Window Screen Replacement Cost (2024 Guide) | Expert Reviewed
Typical cost range: $105 – $482 per screen
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As with top window brands, window screen prices vary based on quality and customization. You can purchase preassembled screens for as low as $35, but high-end, custom window screens can cost up to $1,000 per screen. Our window screen replacement cost guide looks at how factors such as screen type and material affect pricing, as well as how to save when replacing your window screens.
*Cost figures in this article are based on reports from The Home Depot and Fixr.
- Window screen replacement costs $105–$482 per screen on average, but the price range varies based on screen type and material.
- Prefabricated window screens are drastically more affordable than custom screens, but the type of window you have may require a custom product.
- The most budget-friendly screen material options are aluminum, fiberglass, and vinyl.
- You can save money on updating your screens by buying them in bulk or repairing them instead of replacing them.
Signs You Need To Replace Your Window Screens
Plan to replace your window screens when these issues arise:
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Window Screens for Your Whole House?
The cost of replacing all of the window screens in your house costs an average of $1,550–$7,750. The cost varies by the number, size, type, and style of window screens that you are replacing.
Number of Windows | Cost Range | Average Cost |
---|---|---|
5–6
|
$1,550–$1,860
|
$1,705
|
8–10
|
$2,480–$3,100
|
$2,790
|
13–15
|
$4,030–$4,650
|
$4,340
|
18–20
|
$5,580–$6,200
|
$5,890
|
23–25
|
$7,130–$7,750
|
$7,440
|
Which Factors Affect How Much Window Screen Replacement Costs?
The two biggest factors that affect what you’ll end up paying for your window screen replacement are the type and material you choose. The type of windows you have will dictate your choice of screen type. You have more choices when picking the material, but you should consider the return on investment of more costly options rather than simply picking the cheapest material.
Screen Replacement Cost by Type
Window screens come in two types: prefabricated (prefab) and custom. Prefab window screens are more common. Manufacturers create them in standardized sizes for convenient installation. Custom screens are specially designed to match your home’s style and performance needs.
- Prefab window screens ($25–$75): Prefab window screens are more affordable than custom ones since they’re factory-made and come in standard sizes.
- Custom window screens ($50–$500): Custom window screens are priced based on square footage. The average cost varies greatly, from around 25 cents per square foot to $25 per square foot. These window screens have more design, size, and customization options than prefab ones. You’ll need to order a custom window screen if you have an unusual window size or specific design, such as shaped or accent windows.
Screen Replacement Cost by Material
You have several window screen material options:
Type of Screen | Cost Range | Average Cost |
---|---|---|
Aluminum screen
|
$50–$300
|
$170
|
Brass screen
|
$150–$900
|
$525
|
Copper screen
|
$90–$850
|
$470
|
Fiberglass screen
|
$35–$200
|
$118
|
Security screen
|
$120–$1,000
|
$560
|
Solar screen
|
$100–$1,000
|
$550
|
Stainless steel
|
$45 – $400
|
$223
|
Vinyl screen
|
$25–$120
|
$73
|
Window screen frames are often made from vinyl or fiberglass. Both materials are on the more affordable end, but they’re prone to wear and tear and need repair or replacement more frequently than pricier alternatives. You may be better off investing in a more high-end material up-front rather than paying for multiple repairs or replacements of cheaper screens over time.
Aluminum is another popular option for its durability and affordability, but metals such as stainless steel, copper, and brass are sturdier and longer-lasting. For example, stainless steel is a heavy-duty material that withstands different temperatures and conditions. We recommend stainless steel screens if you live by the coast since this material combats the salty sea air.
Copper is aesthetically pleasing and more durable than cheaper materials. Brass is the most expensive window screen material due to its ability to withstand extreme wind, rain, and temperature changes. Brass screen frames are also visually striking and give your home an elegant look.
You may want to invest in storm windows if you’re concerned about your windows standing up to harsh storms. You can look into security screens, also called safety screens, for added home protection. These use a high-tensile stainless steel mesh system to prevent forced entry or break-ins while maintaining ventilation. You can easily install security screens on different types of windows.
Lastly, solar screens are dark panels that fit into porch openings and deflect sunlight to reduce glare. Their design allows you to see outside while obstructing the view into your living space, but you’ll end up paying as much as $1,000 for each.
Other Window Screen Cost Factors
The following factors won’t impact the total cost of your window screens as much as type and material, but keep them in mind when budgeting for your project and deciding on which screens to go with.
Learn more about our top provider, Renewal by Andersen in our in-depth review.
Professional vs. DIY Window Screen Replacement
You may be able to replace a window screen yourself if it’s not badly damaged. Learn when you can tackle the job yourself and when it’s best to call a pro.
Professional Window Screen Replacement
Professional window screen installation costs around $15–$50 per screen.
Hiring a window screen replacement professional is the more convenient option. We recommend opting for a professional window installation contractor if you need a custom screen with unique dimensions or are working with material that’s challenging to cut. We highly suggest professional installation if you have windows above the ground floor, as the job could be dangerous.
DIY Window Screen Replacement
You can likely do the job yourself if you’re just replacing a prefab screen and feel comfortable handling home improvement projects. You’ll need the following tools in addition to the replacement screens:
- Clamps
- Flathead screwdriver
- Nail punch
- Scissors
- Screen rolling tool
- Spline
- Utility knife
Follow these steps for a DIY window screen replacement:
- Use a small, flathead screwdriver or nail punch to lift the spline—or the cord-like object that holds the window screen material into the screen frame—out of the channel. Keep the spline, but remove and discard the old screen.
- Next, place the metal frame on a flat work surface and roll out a length of screen material to cover the entire frame. Leave an extra 2 inches of screening material on all sides. Cut the screen to size with the utility knife.
- Lay the new screen material over the frame so it overlaps the metal on all four sides. Then, pull the screening taut and clamp or tape it to the frame’s top and bottom.
- Use your screen rolling tool’s convex wheel to push the screen into the frame’s channel. Once in position, use the same tool’s concave side to insert the spline.
- Finally, trim the excess screening material with your utility knife and cut the screen outside the new spline.
How To Save Money on Window Screens
Is The Cost of Window Screen Replacement Worth It?
Keeping window screens in good condition improves your home’s curb appeal and preserves the function and energy performance of your actual windows. You can save money by doing a DIY project if you feel comfortable replacing window screens or even screen doors yourself. Call a pro if you need a unique, custom window screen or aren’t confident doing the job. We suggest requesting cost estimate quotes from three window companies before deciding. Check out our guide to window replacement costs if you’re interested in full window replacement.
FAQ About Window Screen Replacement Cost
What is the standard window screen size?
The standard window screen sizes for prefab screens are, in inches, 18×14, 18×18, and 20×20. Contact a window company for a custom window screen if you measure your windows or screens and find they don’t fit these sizes.
What is the best material for window screens?
Fiberglass and vinyl window screens are most commonly used today. Both are affordable, durable, and long-lasting.
Is it difficult to replace a window screen?
Replacing a window screen isn’t difficult if you have some home improvement experience and the right tools. However, if you’re replacing screens on the second story or higher, the job can be dangerous.
Can you fix a ripped window screen?
Yes, there are a few different ways to repair a fixed window screen. One option is replacing the ripped screen and another is purchasing a heat repair patch to cover the rip.
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