How to Attach a Screen to Metal in the Attic

The vent openings that allow air to move through the enclosed areas of a house, including the attic, also allow rodents, insects and fire embers into the same areas. Covering the openings with a screen reduces the size of the opening without reducing airflow into the space. Attaching the screen to the metal opening correctly ensures it has the strength necessary to keep small animals at bay and remain secure during high winds. The secret to installing screen on metal lies in the type of fasteners used during installation.

Aviation snips
Wire cutters
No. 14 hex-head adapter
Drill/driver
No. 14 self-tapping washer head screws

Instructions

- 1
  Cut a piece of wire screen to extend at least 1/2 inch past all sides of the opening by cutting the wires of the mesh one at a time with aviation snips. Use wire cutters if the screen is made of heavy, stainless steel. Heavier gauged wire – especially stainless steel -- can cause nicks along the cutting edge of snip blades.
- 2
  Secure a No. 14 hex head adapter in the chuck of a drill/driver.
- 3
  Hold the wire mesh against the metal surrounding the hole. Set the edges of the mesh at least 1/2 inch past each side of the hole.
- 4
  Run one No. 14 self-tapping washer head screw through one corner of the mesh and into the metal surrounding the opening. Ensure the screw sits near the center of one mesh square. Secure the mesh by placing one screw at each of the remaining corners and one screw halfway between each set of corner screws.

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