If you’ve ever fixed a window or door frame, then you understand what a screening spline is all about. It is the flexible cord that helps hold the screen securely in the frame. The market offers several types of splines, which are often included in window screen replacement kits for quick assembly. However, not all screening spline types fit every application. Alcot Plastics manufactures different types of splines, including foam screening spline, round EPDM, flat screen spline, square aluminum, round steel, and round hollow core vinyl spline.
Foam Screening Spline
Foam screening spline is made from round polyfoam. It comes in rolls that resemble electrical wire, but it is solid all the way through. It is one of the easiest materials to work with because it is flexible and easy to handle. Standard diameter sizes for this material include .160, .180, .200, and .250 inches. In the Canadian market, these sizes are sold predominantly by most window suppliers. Alcot Plastics specifically developed the .250-inch size as a do-it-yourself screen replacement option because it is easy to roll in.
Round EPDM Spline
The round EPDM screen spline is made from flexible rubber designed with materials that help it resist UV radiation. In general, it lasts longer than foam screening spline, but it can become brittle when exposed to too much sun over time. One useful characteristic of round EPDM screening spline is that it can stretch slightly as it is rolled into the spline channel. Hollow core vinyl spline also has this characteristic, which makes it useful when fitting larger diameter splines. For beginners, foam screening spline is often considered easier to use because it is easier to roll into the channel and can work with a wide range of frame styles.
T-Spline
T-spline foam is mainly used for very thin screen frames, especially aluminum storm doors. It is designed with a T-shaped cross section, which is where its name comes from. The challenge with T-splines is that they must be the exact size to fit the given application. The biggest advantage of foam screening spline over T-spline is that it can be used in a wider range of window frame sizes.