How to Prep Windows and Screens for Bug Season

by Emily Warner | Jun 12, 2025 | Blog | 0 comments

How to prep window screens

There’s nothing quite like the fresh air of a Minnesota summer—until the mosquitoes, gnats, and wasps invite themselves inside. At Weather Shield Home Experts, we believe that keeping bugs out shouldn’t mean keeping the breeze out, too.

Prepping your windows and screens for bug season is one of those small home maintenance tasks that pays big dividends in comfort, energy savings, and peace of mind. Whether you’re airing out the house after a long winter or just trying to enjoy a mosquito-free movie night, this simple checklist can help you stay ahead of the swarm.

Let’s walk through what you can do right now to make sure your windows are ready for the season.

1. Inspect Every Screen—Even the Ones You Don’t Use Often

Start by walking through your home and checking every window screen—yes, even the one in the laundry room or guest bedroom. Look for:

Holes or tears (even small ones can let tiny bugs through)
Loose or warped frames
Screens pulling away from the frame
Missing or broken tabs and fasteners

A damaged screen is basically a wide-open door to pests. If your screens are looking worse for wear, it might be time to repair or replace them.

Quick Fix Tip: Small holes can often be patched with screen repair tape or a DIY screen patch kit from your local hardware store.

2. Deep Clean Your Windows and Screens

Winter can leave behind a layer of dust, grime, and pollen on your windows and screens. Give them a proper cleaning to improve airflow and visibility—and to remove allergens before they make their way inside.

How to Clean Window Screens:

Remove the screens if possible
Use a soft brush attachment with a vacuum to remove loose dirt
Gently scrub with warm, soapy water and a sponge or soft brush
Rinse with a hose and let air-dry completely before reinstalling

How to Clean Window Tracks:

Use a plastic putty knife or old toothbrush to remove debris
Wipe clean with a mix of vinegar and water
Check for buildup that could prevent your windows from closing tightly

3. Check Window Seals and Weather Stripping

Cracked seals and damaged weather stripping don’t just leak air—they can be welcome mats for bugs, especially ants and spiders. Tight seals around your windows are essential for keeping both pests and moisture out.

What to Look For:

Gaps or cracks in caulking
Worn or peeling weather stripping
Condensation between panes (a sign of broken seals in double-pane windows)

If your windows are aging or inefficient, it might be time to consider energy-efficient replacements that also provide better insect protection and insulation.

4. Install or Replace Screen Doors Where Needed

If you love having your front or patio doors open in summer, make sure your screen doors are in good shape, too. Look for:

Sturdy, bug-tight mesh
Self-closing hinges or hydraulic closers
No gaps at the top, sides, or bottom

Screen doors can be especially helpful in high-traffic areas where kids or pets may be coming in and out frequently.

5. Consider Upgrading to Bug-Resistant Screens

Not all screens are created equal. If you live in an area with tiny pests like no-see-ums or seasonal swarms, upgrading to fine mesh screens or pet-resistant screening material can provide better durability and tighter protection.

Some homeowners also explore retractable screens for larger windows or doors—giving you more control over when and how you use them.

6. Keep Landscaping Trimmed Near Windows

Bugs love overgrown areas, especially near windows and doors. Trim back bushes, shrubs, and tall grass to create a less inviting environment. Also, be cautious with placing mulch or flower beds too close to your foundation—moisture and organic material are pest magnets.

Breathe Easy—Without the Bugs

You deserve to enjoy fresh air this summer—without worrying about what’s crawling or flying in through the cracks. Preparing your windows and screens for bug season is a simple, proactive way to keep your home comfortable, efficient, and pest-free.

Let Weather Shield Help You Seal Out the Swarm

At Weather Shield Home Experts, we’re more than just roofing pros—we’re your trusted partners in protecting your entire home exterior, from top to bottom. Whether you need window inspections, screen replacements, or energy-efficient upgrades, we’re here to help you keep the good stuff in and the bugs out.

Schedule your free assessment today and let us make sure your windows are ready for open-air living—Minnesota-style. Because a good summer breeze should never come with an insect invasion.