Ordering custom fly screens online doesn't have to be a guessing game. While the idea of DIY measurement might feel a bit daunting, it is actually a straightforward task that anyone can master with a bit of patience.
The secret to a professional-grade fit lies in the accuracy of your initial numbers. When your measurements are spot on, your new screens will snap into place, sit flush against the frame, and provide a seamless barrier against insects while letting the breeze flow through.
Here is everything you need to know about how to measure windows and doors for fly screens like a pro.
Essential Tools for Precise Measurement
Before you start, gather these simple tools to ensure your data is reliable:
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Steel Tape Measure: Avoid fabric or plastic tapes; they sag and stretch, leading to errors. A stiff steel tape is vital for capturing long spans accurately.
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Notepad and Pen: Never rely on memory. Record every dimension immediately.
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A Smartphone: Snap a quick photo of the window or door as you measure it. This helps you keep track of which measurement belongs to which room.
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The Metric Standard: Always record your dimensions in millimetres (mm). Custom manufacturing operates on precision, and millimetres eliminate the ambiguity found in centimetres or inches.
How to Measure Windows for Fly Screens
To get a screen that fits perfectly, you need to find the "true" size of the window recess.
1. Measuring the Width
Place your tape measure inside the frame. Take three separate horizontal measurements: across the top, middle, and bottom. Frames can warp or settle over time, so these numbers might differ slightly.
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The Golden Rule: Always record the smallest of the three width measurements. This ensures the screen won't jam during installation.
2. Measuring the Height
Follow the same logic vertically. Measure the distance from the top inner edge to the bottom inner edge at the left, centre, and right side.
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The Golden Rule: Again, record the smallest height measurement.
Understanding Different Window Frame Types
The style of your window determines exactly where you should place your tape measure.
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Inside Mount: This is the standard for most modern aluminium windows. The screen sits tucked inside the window recess. You measure from the innermost edges of the frame.
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Face Fit: Common in older timber homes, this is where the screen sits on the flat outer face of the window frame because there isn't a deep enough recess. In this case, you measure the flat area where you intend to mount the screen.
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Sliding Windows: Pay close attention to the tracks. Your screen needs to fit within the designated track area while still having enough clearance to operate without friction.
How to Measure for Fly Screen Doors
Measuring a door is similar to a window but requires even more attention to detail due to the larger surface area.
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Hinged Doors: Measure the width of the opening between the internal door jambs (top, middle, bottom) and the height from the threshold to the underside of the top lintel. Use the smallest figures.
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Sliding Screen Doors: You must measure the vertical distance between the top and bottom tracks. Ensure the tape sits deep within the "U" of the track to get the full height.
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Pro Tip: Never measure an old, existing screen door. It may have bent or shrunk over years of use. Always measure the door frame itself.
3 Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Rounding Off: If a measurement is 853 mm, don't round it to 850 or 855. Those few millimetres are the difference between a bug-proof seal and a frustrating gap.
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Measuring Once: Houses settle. A frame that looks square rarely is. Always take three measurements for both width and height.
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Mixing Up "Opening" vs. "Frame": Manufacturers need the clear opening size—the actual space where the screen will live—not the total exterior size of the window unit.
After You Measure: The Final Check
Once you have your list of dimensions:
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Double-Check Your Notes: Verify that you haven't swapped height and width.
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Label Your Rooms: Note "Kitchen Left" or "Bedroom 1" next to the numbers. This makes the installation day much faster.
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Order with Confidence: When using a custom service like Retractable Screens, you simply input your smallest width and height. The manufacturing process handles the rest, ensuring the final product accounts for the necessary tolerances.
Summary FAQ
What if my window isn't square? This is very common. By taking three measurements and using the smallest one, you ensure the screen fits into the narrowest part of the frame without getting stuck.
Do I need to subtract "play" room? Generally, no. Most custom manufacturers prefer you to provide the actual opening size. They will make the minor deductions (usually 2-3 mm) during production to ensure the screen slides in smoothly.
Why use millimetres? Millimetres are the industry standard for precision. Using them eliminates the risk of "rounding errors" that occur with larger units of measure.