Say Goodbye to DIY! The EASIEST WINDOW BUG SCREENS Ever!
Today, I’m saying goodbye to DIY window screens — and sharing the solutions that finally worked for me. Whether you’re looking to keep bugs out or let fresh air in, I’ll show you two quick, affordable options that will make your life easier. Plus, I’ll share my secret to staying dry inside when it’s raining outside - and your windows are cracked open (hint: it’s all about those window deflectors!).
Links to products, devices and gear featured in this video
My DIY Window Screen Attempt
Window screens were one of the last things I tackled on my build, and I was determined to come up with a DIY solution. I measured all the windows, cut some patio door screen material, and even started looking for magnets and sewing supplies to finish the edges. But honestly? I was burned out. After everything else I’d done, the thought of sewing, cutting and getting the fit just right was overwhelming.
That’s when a friend suggested pre-made window screens — the kind you slide over the window frame and close the door. At first, I was hopeful. These would have worked great on my front driver and passenger doors, but I’d already made airtight window shades for those windows. They weren’t what I needed.
What I really wanted were screens for my minivan sliding doors. I have a fan mounted near one of those windows, and that’s where I need ventilation. Unfortunately, those pullover screens just aren’t designed for wide sliding doors.
Enter Gutter Guards: An Affordable Off-the-Shelf Solution
That’s when I stumbled across a surprisingly clever option: cheap gutter guards. You can find these at any hardware store for around $3 each and they come in white or brown. They already have tiny holes for airflow, and if you look closely, there’s a micro-mesh that keeps bugs out. They're 36 inches wide and made from vinyl, so they’re super easy to cut to size.
Cutting Gutter Guards to Fit
You’ve got three options for cutting these:
- Hacksaw – My least favorite option because it’s wobbly and doesn’t give a clean cut.
- Power Tools – A miter saw or circular saw will cut clean and fast, but not everyone has those.
- Tin Snips – This is the best budget-friendly option. Tin snips are precise, easy to use, and great for cutting aluminum or vinyl.
Installing the Gutter Guards
Gutter guards work best on side door windows with a flat top. Avoid curved windows (like those on the front) because the material will become too flimsy once you cut it.
Installation is straightforward:
- Start with your window rolled down.
- Slide the gutter guard onto the window track, bend the sides inward and hold it in place as you roll the window up. It’s a bit of a juggling act, but it works! If you have a friend to help, even better.
For most people, this setup is perfect. The screens are secure, bugs stay out, and airflow is great. But for me, they weren’t a perfect fit because of my 12-volt fan. The fan hangs much lower than the gutter guard, and I wanted to roll the window all the way down to maximize airflow. So, back to the drawing board I went.
The Perfect Solution: Magnetic Window Screens
With my window measurements in hand, I started searching online for pre-made magnetic window screens. And as luck would have it, I found the perfect match: sunroof screens for just $16.
These screens fold up small, are incredibly easy to install and have thin magnetic strips sewn into the edges. They stick right to the metal frame of my van’s windows. For extra security on windy days, I added rubber-coated magnets in the corners. I also installed eyebolts on the magnets so they’re easy to remove.
What’s even better is that these magnetic screens don’t interfere with opening or closing the sliding door, so you can leave them in place.
Staying Dry with Window Deflectors
Now, here’s where things get even better: window deflectors. I added WeatherTech-brand window deflectors to all my side windows, and they’re a game-changer. These custom-fit deflectors:
- Reduce wind noise.
- Are easy to install.
- Let you keep the windows rolled down a few inches while it’s raining without getting water inside.
When paired with the magnetic screens, the setup is perfect. The screens snap over the window deflectors, so bugs stay out, fresh air comes in and rain rolls off outside the window. I tested this setup on a rainy day, and it worked flawlessly. The water trickled down the outside of the deflector while the inside stayed completely dry.
Sure, in a monsoon or hurricane, things would get wet. But for everyday rain? This combo works like a charm.
Final Thoughts
I’ll admit it — I dreaded dealing with window screens and put it off for far too long. But in the end, this turned out to be one of the easiest and most satisfying parts of the build. If you’re like me and want simple solutions that work, skip the DIY frustration. Try these gutter guards for a quick fix or invest in magnetic screens for a clean, versatile option.
And don’t forget the window deflectors — they’re worth every penny for staying dry and bug-free.
Thanks for reading, and until next time, stay cool and comfortable out there.