Screen lanais can be a wonderful and convenient addition to any home. Unfortunately, due to the material, it is probable that your lanais will need to be repaired at some point in time. Repairing a screen is not a project that is suited for a first time DIYer. More than the standard household tools are required to replace even a single screen panel or repair a screen door handle, and the money you spend at the hardware store could wind up wasted should you decide the project is too much for you.
However, if you consider yourself handy, and are used to completing projects around the house by yourself, then you should be able to manage the replacement of single panels, or replacing the hardware on a screen door. If you are very handy, or have had previous construction experience, you may even be able to rescreen entire patio or porch enclosures, replacing panels on the roof or ceiling of a pool cage, or even the installation of a brand new screen.
Please note that large projects are decidedly difficult to accomplish alone, and more often than not the repairs should be completed only by a trained professional.
Tips for Repairing your Screen Lanais
If you have decided to go through with the repairs to your lanais yourself, then here are a few tips that can help facilitate the job:
If your only problem is the replacement of one screen, then the first thing you will need to do is remove the original screen mesh. After this you should carefully measure the opening, and then purchase the new screen mesh.
Prior to the installation of the new screen, it is important that you clear away all debris from the opening as well as removing any and all obstacles from the area you are working in.
If you have more than one panel that needs to be repaired, the only changes are the amount of materials that you will require and the amount of time needed to complete the job. However, it is recommended that you remove old mesh and install new mesh one panel at a time. This way you can finish the project at a later date, should something come up.
If you are rescreening an entire enclosure, then it is easiest to keep your work contained to large stages. For instance; gathering all the new material, then removing all of the old screens, followed by prepping and cleaning the enclosure, and finally installing the new screens.
If this is your first time repairing a screen, you should expect even a small patio covering to take about 4 to 6 hours to complete.
Repairing your lanais is not an easy project to complete yourself. But with the right amount of experience in DIY undertakings, you should be able to refurbish any missing or damaged panels with only a small amount of effort and materials. If the job seems to be too much for you to handle, then don’t hesitate to call a professional to complete the job for you.