How To Measure Solar Screens with Window Tracks
Solar Window Screens normally covers the entire window to attain maximum cooling benefits.
Check the Window for Solar Screen "Tracks"
What Are Solar Screen Tracks?
First check for a U-Shaped Channel at the Top of the window frame.
You should find the "Top U-Channel" that may be 3/8" to 1/2" deep.
This is where the top of the screen with Leaf Springs or Tension Springs will slip up into.
Next check to see that there is a recessed area on both sides of the window running top to bottom for the solar screen to lay in. This is called "Side Tracks".
Now Check for a Lip at the bottom of the window straight below the top U-Channel.
You should find the "Bottom Lip" may be only 1/16"" to 3/16" deep (Not as deep as the top).
This is what the bottom of the solar screen will slip behind to hold it in place.
STOP: If your windows DO NOT have these characteristics, then there are not "Tracks" for full size solar screens. You should check the How To Guides for other ways to attach solar screens to your windows.
Measuring the Solar Screen "Height"
Put the end of a metal measuring tape all the way into the Top U-Channel and hold it as straight down as possible.
IMPORTANT: The hook on the metal tape must be small enough to go all the way into the top U-Channel.
- Make sure the measuring tape is all the way up into into the Top U-Channel.
- You should measure to about 1/16" Above of the Top Edge of the Bottom Lip.
- Provide measurements to the nearest 1/16".
- This measurement is your solar screen 'Height'.
IMPORTANT: The concept is that when you insert the solar screen up in the deep Top U-Channel, it has to be short enough to clear the Top Edge of the Bottom Lip, then the springs push the screen down into place behind the lip.
Measuring the Solar Screen "Width"
Put the end of a metal measuring tape from left to right and hold it as straight as possible.
IMPORTANT: The left and right should just be a L-Shape or Flat areas. You cannot insert a window screen into U-Shaped Channels on more than two opposing sides.
- Place measuring to left side of solar Screen Track opening.
- Measure to the right side and Subtract about 1/8".
- Do not measure the tolerance too tight to allow easy insertion and removal.
- Provide measurements to the nearest 1/16".
- This measurement is your solar screen 'Width'.
Your Solar Screen "Hardware"
The typical Hardware used on these type of solar screens are:
Leaf Springs or Tension Springs on Top,
Lift Tabs on Bottom.
These Hardware Options are found on our Custom Solar Screens order Pages:
Installing your Full Size Solar Screen
First, insert the top of the solar screen with the springs into the deep top U-Channel enough to compress the springs.
Then slip the bottom of the solar screen behind the Bottom Lip. The springs should push the screen down to hold it in place.
Quality Screen Co. Offers These "How To" Guides to Provide Some Guidance and Tips on Various Activities Related to Measuring, Ordering or Installing Window Screens, Solar Screens, Roll-Away Retractable Window & Door Screens, Porch & Patio Screening Systems and Other Do-It-Yourself Screening Projects. Remember That We Cannot See Your Windows or Doors and That You Are Responsible For Determining Your Own Specific Installation Needs. If the How To Guides Do Not Seem to Describe Your Project or You Do Not Understand Them, Feel Free to Contact us.
Back to Solar Screen Measuring Guides
Conditions of Use 
