at any corner of the screen.

Move the roller across the screen, pushing the spline into the channel on the frame. Move around each corner of the screen in the same manner and continue until all of the spline is pushed down into the channel and the screen is secure in the frame. Cut off the excess screen with the scissors.