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How to build a flyscreen frame

MitchellMc
Bunnings Team Member
Bunnings Team Member

Difficulty: Beginner

Creating a custom flyscreen frame is a fantastic way to keep pesky insects out while still enjoying fresh air in your home.

 

This detailed step-by-step guide takes you through the simple process, ensuring you can quickly and easily build a flyscreen that fits your window perfectly.

Video Tutorial

Steps

Step 1

Measure the space in the window frame.

 

Start by measuring the width and height of your window’s inner frame. Use the measuring tape and measure at multiple points since windows can be slightly irregular.

 

Write down the exact measurements as you'll need them when cutting your flyscreen frame.

 

1.1 Measure frame height.png  1.2 Measuring frame width.png

Step 2

Cut the frame.

 

Set up the mitre box on a flat surface to ensure precise cuts. The mitre box will help you cut the ends of each piece at a perfect 45-degree angle, ensuring a clean fit with the corner connectors.

 

Using a hacksaw, cut the aluminium frame pieces to the measured size.

 

2.1 Cutting frame.png  2.2 Frame cut.png

Step 3

Join the frame together.

 

Insert the corner connectors into the ends of the frame pieces to join them together. Press firmly to ensure the joints are secure and the frame is square.

 

You can check they are square by measuring the diagonals - they should be equal.

 

3.1 Inserting corner braces.png  3.2 Corner brace installed.png

Step 4

Test fit the frame.

 

Place the assembled frame into the window opening to ensure it fits properly. This is an important step to check for any adjustments that may be needed.

 

If the frame is too large, use your hacksaw to make adjustments to the frame pieces or adjust the connectors as necessary for a snug fit.

 

4.1 Test fitting frame.png

Step 5

Cut and insert the flyscreen.

 

Lay the flyscreen mesh over the frame, cutting it with the utility knife while leaving a small overlap on all sides. This overlap is essential for securing the mesh properly.

 

Use the roller tool to press the spline into the grooves of the frame, which will hold the mesh in place tightly.

 

Once secured, trim any excess mesh with the retractable knife for a clean finish.

 

5.1 Laying flyscreen.png  5.2 Installing spline.png  5.3 Excess spline cut.png  5.4 Cutting excess flyscreen.png  5.5 Flyscreen cut.png  5.6 Frame in position.png

Images

1.1 Measure frame height.png

1.2 Measuring frame width.png

2.1 Cutting frame.png

2.2 Frame cut.png

3.1 Inserting corner braces.png

3.2 Corner brace installed.png

4.1 Test fitting frame.png

5.1 Laying flyscreen.png

5.2 Installing spline.png

5.3 Excess spline cut.png

5.4 Cutting excess flyscreen.png

5.5 Flyscreen cut.png

5.6 Frame in position.png

3 Replies
Noyade
Kind of a Big Deal

G'day @MitchellMc /Bunnings.

Any tips/tricks when working with steel (aluminium?) fly mesh?

I truly struggled.

MitchellMc
Bunnings Team Member
Bunnings Team Member

Hi @Noyade,

 

Did you have any particular issues? I know it tends to split if you pull the mesh tight before inserting the spline. I've experienced that before, and the key is to use the spline's insertion to pull slack out of the mesh.

 

Keen to assist.

 

Mitchell

 

Noyade
Kind of a Big Deal

Cheers @MitchellMc 

 

I've got two screen doors to reapply metal flyscreen.

When it gets warmer I'll get back to you and this thread.

Cheers!

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