Sliding Screen Door Problems and Fixes

Sliding screen doors get used more than almost any screen in the house. Kids, pets and busy summer days add up. Here are the most common problems, what causes them and what to do.

123

1. 1Mesh
2. 2Frame
3. 3Track and rollers (bottom)

Torn or ripped mesh

What you see: holes, tears or a rip across the middle.

Why it happens: everyday wear, sharp objects, or someone walking into the door when they thought it was open.

The fix: new mesh. A re-screen replaces all the mesh in the door so it's tight and clear again. Screen door re-screens typically run around $100.

Pet damage

What you see: claw marks, stretched mesh near the bottom, or a hole where your dog decided to go through.

Why it happens: standard mesh isn't built to stand up to paws and claws.

The fix: re-screen with pet-resistant mesh. It's much tougher than standard mesh and holds up far better on the door your pets use. It's a small added cost.

Sagging or loose mesh

What you see: mesh that bows out, looks wavy or has pulled loose at the edges.

Why it happens: the spline (the rubber cord that holds the mesh in the frame) dries out and shrinks over time, or the mesh stretches.

The fix: a re-screen with new mesh and new spline.

Bent frame

What you see: the door looks crooked, rubs, or won't sit straight in the track.

Why it happens: it got bumped, stepped on or forced.

The fix: a bent frame usually needs a rebuild. Send a photo and we'll let you know what it needs and what it will cost.

Hard to slide or jumps off the track

What you see: the door drags, sticks or pops off the track.

Try this first:

1. 1Vacuum the bottom track to get out dirt, sand and pine needles.
2. 2Wipe the track with a damp cloth.
3. 3Check for anything stuck in the track, like small rocks.

If it still sticks: the rollers at the bottom of the door may be worn or out of adjustment, or the frame may be bent. Send us a photo and tell us what it's doing. We'll let you know if it's something we can fix.

When to call us

Call or text if:

• The mesh is torn, sagging or damaged by pets
• The frame looks bent
• You're not sure what's wrong

Text a photo to (406) 250-1681 and we'll tell you what it needs. We'll confirm your price before any work starts, and pickup and delivery are free.