Spring is the season for Screens!
Spring is the season for Screens!
Today is the first day of spring in the year 3/20/2021. Steve Tristan in Columbus Ohio shares his thoughts on spring time and how beautiful it is outside. It’s time to start that spring cleaning and get some new window screens, screen doors, and blinds.
All the flowers are blooming, the bees are buzzing, and the eggs are hatching this spring.
The amount of rain this year brought California out of drought. The state had been in a serious drought since 2011. snow packed Mountains, as well as the lakes, rivers and reservoirs are flowing massive amounts of water.
In addition, California wildflowers are in super bloom, including the well know poppy because of the increased amount of rain. Golden poppies have started blanketing the Antelope Valley, near our shop in Acton.
Spring is a beautiful season, rain is needed to sustain life, and wildflowers is one of God’s many gifts to us all. In the mist of all wonderfulness, there is a silent predator out there waiting to be born. We can expect a vicious mosquito season to arrive early. The most notorious of these pests is the ankle biter mosquito. This mosquito also known as the Aedes Mosquito, will find its way on your legs as you are walking across a field or even on the side walk. Originally from Africa, this mosquito has migrated around the world from Africa and now is found throughout Southern California. Why is the Aedes “Ankle Biting” Mosquito so unique compared to other mosquitoes? It bites during the day!
There has been a total of three new Aedes species that are continuing to extend their ranges. People have not built a high immunity to these types of invader bites and posts on social media exploded last year. This year, the social media feeds will explode even further this year.
So now it’s time to add another task in your to-do list and that is to clean, replace or repair window screens.
Window screens are exposed to wind, rain, sun, snow, pollen, and insects all over the year. Cleaning window screens and doors seems to be boring always but cleaning them in the Spring season lets you to relax during the summer and enjoy the summer breeze without worrying about any bugs or other unpleasant insects. You can even check around your window frames to see if the seals and mesh is all right. Usually cold weather distorts the seals and rubbers.
Now it’s time to go over the process of cleaning window screens.
Window Screen Maintenance
Annual Cleaning and Inspection
Performing an annual cleaning and semi-annual inspection of your window screens is crucial for maintaining their functionality and extending their lifespan. This process involves:
- Removing screens from windows
- Inspecting for damage, such as tears, bent frames, or gaps between the screen and frame
- Cleaning screens to remove dirt, dust particles, and debris
- Checking for proper fit and reinstalling screens
Cleaning Process
To clean your window screens effectively:
- Gather necessary materials: towel, scrubbing brush, garden hose, drop cloth, rubber gloves, bucket, and cleaning solution
- Remove screens and lay them on a flat surface to prevent frame bending
- Rinse screens with a low-pressure garden hose to remove loose dirt and dust
- Gently scrub both sides of the screen with a soft brush dipped in a cleaning solution
- Rinse thoroughly and inspect for missed areas
- Air dry screens vertically in the sun or towel dry to remove excess water
- Apply a hydrophobic coating or water repellent for easier future cleaning (optional)
Benefits of Clean Screens
Maintaining clean window screens offers several advantages:
- Improved air quality by reducing dust and allergens entering your home
- Enhanced fresh air flow and clearer views
- Increased screen lifespan and durability
- Better protection against bugs and debris
Screen Repair and Replacement
If you notice any screen damage during your inspection, consider the following options:
- Screen Mending: For small tears, use a screen patch kit or professional screen mending services
- Screen Replacement: For extensive damage or worn-out screens, opt for complete screen replacement
- Professional Services: Consult a local glass doctor or professional window screen repair service for complex issues or if you’re unsure about DIY repairs
Additional Considerations
- Weather Conditions: Frequent wind exposure and harsh weather can impact screen durability
- Gutter Maintenance: Clean gutters to prevent debris from falling onto screens
- Vacuum Filters: Regularly clean or replace vacuum filters to maintain indoor air quality
- Screen Materials: Consider aluminum or fiberglass screens for durability and improved mesh visibility
By incorporating these spring cleaning and maintenance tips, you can ensure your window screens are ready to provide fresh air flow and protection against insects throughout the warmer months. Remember to inspect your screens regularly and address any issues promptly to maintain their effectiveness and prolong their lifespan.
