Ready to turn your balcony into the ultimate bug-free retreat? Screening it in is easier than you think, especially with the right tools and materials. Here’s a detailed guide of the simple steps to get that perfect screened-in space—no professional needed!
Step 1: Determine the Materials You’ll Need
While you can use alternative materials, SNAPP® screen makes installation easy, even for DIY’ers! No cold temperature restrictions. No caps or covers to cut. No secondary parts to install. And no specialist tools required. Here are the basic materials that will jumpstart your project:
- SNAPP® screen extrusions: Extrusions are the basic framework for your screen, creating a secure, sturdy border around your balcony. They come in pre-cut pieces, ready to be measured and fitted to your space.
- SNAPP® screen mounting screws: You’ll use these to fasten your extrusions into place.
- SNAPP® screen spline: This flexible material is what holds the screen fabric in place. Think of it as the “glue” for your screen—without it, you’d be stuck (pun intended).
- SNAPP® screen spline tool: This handy tool helps you press the spline into the extrusion channel, securing the screen material.
- SNAPP® screen material (polyester): Choose the screen material that best fits your needs—polyester works great for durability and clarity. Avoid metal screening, as it can be too rigid and prone to denting and tearing.
Step 2: Ensure You Have the Proper Tools Available
Beyond the SNAPP® screen essentials, here a few basic tools that you’ll need:
- Measuring tape: You’ll need accurate measurements to ensure your extrusions fit perfectly—don’t wing it or guestimate during this project.
- Utility knife with extra blades: When it comes to trimming screen material, you’ll want a sharp, fresh blade to get a clean cut. Extra blades are essential since they dull quickly!
- Screw gun: Fasten your extrusions with ease. A screw gun saves you time and ensures the screws go in securely without stripping.
- Hacksaw or power chop saw (with aluminum/plastic cutting blade): For cutting the extrusions to size, you’ll need a saw and blade that can handle aluminum and plastic.
Step 3: Choose Your Mounting Method
Inside vs. Around the Opening
If you choose to mount inside the opening, the extrusions sit within the frame itself. This method works best when you have limited space or if you’re aiming for a minimalist, sleek look. It allows more flexibility on the depth at which you install the extrusions and offers a clean, unobtrusive finish. On the other hand, mounting around the opening places the extrusions around the outer edge, creating a “picture frame” effect. This method is more visually striking and offers a nice reveal that works well when you want to make a bolder design statement.
Butt Corner vs. Miter Corner
Next, let’s talk about corners. You’ll need to choose between a butt corner or a miter corner. With a butt corner, the extrusions meet directly at a 90-degree angle. It’s straightforward, quick to install, and works well for more modern designs. The miter corner cuts the extrusions at a 45-degree angle, giving them a sharper, more sophisticated edge. Miter corners are ideal for achieving a polished, high-end look but do require more precision. Depending on your design vision and skill level, both can work beautifully, but miter corners will definitely offer a more refined, elegant finish.
Step 4: Measure & Cut the Width Extrusions
Now it’s time to measure your balcony opening for the width extrusions. Start by measuring the inside width of your opening from one side to the other—be sure to take the time and double check for accuracy before cutting, because a tight fit makes all the difference in the final result. Once you’ve got your measurement, cut the extrusions to size. For a clean cut, make sure you’re using the right saw blade—an aluminum/plastic cutting blade, like the Freud Diablo series, works wonders. Once you’ve done so, test-fit them in place to ensure everything lines up properly.
Next up, pre-drill your mounting holes (this is another point where precision definitely matters). Place the first hole 1” from each end of the extrusion, then space the rest about 12” apart.
Step 5: Measure & Cut the Height Extrusions
Just like with the width extrusions, measure the height of your opening carefully—this time, from the top to the bottom. Cut the height extrusions to size, making sure they fit snugly in place. Test the fit before drilling, and as you did with the width pieces, pre-drill the holes 1” from each end and then 12” apart. Mount the height extrusions just like you did with the width extrusions, ensuring everything is lined up perfectly, and, of course, double-check your work.
Step 6: Screen Installation
Screen installation begins by rolling your chosen screen material (polyester or fiberglass) into the extrusion frame. Be sure to use the SNAPP® screen spline tool to secure it properly; this is what holds everything in place and gives your screen a clean, tight finish. The spline tool is used to press the spline into the groove of the extrusion, securing the screen material in place. It’s essential to use the spline immediately after rolling the screen in to ensure a tight, secure fit and prevent any slack in the material. We recommend using a fresh SNAPP® screen spline and not an old spline, as it can compromise the tightness and durability of your screen. The SNAPP® system makes this step far easier than traditional methods, with no complicated rolling or stapling.
Step 7: Screen Trimming
Once your screen is securely in place, it’s important to trim the excess material. Use a utility knife and carefully trim along the top edge of the extrusion. Be mindful not to cut too deeply as you can risk damaging the spline! A steady hand is key here; precise trimming ensures a clean, polished finish that looks like it was installed by a pro.
DIY Porch Screening With Professional Results
With the SNAPP® screen system, installing a screened-in balcony is easier than ever before. The simple, zero-waste extrusions and easy-to-follow installation steps provided with SNAPP® screen products give you the freedom to create a durable and attractive space—without the hassle. Contact us today to get started, or check out our installation videos for more information, including detailed guides for gazebos, columns, and arches!