BC's wet winters are harder on window screens than its summers. Moisture, wind and debris take a quiet toll from November to March. A short fall routine protects your screens and your view come spring.
Clean before you store or seal
Dirt and pollen left on a screen hold moisture through the winter, accelerating mesh breakdown and frame corrosion. Hose each screen down, wipe the frame with mild soapy water, and let it fully dry — never store a damp screen.
Remove or leave in place?
For double-hung and casement windows you won't open until spring, removing screens lets more light in and protects the mesh from storms. Label each screen with its window (a bit of tape on the frame) so reinstallation is quick. For sliding and patio doors you use year-round, leave the screen in place but check the track for leaves and water.
Store them flat and dry
Stack removed screens flat in a dry, sheltered spot — a garage shelf or spare room — away from where things will lean against them. Never prop them on edge where they can bow.
Inspect while they're down
This is the moment to spot tears, sagging and corroded corners. Note what needs re-screening and order replacements over the winter so they're ready to install the first warm week of spring.
A half-hour each fall adds years to every screen.