I needed a bird screen for a 3-in. HVAC pipe that was exiting a building. I hunted around the hardware store for a preformed piece of screen, but quickly realized I’d have to make my own. Using readily available tools and materials, I was able to make the screen in no time.
First, I drilled a 3-in. hole in a 2×6 with a hole saw and kept the plug. Next, I laid 1/4-in. hardware cloth over the hole in the 2×6 and drove the plug back into its position. With the plug flush with the 2×6, I used a grinder to remove the excess wire. I popped out the plug and admired the friction-fit screen before installing it in the pipe.
Mike Simonsen, Black Diamond, WA
Edited and Illustrated by Charles Miller
From Fine Homebuilding #246
