Typical costs range from $125 to $450 per screen.
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Window screen replacement typically costs $125 to $452 per screen, with an average of $300 per screen, but other factors might increase this price.* Window screens keep pesky mosquitoes and flies out of your home. They also provide shade, fresh air, and extra security. They do eventually tear or wear down, though—becoming a serious eyesore.
We’ve used our research on the best window brands to compile this guide to window screen replacement costs.
*Cost figures are based on 2022 reports from multiple sources, including The Home Depot, Fixr, and Angi.
The average cost of window screen replacement is around $300 per screen. A simple, standardized model can cost as low as $100 per screen while a solar or security screen can run as high as $1,000.
The type of window screen you choose and its material have the biggest impact on cost.
Window Replacement Cost
Replacement windows on average range from $300 to $1,200.
GET QUOTESingle-Hung Windows
Single-hung windows on average cost $150 to $400 per window.
GET QUOTEEnergy Efficient Upgrades
Double-pane installation typically ranges from $450 to $1,000 per window.
GET QUOTEStainless steel is one of the toughest and longest-lasting window screen materials, making it a great option for coastal homes. Copper and brass window screens are more aesthetically appealing and last longer than more affordable options such as vinyl and fiberglass.
Security screens use a high-tensile stainless steel mesh system that prevents forced entry while providing ventilation. Solar screens are dark window screens that deflect sunlight and reduce glare. Both of these screens allow you to view the outdoors but block outsiders from peering into your home.
Below is a breakdown of cost estimates for window screens by material, including installation.
$35–$200
$45–$400
$50–$300
$55–$1,000
: $90–$850
$120–$1,000
$150–$900
There are two main types of window screens: movable and custom. Movable window screens are more common. Manufacturers create them in standardized sizes for convenient installation, which also makes them less expensive than custom options.
Here’s the average price for each type of new screen, including installation costs:
These prefabricated (prefab)
window screens
come in several
standard sizes
that are factory-made.
You must order a custom window screen if you have an uncommon window size or specific design, such as a shaped or accent window. Custom window screens are calculated by square footage. The average cost per square foot can range from $0.25 to $25. The installer must also make and install a custom frame.
Aside from the screen type and material, several other factors influence the cost of replacing your window screens.
Like replacement windows, window screens come from different brands at varying price levels. Well-known brands, such as Pella and Andersen, offer high-end window screens made with aluminum mesh or custom colors.
Lesser-known brands with affordable options made from fiberglass mesh may be more cost-effective. Do your due diligence and research the window brand you’re interested in before buying.
Installing a new window screen may seem like a simple, do-it-yourself (DIY) job, but hiring a professional ensures the installation is done correctly and prevents more frequent replacement.
Labor to replace a preassembled screen costs $15 to $20. Labor costs for custom screens includes the price of making the screen, increasing to $25 to $50 per screen.
Professionals usually base labor prices on the project’s size and intensity. Replacing several screens simultaneously is more cost-effective than replacing only one screen.
Where the window is located and how easy it is to access also impacts labor prices. Working at high elevations carries an increased risk and takes more time, so window screen repair or replacement on higher floors costs more.
Similarly, you’ll pay more for labor to work on a window in a spot that’s hard to access to compensate for the complex installation.
You may save money by rescreening instead of replacing the whole screen and frame. Rescreening involves keeping the window screen frame and replacing only the screen material. We recommend this option if your window screen frames are still in good condition. If your screen frame is old, worn, or damaged, it’s best to replace it, too.
Most home improvement projects are best handled by professionals. That includes window screen replacement, though it’s not impossible to do it yourself.
Window screen replacement is not simply taking out the old screen and putting in the new one. It requires precise measurements, realigning the window’s spline, and ensuring the window is sealed properly. You may also require professional assistance if you need a custom window screen due to unique dimensions or challenging material to cut. At $15 to $50 per screen, labor is typically less than a third of the total cost.
You can accidentally damage your window trying to get out an old one or put in a new one, so you’re probably better off hiring an installer. If you have a standard-size window and are determined to handle the project yourself, you’ll pay $20 to $80 for preassembled models that are easy to install.
We recommend that homeowners hire a professional window installation company for screen replacement. This will ensure your window screens are secure and in the best condition possible.
We suggest getting estimates from at least three companies before hiring an installer. If you want to keep costs low to focus on other home improvement projects, look for an affordable window replacement company. Use our tool below to find top local installers in your area.
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Window screens come in both custom and standard sizes. Prefabricated window screens come in standard sizes of 5/16 inch, 3/8 inch, and 7/16 inch.
Measuring window screens is similar to measuring windows. First, measure the screen’s width or the shortest side. Next, measure the outside edge of the window screen frame for length. Finally, measure the longest side for height.
You can fix a ripped window screen by patching it if the tear is minor and just a small hole. Screens with large holes and rips should be replaced, not patched.
Have you noticed small holes or rips in your window screens? Are the screen’s edges old and frayed—potentially pulling away from the frame? Is the mesh loose, mangled or unsightly? If so, you’re probably ready for new window screens.
Fortunately, installing new screens can be simple. Our pros have put together this easy guide to installing new window screens in your home.
While replacing your window screens is not a perfect solution to replacing, worn, broken, and inefficient windows, getting new screens can make working windows more enjoyable by:
Ready to get started? Here’s what to do:
Sometimes, you’ll just need to replace one screen that has some damage, rather than all of them. The only way to tell is to do a visual check. Look at each screen from inside and outside your home, looking for holes, tears, fraying, looseness, and other signs the screen needs replacement.
If the frame is in good shape and it’s just the screen that’s damaged, DIY repairs are an option. If the frame itself is broken, it’s worthwhile to buy a full replacement screen.
The easiest way to update your window screens is to simply order a set of new ones from the manufacturer. Usually, this replacement process is quick and simple:
If you’ve decided you can salvage the existing frames and just want to replace the mesh of the screen, you’ll need to take a few extra steps.
You’ll need a tape measure, marking pencil, scissors, heavy-duty tape, and a screen tool (easily available at home improvement stores).
You’ll also need plenty of screen mesh, as well as spline—a cord that goes inside the groove of the frame to hold the mesh in place.
Did you know window screens come in different materials? Aluminum mesh is long-lasting and popular. Fiberglass is simple to install, because it doesn’t crease. Polyester is heavy and more durable. You can also opt for features such as how tightly woven they are, how visible or invisible they appear when looking out the window, etc.
Place the frame with the channel side facing up. Then take the mesh, roll it tightly across the frame and tape it down firmly to each edge of the frame.
Trim the mesh one inch longer and wider than the frame, so it overlaps the channel by a half-inch all around. Next, trim the corners to create 45-angles. This allows for a taut, neat appearance.
Use the screen tool’s grooved wheel to place the spline into the channel at the top of the screen and follow around the perimeter of the frame while holding the screen taut. This keeps the screen securely in place.
To create a clean, polished appearance, cut off any mesh that extends beyond the screen frame.
Take the screen inside and use the latches and clips to slide it back into place. You’re good to go!
Want to learn more about window replacement options for your home?
Our “Homeowner’s Guide to Replacement Windows” is a great place to start.
Read the GuideWe hope you’re loving your replacement windows and screens, and we want to help you ensure they last. After all, at Beissel Window & Siding, we don’t just see you as a number or a job. Your satisfaction matters to us. So, if you have any questions about caring for your windows, let us know. We’re here to serve you!