Written by

Tamatha Hazen

May 24, 2023

Edited by

Kristen Cramer

Fact-checked by

Tom Grupa

Average window screen replacement cost

Window screen replacement costs $100 to $350 per window installed for standard-sized windows. Custom screens cost $150 to $500 per window installed, depending on the material. Window screen repairs cost $10 to $120 per window with the lowest costs for a DIY repair kit to fix small holes and tears.

Cost of window screens by type

Window screen prices by material

Fiberglass and aluminum are the two most commonly used screen materials. Both are affordable, lightweight, and do not rust. However, fiberglass screens tend to stretch over time and need replacing more often than aluminum screens.

High-end materials like copper, bronze, and brass are more durable and costly. These metals will tarnish over time taking on a natural patina. Stainless steel window screens are the strongest material and unlike copper and brass, they do not develop a patina but keep their shiny color.

Window screen replacement cost calculator

The primary factors that affect window screen replacement costs are the window size, screen materials, and labor rates in your area. Materials cost $85 to $300, depending on the window size and material selected. Professional labor adds $15 to $50 per window, on average.

Other factors that affect the total cost include:

• Brand name screens – Andersen, Pella, and Marvin window screens are made of high-end materials manufactured to fit the frame specifications for their standard prefab windows. If replacing the full window instead of only the screen, expect to pay these prices:

  • Andersen windows cost $400 to $4,000 per window installed.

  • Pella windows cost $300 to $3,500 per window installed.

  • Marvin windows cost $800 to $2,000 per window installed.

• Window location & accessibility –High windows that require scaffolding and those obstructed by kitchen or bath fixtures take longer to install, increasing labor costs.

• Rescreening vs replacement –Replacing the entire window screen and frame costs a bit more than just replacing the fabric mesh—also called rescreening—but the ease of replacement may be worth the cost. Also, when the frame is worn, faded, or dented, replacing the frame and mesh together is a better option.

• Professional labor vs. DIY –Replacing window screens as a DIY project is cheaper than hiring professional labor. The savings depend on the type of pro you hire.

  • Window screen installers charge $15 to $50 per window to replace screens.

  • Handyman labor costs $50 to $80 per hour, with a skilled handyman replacing multiple screens in an hour.

Signs that you need to fix your window screens

Window screens last around 10 to 15 years, depending on the climate and screen material. With regular cleaning, you can extend the screen's lifespan by another 5 years or more. Here are a few signs that it's time to replace your window screens:

• Holes or tears in the mesh screen that let in bugs

• Faded or discolored screens that reduce visibility

• Bent or damaged frame that makes it difficult to open and close windows

• Loose or damaged spline that causes sagging mesh

• Aged, brittle screens that no longer look good

Window screen repair cost

Window screen repairs cost $10 to $120, depending on the damage. Minor holes and tears are easily fixed DIY with screen repair tape or a patch kit from most home improvement stores. Large holes or severe damage are much harder to repair and may require a screen replacement instead.

Patio or door screen repair cost

Replacing patio or door screen mesh is similar to replacing window screens, but doors and patios are prone to more damage due to their frequent use and large size. When the patio screen or door is too old or damaged to repair, replacement may be necessary.

• Replacing a screen door costs $170 to $350, including installation.

• Rescreening a porch costs $600 to $3,500.

DIY window screen repair cost

A DIY window screen repair kit costs $10 to $20. Kits are sold at most home improvement stores and include replacement mesh fabric, a rolling tool, a spline removal hook, and a replacement spline to secure the mesh to the frame.

Window screen replacement FAQs

Who replaces window screens?

A window installer, handyman, or local hardware store replaces window screens.

Can you replace just the screen on a window?

Yes, if the window screen is torn but the screen frame is in good condition, you can replace just the mesh screen—a process called "rescreening". If the screen frame is warped or damaged, you can replace it with a new framed screen without replacing the window itself.

If the window frame is rotted or damaged or the glass is broken, replacing the window costs $400 to $2,000, depending on the window material.

Are window screens standard sizes?

Window screens come in standard and custom sizes, with custom screens costing more. The three most common screen sizes are:

• 18" x 14"

• 18" x 18"

• 20" x 20"

Should I repair or replace my window screen?

If the window screen has a small hole or tear, it is often cheaper to simply repair the screen. If the mesh has a large hole or tear or is coming loose from the frame, it is best to replace the entire screen.

Does Home Depot, Lowe's, or Ace Hardware repair window screens?

Yes, most home improvement and hardware stores offer window screen repair services. Each store offers its own pro referral services, but they often work with the lowest bidding contractors. Choosing a window screen replacement service from HomeGuide ensures quality workmanship from a reputable contractor.

Should I clean my window screens?

Regularly cleaning your window screens can improve indoor air quality and extend the life of the screen. Follow these steps to clean your screens:

1. Remove the screens.

2. Rinse with water.

3. Clean with warm water, dish detergent, and a gentle brush.

4. Wipe the screens with a clean, dry rag.

5. Allow the screens to completely air-dry before reinstalling.

Getting estimates from window screen repair services near you

Before hiring window screen replacement companies, follow these suggestions when it is time to replace or repair your torn window screens:

• Choose from licensed, bonded, and insured repair companies.

• Get several estimates with the same materials to compare.

• Read online reviews from previous work on HomeGuide and Google.

• Ask for a detailed written estimate, contract, and warranty information in advance.

• Avoid paying large deposits, and make the final payment only when you are satisfied with the completed project.

Questions to ask

Here are some questions to ask when hiring a window screen repair service:

• How long have you been repairing window screens?

• Can my damaged screens be repaired, or do they need to be replaced?

• What material do you recommend for my screen replacements?

• How much will the installation cost?

• How long will the installation take?

• Do you offer a free estimate?

• What is included in your estimate?

• Do you have references for past work?

• What kind of warranty is included with the repair?