How Much Do Window Screens Cost? (Updated in 2024)
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Window screens are an important feature in the design of a home that creates a more welcoming and soothing environment. While window screens are beneficial and functional, it is important to know that they are usually found at a fairly high price.
Make sure to read until the end of this article to find out the true costs of window screens and any additional requirements you may need to consider along the way.
The Importance of Window Screens
While window screens may not seem like an essential part of your home’s design, they can significantly impact the quality of living. Window screens cover the entire outer surface of the window, collecting dirt and debris that would otherwise stick to the window. They serve as a protective barrier between the outdoors and the indoors, keeping away all the crawling and flying guests on the outside.
They provide an extra layer of protection, allowing you to open the window entirely and be shielded from insects entering your home. The mesh on the window screen is usually made of metal, plastic wire, or fiberglass, and they keep away dirt, leaves, birds, insects, and other animals.
How Much Do Window Screens Cost?
Finding the ideal window screen can be challenging because so many options are available on the market. The first thing you must consider is the material you want to use for the mesh. The mesh can be made with various materials, from least protective to most durable and long-lasting. Fiberglass and aluminum are the least durable materials for window screens; therefore, they come at a lower price. The second thing you will want to consider is the type of windows you own, which will give you a clue into what type of screen you need to get.
| Screen material | Price | Screen type | Price |
| Fiberglass | $25–$150 | Standard | $25–$500 |
| Vinyl | $25–$250 | Hinged | $75–$800 |
| Stainless steel | $30–$400 | Retractable | $50–$800 |
| Copper | $75–$800 | Adjustable | $40–$800 |
| Bronze | $75–$800 | Custom | $75–$800 |
| Brass | $100–$800 | Security | $100–$1,000 |
Additional Costs to Anticipate
Installation Costs
If you buy already assembled screens with the mesh attached to the frame, it will take you only a couple of minutes to attach everything to the window. On the other hand, if you ordered a window screen specifically tailored to the size of your window, it may take some time and labor to install everything in place. Typically, labor costs can vary between $15 to $60 for a standard window screen. Labor costs for measuring a custom screen, making it, and fitting it on the window can cost from $50 to $250 per window. Another thing that can affect the cost is the size of your window— the bigger the job, the bigger the labor costs.
Replacement Costs
If you have older window screens and are looking to replace them, perhaps for a more quality mesh, you will need to pay between $30 to $300 per window. The price is higher for a simple replacement because the old window screen must get removed first to fit the new one.
Repair Costs
Repair costs will depend mostly on the number of window screens that need repair and the size of the windows. Small window screens made of fiberglass usually cost around $35 per screen, while larger screens can go up to $125 to replace.
How Often Should I Replace Window Screens?
Window screens must be maintained and if there are any damages to the screen, you may need to fix or replace them immediately. Some occurrences are out of your control, such as damage from wear and tear. It is recommended to replace the windows screens every 10 years, even when their condition may seem fine. When you find some of these symptoms on your window screen, it’s time to replace them with new ones.
- Damaged fabric
- Fading and discoloration of the mesh
- Loose or warped frame
- Difficulty in opening and closing windows
Does Home Insurance Cover Window Screen Repairs?
Home insurance will never cover replacement or repairs of accidental damage you have done or damage from wear and tear. The only scenario when home insurance may cover the costs of replacing the window screen is if it becomes damaged due to bad weather. If a tree branch falls on your home, destroying the window screen, you will most likely get insurance coverage.
How to Properly Maintain a Window Screen
There are several effective ways of cleaning the window screen without damaging it and prolonging its life. To get the dirt and debris out of the mesh while the screen is still up, you can use several methods, such as vacuuming with a soft attachment or using a lint roller, toothbrush, or eraser. You can also clean the window screen with vinegar for a more thorough, deep clean.
Conclusion
Window screens can drastically improve the lives of many homeowners. While they are great to have, you have to maintain them properly and install them with caution to get the best results.
Featured Image Credit: Kwangmoozaa, Shutterstock
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