The Golden State: Where & How to Live, Secure, Visit, Enjoy and Thrive in California

Care And Repair Of The House

By use of the method of storage described above, the screens are out of harm's way, removed from floor dampness, have the advantage of free air circulation, and in lying flat are not likely to become warped. The screen sash and window frames should be numbered so that they can be readily identified in the spring. They can be inconspicuously marked in Roman numerals with a small chisel or screw driver. One easy method is to use thumb tacks with numbers clearly visible on the top. One tack with the number 3, for example, may be placed in the screen sash and another with the same number may be placed in the window sill, or in some convenient window location.

Assembling " Knock-Down " Screens.

Tools.

Saw, claw hammer, nail set, and small flat paintbrush.

Materials.

Screen frames complete, screen wire, small tacks, paint, and a small quantity of putty and glue; also, if desired, four angle irons with screws for each frame.

It is possible to purchase at reasonable prices so-called knockdown screen frames, which are easy to .assemble. These sets come complete in every detail, excepting the screening itself, which leaves the purchaser free to select whatever grade of screen wire he desires. They include 4 pieces, or 1 each, for the 2 sides and the top and bottom. These pieces are properly notched at one end to insure a firm joint. The other end is left square, to be sawed to the proper length to fit the window. Grooves are already cut in the side pieces to permit sliding, and provision is made for tacking on the screening, and attaching the molding. In addition to the four pieces mentioned, there are four pieces of molding to be tacked over the edges of the screening, two sliding rails to be attached to the sides of the window frame, and a metal lift, or handle, for raising the screen. A sufficient quantity of nails and tacks is provided to complete the job. To make the frame hold its rigidity and remain square, small angle irons should be screwed into each corner. Paint the joints with waterproof glue before nailing them, countersink the nails, and fill nail holes with putty to make a neat job. A priming coat and one or two finishing coats, in any color desired, will complete the work.

Screens Placed Inside of Windows.

In summer cottages, and sometimes in permanent dwelling houses, it may be desirable to have the screens placed inside of the windows. Inside screens are necessary if there are casement windows which open outward.

In the case of double-hung windows, half-length screens may be desired. These can be made to slide up and down on runners placed just inside the lower window sash. The screens should be placed as close to the window sash as possible, so that space will not be left between the sash rail and the screen frame, where insects may enter.