How to Measure a Screen Spline

A screen spline is a rubber cord that keeps the window screen secure in its frame. If you've purchased a new window or your old spline is damaged, you'll need to purchase a new screen spline. Take measurements of the old spline or the window frame groove to make sure you purchase the right spline size. All you need to know is the spline diameter and width!

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Removing the Spline from the Screen

Download Article

1
Remove the screen frame from the window. Check for clips holding your window screen in and, if you spot any, lift the clips up to unfasten the screen from the window. In most cases, your window screen frame should pop out easily.^{[1]XResearch source}
- If your screen frame is secured by clips, they should be located along the left and right sides.
- After removing the frame, lay it down on a flat surface like a table.
2
Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry the screen spline up. Take the screwdriver and pry up 1 end of the screen spline. Lift it until you can grab the end of the screen spline with your hands.^{[2]XResearch source}
- You can pry the screen spline up from either end.
- If you don't have a flat-head screwdriver, you can use a butter knife as an alternative.
- The screen spline looks like a long cord made of rubber or foam.^{[3]XExpert SourceMichael Fox
  Window Repair SpecialistExpert Interview. 1 December 2020.}
Advertisement
Once you have a strong grip, pull upward on the screen spline with light pressure. Continue lifting the spline until you remove it from the window frame completely.^{[4]XResearch source}
You will get the best and most precise readings if you keep the screen spline as intact as possible. If the spline is already broken, remove it gently to keep it as intact as you can.^{[5]XResearch source}

Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Finding the Diameter of the Spline

Download Article

Do not throw away your screen spline if it was recently damaged. You can still use it to determine the size your new screen spline should be.^{[6]XResearch source}
2
Use a tape measure to find the diameter of your spline if it's intact. Lay the screen spline on a flat surface and position the tape measure across 1 end of the spline to find the diameter, or width, of the spline.^{[7]XExpert SourceMichael Fox
Window Repair SpecialistExpert Interview. 1 December 2020.} Measure from 1 side of the spline to the other, and write down the number.^{[8]XResearch source}
- The spline's measurements tend to be in inches or centimeters, depending on whether your country uses the imperial or metric measurement system.
3
Measure the spline groove opening's diameter as an alternative. If your screen spline is badly damaged or you no longer have it, you can use the screen frame to take the spline diameter. Place the tape measure inside the spline groove opening and take measurements from the bottom of the opening to the top to find the diameter.^{[9]XResearch source}
- The spline groove opening is the place in the screen frame where you insert the spline.
4
Buy a new spline with the same measurement. Try to find as precise a match as possible.^{[10]XExpert SourceMichael Fox
Window Repair SpecialistExpert Interview. 1 December 2020.} If your spline measurements are between 2 sizes, determine whether the width is nearer to the larger or smaller size and choose the closest match.
- If you old spline has a .125 in (0.32 cm) diameter, for example, you would look for a new spline with the same measurements on the package.

Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Installing a New Screen Spline

Download Article

1
Cut the new spline to size. Measure all 4 interior sides of the screen with a tape measure and record the length. Use scissors or a sharp knife to cut your spline to the same length.^{[11]XResearch source}
- If your previous spline's length is still intact, use it as an additional guideline while cutting the spline to size.
Starting in 1 corner of the screen, use your hands to insert the spline into the frame groove. Use a spline roller to smooth over any raised areas to make sure it stays secure.^{[12]XResearch source}
3
Troubleshoot issues with lubricant or by stretching the spline. If the spline does not easily lay flat in the frame groove, try spraying it with a silicone lubricant, available at hardware stores.^{[13]XResearch source}
- If the spline is too large to insert into the screen, pull on 1 end to stretch it thinner as you insert it. The spline should return to its original shape and keep a firm hold in the frame.

Expert Q&A

Search

Add New Question

Question
How do I know what size replacement screen spline to buy?
Michael Fox
Window Repair Specialist
Michael Fox is a Window Repair Specialist and the President at Window Repair Systems and WindowHardwareDirect.com, based in Westminster, South Carolina. With over 25 years of experience, Michael specializes in commercial window repair and service. He holds a business degree from Monroe Community College and SUNY Brockport. Michael has helped Window Repair Systems and WindowHardwareDirect.com become an industry leader in commercial window repair and hardware distribution, servicing schools and businesses and training large public school systems.
Michael Fox
Window Repair Specialist
Expert Answer
Measure the diameter of your old screen spline, then use that when you're purchasing a new screen spline.
Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If How.com.vn has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission.Support How.com.vn
Yes No
Not Helpful 3 Helpful 1

Ask a Question

200 characters left

Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.

Submit

Tips

Spline sizes are shown in decimals on the packaging. If you wrote the size in fractions, convert it to decimals before shopping for a screen spline.
Thanks
Helpful0 Not Helpful0

Submit a Tip

All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published

Submit

Thanks for submitting a tip for review!