What is the Purpose of Screening Splines?

A screening spline plays an essential role in the installation of window screens. It securely holds the screen material in place when rolled into the groove of the screen frame. By keeping the screen fabric taut into the screen frame, the spline prevents it from coming loose. The spline is available in either black or gray color. Black is often used with charcoal fiberglass and aluminum window while the gray one goes with gray fiberglass and bright aluminum.

A screening spline comes in various diameters as well to meet the different thickness of screen materials and varying groove widths of the screen frame. 

In order to ensure that you get the correct size of the spline for your existing frame, show a sample of your old spline. Moreover, splines are made from different kinds of materials, including EPDM (a hard rubber), and hollow core vinyl that makes it easy to work on even if the diameter is too big for the frame. Yet, many people still prefer to use the polyfoam spline because it is very flexible. It is the perfect option for beginners as it is easier to roll in and can be used in a wider variety of screen frames. 

Additionally, a foam screening spline can be compressed so that a larger diameter cord can be used in different situations. One popular style of this spline is the “T-spline”, which is utilized in ultra-thin frames of aluminum storm doors. Its cross-section is shaped in a letter “T”, hence the name. It locks the material in place more securely than other polyfoam splines do. When using it you need to have the exact size because otherwise it won’t work. 

Lastly, you can usually find spline in rolls that look like electrical wires. Alcot Plastics Ltd. manufactures foam splines and offers several benefits over other types, and our team of experienced technicians can guide you through which one is right for you. Contact us to learn more about our variety of splines!