How to Stretch Porch Screen

Measure and record the distance between the all porch posts with a tape measure; measure the top and bottom width, and then measure the side height.

Cut 2-by-2-inch pressure-treated posts with a chop saw to frame the top, bottom and sides, using the measurements taken earlier.

Cut a 45-degree miter on the ends of the 2-by-2 posts; alternate miter directions so the cuts are opposite one another.

Drill pilot holes for mounting screws in the ends of the 2-by-2 posts, using a power drill and drill bit. The size of the drill bit will vary depending on the size screw you choose for mounting. Drilling pilot holes first prevents the wood from cracking and splitting,

Apply wood glue to the ends of the posts and assemble the square screen frames, and then drive the galvanized wood screws in with a screwdriver. If using a power drill and screwdriver attachment, do not overtighten the screws because this causes the wood to split and break.

Stand the screen frames up in their locations and fasten them to the porch with screws and a power drill or galvanized nails and a hammer.

Unroll the screen on a flat surface and measure the screen to fit the frames, adding 3-inches of extra screen to each frame. This allows enough screen to be stretched and cut off later.

Cut the screen with a sharp utility knife and roll up the cut section of screen.

Line the screen up with the top corners of the frame. Staple the screen to the top of the frame every 2 inches with a staple gun.

Unroll the screen and staple the screen to the bottom frame every 2 inches.

Pull the screen taught to the left side, taking care not to distort it, and staple every two inches.

Cover the exposed stapled edges with 3/8-by-3/4-inch batten and fasten it with 3d galvanized nails and a hammer.

Cut 1-by-4-inch pressure-treated boards and secure them over the batten with 6d galvanized nails.