Installing a garage screen door costs an average of $1,000, but prices range from $200 to $1,400 to include DIY screens up to automatic retracting models.
Garage screen doors cost between $200 and $1,400 on average, though there are many factors that contribute to the final price tag. While you may think of your garage as just a place to park the car and store lawn equipment, it actually might be the perfect location for your next party. If you are looking for a new way to create more entertaining space that also allows for outside airflow, installing a garage door screen might be the solution you need.
The cost factors for adding a screen to your garage door will depend on what type you choose, and if you decide on a DIY approach or a professional installation.
The larger the garage, the larger your screen door will need to be. Expect to pay more for a double garage door screen or any garage size that needs custom fittings.
You can purchase a DIY garage door screen online, as well as through several big box stores. The prices start as low as $50 and can go all the way up to $500.
Stationary garage door screen models are typically made from flexible fiberglass mesh, and range from $200 to $500, depending on the size. They come with adhesive loops for installation and usually have one zipper for easy garage entry.
Retractable garage door screen models can be purchased as a kit or professionally installed depending on your needs. The can either come motorized or with zippers to manually roll up, with motorized versions starting around $1,500.
If you plan to use your garage space frequently, it may be worth considering the convenience of a more permanent screen system. A professionally installed garage door screen usually has to be custom-made and will cost around $1,500 for parts and labor.
Most garage door screens you purchase from a big box retailer are manual, meaning you will have to manually roll the screen out. These usually slide on an existing garage door track system. A motorized solution can roll in and out at the click of a button, similar to how your garage door functions. Expect to pay on the higher end, closer to $1,000 or more for a motorized option.
Garage screens can come either as a solid screen wall or with openings like a door. If your garage doesn’t have another entry point to the outside, you may want to consider purchasing a screen option with an opening for easier access. The more complex the openings are, the more the garage screen will cost.
Screens can come in varying colors and features to provide additional privacy and comfort to your garage. These options include added UV projections and different colors (like black or gray).
| Type of Garage Door Screen | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Magnetic | $50–$75 |
| Stationary | $200–$500 |
| Manual retractable | $100–$400 |
| Motorized retractable | $1,500+ |
Depending on which type you choose, garage door screens can either be added with a DIY hook and loop application, or a more permanent retractable system implemented by a local garage door installer. There is a significant price difference, so you will want to consider several factors before picking a garage door screen.
Magnetic garage door screens are made from lightweight mesh and range from $50 to $75. They are designed to be installed quickly using velcro or nails and offer a hands-free magnetic opening for easy in and out.
Stationary garage door screen models are typically made from flexible fiberglass mesh, and range from $200 to $500, depending on the size. They come with adhesive loops for installation and usually have one zipper for easy garage entry.
Retractable garage door screen cost factors include whether they work with zippers and pulls to manually roll up or if they use a motor. Manual retractable garage door screens cost between $100 and $400. Motorized solutions will cost more and require the expertise of a pro to help install, costing on average $1,500 or more.
If you’re looking for a simple solution, you can purchase and install a garage door screen for as low as $50. These options won’t come with many features and require you to manually roll-up the screen when you’re ready to lock up for the night.
If you’re interested in a permanent and more advanced option, like a motorized screen, purchasing and installing those are best left to the pros. You don’t want to risk tampering with or damaging your garage door, which can lead to safety risks. In these cases, a local garage door company or local screen door installer will be your best route.
The types of garage door screen features available vary widely, from simple pull-back styles to fully customized automatic units. Here are ways you can save on your screen costs:
Go simple: Opt for out-of-the-box solutions that don’t require professional installation.
No openings: Stick with a solid screen without any doors or windows.
Skip the motor: Manual screen doors will be much more affordable than manual ones.
Buy in bulk: If hiring a pro, look to see if you want screens added to other parts of your house, like windows or doors, to save on costs.
If you plan to only use it occasionally, a DIY fabric screen offers a low-cost option that is simple to put up and take down as needed. It also provides a way to test out how you could continue using the extra space in the future. But if you plan to frequently spend time in the space, investing in a customized, professionally installed garage door screen offers the potential for this unlikely space to become a brand new hub for your household.
Garage door screens can expand your living space, turning a garage into a home office, gym, or entertainment space. They provide comfortable ventilation, insect control, and privacy, allowing you to enjoy your space all year round.
You can trim an overhead garage door screen to fit your garage door opening. This is a particularly helpful hack if you have an irregularly sized garage door opening but are still interested in installing a garage door screen to keep pests and debris out.
