What Do Window Screens Cost To Replace? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $147 - $513
The average price to replace window screens is $316
, but your costs may vary from $147
to $513
depending on the size and type of screen.
The average window screen cost is $316
for most homeowners. You can expect to pay anywhere from $147
for basic materials for a small window screen or up to $1,165
for a large custom window screen to fit your custom window.
Window screens help with shade, airflow, and security. But if your window screen gets tattered or torn, it can quickly become an eyesore that lets in way more than you bargained for (we’re looking at you, pesky yard mosquitoes). We’re going to explore all the cost factors of window screen replacement so you know exactly what to budget for.
Window Screen Cost Breakdown
The price you pay for window screen replacements can vary widely depending on a few factors, such as the material you choose, the type of window screen, the window size, the window's accessibility, and whether the window screen frame needs to be replaced.
Materials
Materials have the biggest impact on the final cost of window screens. But how much are screens for windows by material, and which is best for you? Here’s the breakdown:
Window Screen Material | Average Cost Installed, Per Window | Benefit of Material |
---|---|---|
Fiberglass | $60–$260 | Most affordable option |
Aluminum | $80–$390 | Effective at reducing visibility into the home |
Copper | $120–$900 | Vintage look for older homes |
Stainless Steel | $80–$460 | Exceptional durability |
Brass | $120–$980 | Corrosion-resistant |
Window Screen Type
There are also a couple of different types of window screens. Here’s a look at them and their costs.
Window Screen Type | Average Cost Installed, Per Window | Window Screen Benefit |
---|---|---|
Solar | $60–$850 | Helps home energy efficiency |
Security | $100–$1,000 | Adds additional privacy |
Moveable/sliding | $60–$260 | Panels are easily removed when needed |
Pet-proof | $150–$560 | Is resistant to pet scratches |
Hurricane | $50–$1,050 | Can handle winds up to 276 MPH |
Custom | $200–$600 | Fits non-standard windows |
Solar
Solar window screens cost between $60 and $850 per window to install. These screens are a cost-effective way to upgrade energy efficiency since they absorb up to 90% of UV rays. A naturally cooler house means you won’t run your AC as much during hot summer days. And don’t worry—you won’t lose out on any natural light or ventilation with these panels.
Security
If you want additional privacy and home protection, you might want to consider adding a security window screen. Security panels range from $100 to $1,000 per window, and for a good reason—these screens are cut and bash-proof while still remaining aesthetically pleasing.
Movable/sliding
The cost to replace a movable window screen is between $60 and $260 per screen. However, depending on the size and operation of your window screen, replacing a window screen that slides along a track costs $50 to $250 per screen for average sizes.
Pet-proof
If a Fido, Milo, or Luna rules your home, you might think about investing in pet-proof window screens. These are often made of a vinyl-coated polyester material, which helps to stop rips and tears from claws and paws. For this specialty type of window screen, you can expect to pay between $150 and $560 per window.
Hurricane
If you live in a state where hurricane season runs rampant (looking at you, Florida and Texas), having hurricane window screens is a must-have. These panels mimic trampoline material—they are very strong and durable, keeping wind, rain, and debris from entering your home. Budget between $50 to $1,050 per window for this type of window screen.
Custom
A custom window screen can be a movable, standard, or some other design that’ll work best for your window when common ones don’t quite fit the bill. For custom windows, people typically pay $0.25 to $30 per square foot for material, $30 to $100 for the frame, and $25 to $50 in labor fees.
Window Screen Size
The amount of screen material needed to fit your window is higher the bigger the window is. That’s why the size of the windows in question impacts the overall cost of window screens. Here are some of the most common window screen sizes and their respective average costs when it comes to standard and custom installs.
Window Size | Standard Install | Custom Install |
---|---|---|
2 ft x 3 ft | $30–$150 | $70–$400 |
3 ft x 6 ft | $80–$250 | $120–$600 |
6 ft x 6 ft | $180–$450 | $200–$900 |
Labor
Labor fees can impact the cost of window screen replacement. Skilled window contractors must measure, cut, and install screens, requiring time and expertise, which adds roughly $15 to $20 per screen or $25 to $50 per custom screen to the overall expenses.
