Even if you buy the best projector, it will only be as good as the projector screen you choose, as in a fixed screen vs a pull-down projector screen. In addition, screens are expensive, so you should know how to repair a projector screen to keep your investment around longer. Read on to learn some common projector screen issues and how to fix them.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Repairing a projector screen only requires vinyl tape for tears and projector screen paint for extreme stains.
- Apply vinyl screen tape to the back of the screen to close the tears.
- For extreme stains and discoloration, use plastic primer and projector screen paint to restore your screen.
Repairing a Projector Screen
The most common projector screen issues are tearing in the vinyl screen or a diminished image and light reflection from stains. If you have an outdoor screen, you should also handle how projectors work to get the best image after your repairs.
Insider Tip
Lay a soft blanket on the ground before laying your projector screen face down. Dust and dirt on the floor might scratch your screen and negatively affect its ability to repel ambient light.
Fixing a Torn Screen
In the same way that repairing a projector keeps your investment around longer, try to patch a tear before shelling out cash to fix a retractable projector screen or to buy a replacement. While you may consider a cheap sewing kit to fix a small incision, the tape is a bit easier. For more extensive tears in the projector screen fabric, consider reaching out to a sewist for help sewing it up, because it will disrupt the projected view of your top-rated quiet projector.
STEP 1 Lie the Screen on the Floor
Lie the screen face down on some towels or soft blankets to avoid scratching the screen with dirt or dust particles.
STEP 2 Close the Tear With Tape
Find the tear and use translucent tape to close it. Try not to use too much tape because even clear video might show on a thin vinyl screen. If you want a more specialized product, consider Tear-Aid from Amazon.
STEP 3 Let the Tape Settle
Allow the tape to settle on the back of your screen. Watch out for any warping or wrinkles as you roll up the screen. If it seems smooth, your screen tear is fixed.
Fixing Stains With Paint
- Difficulty: 4/5
- Time Required: 90 to 120 minutes
- Total Steps: 3
- Tools Needed: Brush, oil-free detergent, plastic primer, projector screen paint, paint roller
If your screen is stained, experts recommend cleaning the screen with soft brushes and a non-abrasive sponge. That said, if the stains are bad enough, you can use plastic primer and projector screen paint to renew your screen.
STEP 1 Clean the Screen and Let it Dry
Use a brush to sweep away any dirt or dust from the screen. Next, use a 1:5 ratio of oil-free detergent and hot water to blot away stains with a non-abrasive sponge.
STEP 2 Mix the Primer
Thoroughly mix plastic primer and paint it on the screen with a soft roller. Don’t use a paintbrush because your paint coats will be uneven, and the bristles might scratch your screen. Let the primer dry before moving on.
STEP 3 Roll on the Screen Paint
Roll a light coat of projection screen paint onto the screen and let it dry. Do two more coats of paint and let them dry, too. You should now have a refreshed projector screen.
Warning
Never use abrasive cleaners or scrubbers to clean your projector screen. Doing so will scratch your screen or, at worst, tear it.
F.A.Q.S
How to adjust motorized projector screens up and down the full length?
On the side of the electric projector screen assembly, there should be two limit switches with an adjustable screw. Loosen or tighten the screw to raise or lower the limits of your projector screen.
How to fix a manual screen’s spring tension?
Remove the side panel of the projector screen assembly. There will be a small metal latch that connects to the spring tension. Use pliers to tighten the spring and do about 5 to 10 additional turns once your projector screen reaches the top. Replace the hatch, and you’re done.
What speed of motor do I need for the projector screen?
Most electric projector screens use 10 to 15 revolutions per minute (RPM) electric motors. The higher the RPMs, the faster your screen will move. That said, a more powerful motor will be louder.
STAT: During the first half of 2019, worldwide projector revenues jumped more than 15% compared with the first half of five years ago. (source)
REFERENCES:
- https://www.k12northstar.org/cms/lib/AK01901510/Centricity/Domain/1090//Computer%20Roll%20Out/howtofixprojectorissues.pdf
- https://elitescreens.com/wp-content/uploads/ScreenMaterial_MaintenanceCare_Sheet.pdf
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kq_aX1C77Ur
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Projection_screen
- https://elitescreens.com/wp-content/uploads/ScreenMaterial_MaintenanceCare_Sheet.pdf
