Window Screen Repair vs Replacement Cost (Colorado 2026)
What a damaged window screen costs to fix depends on what's actually broken. The decision tree is simple: torn mesh = re-screen. Bent frame = new frame. Both = full replacement. Each step up means more materials and labor, so the price follows the damage.
This guide covers every screen-damage scenario, which fix each one calls for in Colorado, and when to upgrade to pet-grade or solar-grade mesh during the repair. For your exact price, our instant quote returns a real, bookable number for your home in 30 seconds.
By Jamison Weise, Owner, Sonlight Window Cleaning. Updated August 2026.
Quick answer
Torn mesh with an intact frame gets a re-screen, the cheapest fix. A bent or broken frame needs new frame fabrication, which costs more. Pet-grade and solar-grade mesh are available upgrades. Most repairs are done on-site in 30 minutes, and our instant quote gives you an exact price in 30 seconds.
Cost by Damage Type
The price of a screen fix tracks the damage. A single tear in the mesh is a quick re-screen. Stretched or sagging mesh adds new spline. Pet damage is best fixed with pet-grade mesh so it doesn't happen again. A slightly bent frame can often be straightened on-site, while a severely bent frame or failed corner means fabricating a new frame, the most involved repair. When both mesh and frame are destroyed, a full new screen is usually the sensible call. Number of screens matters too: batching several in one visit lowers the per-screen price.
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When to Repair vs Replace
Decision tree:
Mesh torn, frame intact → RE-SCREEN
90% of screen damage. The cheapest fix, and 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"): often straightened on-site for a small charge. Severe (corner failed, channel crushed): new frame fabrication, quoted per frame.
Both damaged → FULL REPLACEMENT
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 |
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Get My Free Quote →Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to repair a window screen?
- It depends on the damage type, the mesh you choose (standard fiberglass, pet-grade, or solar), and how many screens we're fixing in one visit. Re-screening torn mesh is the least expensive fix, new frame fabrication for severely bent screens costs more, and batching several screens in one trip brings the per-screen price down. Enter your address in our instant quote tool for an exact, bookable price in about 30 seconds. 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. It carries a modest 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. It costs a bit more than standard mesh and usually pays for itself within a few 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 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.