Location
Labor costs for window screen replacement are also influenced by the window's location and accessibility. Working at greater heights requires additional equipment and poses increased risk and time, making repairs on higher floors or hard-to-reach windows more expensive.
Brand
Window screens are available from a range of brands, each offering different price points. Established names like Pella and Milgard provide premium options with features like aluminum mesh and custom colors. These can cost between $55 and $220 per screen. On the other hand, more affordable brands like Andersen offer budget-friendly alternatives with fiberglass mesh and can cost as little as $30 to $50 per screen. To make an informed choice, it's essential to research and assess the brand that aligns with your needs and budget before making a purchase.
Brand | Cost |
---|---|
Andersen | $30–$50 |
Marvin | $50–$250 |
Pella | $55–$200 |
Milgard | $60–$220 |
Window Screen Ongoing Expenses
By now, you’re pretty familiar with how much different window screens cost. But what about future expenses? Below you can find potential ongoing cost considerations for this project that you might incur as the years go by.
Maintenance
Did you know that you should clean your window screens regularly? For most homeowners, cleaning your window screens should be done at least once a season. In climates that tend to get nasty windspeeds that kick up dirt and debris, aim for cleaning them once a month.
Luckily, you won’t be breaking the bank trying to keep your new window screens clean—you can expect to pay about $5 to $15 on cleaning supplies (and you might already have most of the tools you need).
Repairs
As life happens, there are times when you might need to repair your new window screen. You can consider rescreening when only the screen mesh is damaged, not the frame. Rescreening costs depend on the size of the window and how many screens are being repaired at one time, but it typically costs between $65 and $150. Your local window screen repair pro can give you an exact cost estimate for any repairs your screens might need.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
If you’re not sure you can install your window screen properly or you need a custom screen, it’s best to leave this project to your local window screen replacement pro. You’ll probably find that the additional $20 to $50 in labor fees per screen is worth it for the peace of mind.
While it’s not the most complicated DIY project out there, replacing a window screen requires a bit of skill and some tools and materials that may not be in everyone’s toolbox. For example, you’ll need items like a spline, a screen rolling tool, a nail punch, and clamps, to name a few.
DIY | Hiring a Pro |
---|---|
Lower budget | Higher budget |
Builds DIY skills | Saves time |
Risks poor fit | Ensures proper fit |
How to Save Money on Window Screen Costs
There may be some ways that you can save some cash when it comes to window screen replacements. Here are some things you can do to cut the price down:
Choose a more affordable material: Vinyl and fiberglass are among the most budget-friendly window screen materials.
Rescreen instead of replacing: When you replace a window screen, you replace both the screen material and the frame. Rescreening only replaces the screen material and keeps the original frame, saving you money.
Replace multiple window screens at once: Getting several windows done at once often results in a lower price per window.
How Angi Gets Its Cost Data
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We’ve surveyed thousands of real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to costquotes@angi.com. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Window screens come in various sizes, but the most common window screen sizes are:
18” x 14”
18” x 18”
20” x 20”
These measurements suit most standard windows found in homes, but measuring your windows precisely to ensure a proper screen fit is essential. If you need one that’s outside of these standard ranges, you’ll likely need to custom order it.
The cost to repair a window screen is $20 to $30 per window, with the actual price depending on the problem and the size of the screen. This means an average savings of $80 to $450 per screen. While it’s possible to repair small holes, when you consistently work on the same spot over time or need to repair large holes, it is better to replace the window screen entirely.
Many types of window screens, like solar screens, act as a protective barrier, reducing the amount of harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation that enters your home. These screens are made with materials that have UV-blocking properties, helping to shield your interior furnishings and occupants from potential sun damage. However, not all screens offer the same level of UV protection.
Windows screens generally last between 10 and 12 years before they need to be replaced. Signs that window screens need to be replaced include:
Old age
Faded material
Ripped or torn screen
Melted spots
Brittle material
Loss of structural integrity
Keep in mind that a small hole or two can be patched, but a large hole or an entire tear will compromise the screen itself—after all, no one wants bugs to enter their home when they are trying to enjoy a nice breeze.