How to Make Your Own Solar Window Screens (7-Step Guide)

Window screens can be an important part of your home’s cooling system, but they can also be expensive to buy and install.

If you’re like most people, you’re looking for ways to save money on your energy bills. You may have heard that solar window screens can help keep your home cooler and reduce your air conditioning costs.

Fortunately, there’s a way to make your own solar making your own solar window screens to save money on cooling costs. Not only are solar window screens easy and inexpensive to make, but they also work better than traditional window screens at blocking the sun’s heat.

Table of Contents

How to Make Your Own Solar Window Screens

Let’s dive right into the steps that you need to take to make your own solar window screens.

1. Understand How Solar Window Screens Work

Solar window screens are a great way to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. But how do they work?

Solar window screens work by reflecting sunlight away from your windows. They are usually made of a reflective material, like aluminum foil, that reflects heat away from your windows.

Solar window screens can also be made of a translucent material that allows some light to pass through, but not all. This can help reduce the amount of heat that comes into your home.

Solar window screens are easy to install and can be found at most hardware stores. They are typically mounted on the outside of your windows, but can also be installed on the inside if you prefer.

2. Calculate How Many Solar Window Screens You Need

Calculating how many solar window screens you need is a fairly simple process. You first need to measure the size of each window in your home. Once you have that measurement, you then need to find the right size solar window screen for your needs.

Once you have both numbers, simply divide the size of your window by the size of the solar window screen. This will give you the number of solar window screens you need to purchase.

For example, if your window is 12 square feet and the solar window screen is 24 inches by 36 inches, then you would need two solar window screens to cover that entire window.

Keep in mind that most windows are not a perfect square, so you may need to adjust your calculations accordingly.

If you have any questions, be sure to consult a professional before making your purchase. With a little bit of planning, you can easily find the right number of solar window screens for your home.

3. Gather the Materials You’ll Need to Make Your Solar Window Screens

You’ll need the following materials to make your own solar window screens:

A roll of screen material
Measuring tape
Utility knife
Straight edge (ruler or yardstick)
Staple gun and staples
Black spray paint

Now that you have all of the materials you’ll need, it’s time to get started on your project.

4. Cut the Screening Material to Size

The first thing you need to do is cut the screening material to size. You’ll want to measure the width and height of your window, then add a few inches to each side. This will give you enough material to work with when you’re installing the screens.

Use a straight edge and utility knife to cut the screening material to size. Be careful not to damage the window while you’re working.

If you’re having trouble cutting the material, you can always ask a friend or family member for help. Once the material is cut to size, you’re ready to move on to the next step.

5. Clean the Window

You’ll need to clean the window so that the new screens will adhere properly. Start by removing any dirt, dust, or debris from the surface of the window.

Next, use a mild soap and water to clean the window. Be sure to rinse the window thoroughly so that there is no residue left behind.

Once the window is clean, you’re ready to install the new screens.

6. Sew the Screening Material Together

Now you can start sewing the screening material together. You’ll want to start at one corner of the window and work your way around.

Be sure to leave a few inches of extra material at each end so that you can attach the screens to the window frame.

Once you’ve sewn all four sides of the screen, you’re ready to move on to the next step.

7. Attach the Screening Material to Your Window Frame

Now comes the part where you attach the screening material to your window frame. Start by stapling one end of the material to the frame.

Then, use your hands to stretch the material tight and staple the other end to the frame. Repeat this process for each side of the screen.

Once all four sides are attached, you can trim away any excess material. Be sure not to damage the window while you’re trimming.

Now that the screens are installed, you can sit back and enjoy the view.

Do Solar Screens Really Work?

Many people wonder if solar screens really work. The answer is yes. Solar screens can reduce the amount of heat that enters your home, which can help you save on energy costs.

They also provide protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can damage your skin and furniture over time. So, if you’re looking for a way to improve your home’s energy efficiency and protect your belongings, solar screens are a great option.

Should I Hire a Professional to Build Solar Screens?

You may be wondering if it’s worth it to hire a professional to build your solar screens.

It depends. If you have the time and patience to do it yourself, then go for it! However, if you’re not confident in your ability to do a good job, or you simply don’t have the time, then it might be worth hiring someone.

The most important thing is that you’re happy with the end result. Whichever route you choose, make sure to do your research so you can be sure you’re making the best decision for your home.