Symptoms
- Screen pops out when the window is opened or in wind
- Corners don't seat into the frame channel
- Retaining clips or tabs feel loose
- Screen sits crooked in the opening
Likely causes
- CommonWorn or broken retaining clips/tabsThe small plastic or metal tabs that hold the screen in the track wear out or snap over time.
- CommonScreen frame slightly warped or bentA bent aluminum frame won't sit flush in the channel.
- PossibleWrong size screen for the openingA screen bought or built slightly undersized will rattle loose.
- PossibleTrack channel damaged or filled with debrisDirt or a dented track can stop the screen from seating properly.
What to do
- Remove the screen and inspect the corners for cracked or missing plastic corner clips.
- Check the retaining tabs or pins along the top and bottom rails for wear or breakage.
- Clean the window's screen track thoroughly to rule out debris pushing the screen out of alignment.
- Gently bend a warped aluminum frame back into square using your hands or a rubber mallet with a wood block.
- Replace broken corner clips or tension springs, available separately at hardware stores.
- If the frame is the wrong size, measure the opening and have a hardware store or screen shop cut a properly fitted replacement frame.
- Reinstall and test that it holds under light pressure and normal window operation.
Tools and parts
- Rubber mallet
- Tape measure
- Flathead screwdriver
Screen frame corner clipsSearch: “window screen corner clip”
Screen frame tension springSearch: “screen frame tension spring pin”
When to call a pro
Call a hardware store's screen shop for a custom-cut replacement frame if the size is wrong or the frame is badly bent.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.