bugs and screens

Question

At night with the lights on we're sometimes getting inundated. Can't tell if the little buggers are smaller than the screen openings or they're finding they're way in through the bottom "brush" attachment or slight gaps in the corners. Any ideas?
Thank you,
Dave

Tom · Accepted Answer

There could be any number of explanations for how bugs are getting in through your screens, but I always recommend checking the weatherstripping first. That would be the brush attachment you mention, though there might be more along the sides of the screen, too. Check its current state and see if it's deteriorating in any way. Even a small gap would be enough to let bugs sneak in.

If the brush is in good condition then your next step is to make sure there are no holes in the mesh itself. Again, even the smallest hole is enough. Don't take any gap for granted.

Finally, if all seems as it should be, then check to make sure the screen is square in the frame. Sometimes when older houses settle, the frame can be come slightly skewed, which can cause the screen to shift from side to side ever so slightly.