DIY Guide for Arched Screen Porch Installation

Screening arches doesn’t have to be complicated. With SNAPP® Screen Track, you can achieve professional-quality results on curved openings—without expensive custom frames or specialized fabrication.

Why SNAPP® is Ideal for Arched Openings

Traditional screening systems struggle with curves, often requiring costly custom builds. SNAPP® Screen Track changes that by offering:

• Flexible PVC and aluminum options
• Easy DIY installation
• Clean, professional finishes
• Ability to handle everything from gentle arches to full circles

Whether you're a homeowner or contractor, SNAPP® makes screening arches faster, easier, and more affordable.

Don’t Be Intimidated by Arches

Arched openings may require a few extra steps compared to standard rectangular openings—but they’re completely achievable for DIYers. Every project shown here is a real customer installation.Treat the opening like any other screen porch project and follow standard SNAPP® installation guidelines. The only difference is how the track is applied to the curved portion.

Choosing the Right Track for Arches

PVC vs. Aluminum

• PVC SNAPP® Screen Track (Recommended)
  • Flexible and ideal for most arches
  • Can bend naturally or with minor adjustments
  • Best choice for DIY projects
• Aluminum SNAPP® Screen Track
  • Does not flex
  • Requires a commercial bender
  • Must use unfinished “mill” aluminum (coating applied after bending)

In colder climates, some projects may use a combination of PVC and aluminum for optimal performance.

Types of Arched Openings

Top Arch: Sides are generally straight, base is generally flat, and only the top is arched

Full Arch: The base is generally flat and the remainder of the opening is arched

Circles: Self-explanatory, entire opening is curved

Radius Corners: Opening is generally square or rectangular but some, or all, corners have a radius

Installing PVC SNAPP® Screen Track on Arches

Lazy (Slow) Curves

Depending upon the radius required, PVC SNAPP screen Track will either flex right into the opening or require “relief” cuts.Lazy “slow” curves are the easiest to work with. PVC SNAPP screen will flex right into place or, at most, require slight heat from a heat gun to fully form into the opening. Flex the extrusion into place and mount following standard mounting instructions.

Tight (Fast) Curves

Tight “fast” curves will require relief cuts to accommodate the tight radius. Relief cuts allow the PVC SNAPP screen Track to compact upon itself during compression. These are easily made using a power miter saw or hand hack saw.  Typically, cuts are made every inch in the extrusion head. (mounting flange is not cut) Watch the process for making relief cuts in PVC SNAPP screen Track below.

What Are Relief Cuts?

Relief cuts are easy to make and allow the PVC SNAPP screen Track to be formed into a circle as small as 8” in diameter. After making relief cuts, simply flex the extrusion into place and mount following standard mounting instructions. Relief cuts will close during installation, any remaining relief cut gaps will be fully covered by screen and spline during installation.

• Cuts close naturally during installation
• Any visible gaps are covered by screen and spline
• Once installed, the finish remains clean and professional

Screen Installation

Screen installation is exactly the same as described in our other installation videos, but some customers may find it easier to spline the base first then move to the top. Once on the top, start in the center and work down each side of the radius. Once the base and radius are complete move on to screening the sides of the opening. Screen sides as normal - prime hand side first then non-prime hand side second. Examine the entire screened opening and make any adjustments needed prior to trimming any screen or spline ends.

Final Thoughts

SNAPP® Screen Track makes it possible to screen even the most complex arches without custom fabrication or professional installers. With the right approach and a little patience, you can achieve a seamless, high-end finish on any curved opening.