How to change aluminium mesh fly wire?

[lin27]

 

Hi everyone,

I have an old security/fly screen door at home and I’d like to replace the mesh myself. The current mesh is quite fragile, and I’m thinking of upgrading it to aluminium mesh for better durability (we also have a dog, so I need something stronger).

The mesh on my door is held in place with metal strips and pop rivets, not the usual spline-and-roller type. My questions are:

1. What’s the best way and tools to remove the old mesh and rivets without damaging the frame?

2. Do I need to pre-drill holes in the aluminium mesh itself?

3. Any tips on keeping the mesh tight and even while fixing it back with rivets?

Thanks.

[lin27]

Turns out I bought the wrong bit—it was for 3 mm rivets, but the ones on the door are 4 mm. 😓 Other than that, everything went well. I also picked up a steel one, plus a scissor and a knife, which came to about $100.