Window Screen Repair vs Replacement Cost (Colorado 2026)
A torn window screen costs $25-$120 depending on the damage. The decision tree is simple: torn mesh = re-screen ($25-$45). Bent frame = new frame ($60-$120). Both = full replacement.
This guide covers every screen-damage scenario, what each costs to fix in Colorado, and when to upgrade to pet-grade or solar-grade mesh during the repair.
By Jamison Weise, Owner — Sonlight Window Cleaning. Updated May 2026.
Quick answer
Re-screen mesh: $25-$45/window. New frame: $60-$120/window. Pet-grade: +30%. Solar-grade: +40%. Most repairs done on-site in 30 minutes.
Cost by Damage Type
| Damage | Fix | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Single tear in mesh | Re-screen mesh | $25-$35 |
| Stretched / sagging mesh | Re-screen + new spline | $30-$40 |
| Hole from pet claws | Re-screen with pet-grade mesh | $35-$50 |
| Frame bent < 1/2" | Straighten on-site | $15-$25 |
| Frame severely bent / corner failed | New frame fabrication | $60-$120 |
| Both mesh and frame destroyed | Full new screen | $80-$160 |
| Pull tab broken | Replace handle/tab | $5-$10 |
| Solar-screen upgrade (any size) | Solar-grade mesh re-screen | $40-$60 |
When to Repair vs Replace
Decision tree:
Mesh torn, frame intact → RE-SCREEN
90% of screen damage. Cheap, fast (15-30 min on-site). Upgrade mesh while we're at it (pet or solar).
Mesh intact, frame bent → STRAIGHTEN OR REPLACE FRAME
Small bend (under 1/2"): straighten on-site for $15-$25. Severe (corner failed, channel crushed): new frame for $60-$120.
Both damaged → FULL REPLACEMENT
$80-$160. Combined repair labor approaches new-screen cost; just replace.
No damage but old fiberglass → CONSIDER UPGRADE
10-15 year old fiberglass mesh is brittle even if intact. If you're re-screening neighbors anyway, batch a preventive re-mesh.
Mesh Type Comparison
| Mesh type | Lifespan | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Standard fiberglass | 5-10 years | Most homes, no pets |
| Pet-grade vinyl polyester | 15-25 years | Active dogs, indoor cats |
| Solar (UV-blocking) | 15-20 years | West-facing windows, hot summers |
| No-see-um (fine mesh) | 5-10 years | Mountain homes with biting flies |
Get a Screen Repair Quote
Bundle with window cleaning for a small discount + same-trip service.
Get My Free Quote →Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to repair a window screen?
- Most repairs run $25-$45 per window for fiberglass re-screening. Pet-grade mesh adds about 30% ($35-$50). Solar-grade is $40-$60. New aluminum frame fabrication for severely bent screens runs $60-$120 per frame. Most repairs are done on-site in 15-30 minutes.
- When should I replace instead of repair?
- Replace the FRAME (not just the mesh) when: the corner joints have failed, the channel is crushed/distorted, the spline groove is torn, or the frame is bent more than 1/2" from straight. Replace the WHOLE screen when both the frame is damaged AND the mesh is torn — at that point repair labor approaches new-frame cost.
- Can pet-grade mesh fix my puppy's claw damage?
- It significantly slows future damage. Pet-grade vinyl-coated polyester is 5-10x more resistant to claws than standard fiberglass. About 30% upcharge per window but lasts much longer in pet households.
- Do I need solar screens in Colorado?
- If you have west-facing windows that get afternoon sun in summer, solar-grade mesh (blocks 70-90% of UV) reduces summer cooling cost noticeably and protects interior fabrics from fade. Cost is $40-$60 per window — usually pays back in 2-3 summers via lower AC bills.
- Why do screens get damaged in Colorado?
- Three main causes: (1) Wind. Colorado wind events shred fiberglass mesh fast — particularly on west-facing windows. (2) Hail. Hail can punch holes in mesh and dent frames; post-storm screen inspection is common. (3) Pet claws. Standard mesh fails fast against active dogs and cats.
- Can you do screen repair without window cleaning?
- Yes, screen repair is a standalone service. But most customers bundle it with the next window cleaning visit — saves a trip and qualifies for a small bundle discount.
- How long does screen replacement take?
- On-site re-screening: 15-30 minutes per window. New frame fabrication (severe damage): we measure during the visit and ship the frame to our shop, then return in 5-7 business days for installation.