We usually think about fixing window screens when the weather gets warm and bugs start showing up, but winter brings its own set of problems. Damaged screens can still invite unwanted guests into your building, even when it’s freezing outside. Cracks or tears that go unnoticed during the colder months can become open doors for insects and small animals looking for warmth.
In areas like Colorado Springs, window screen repair plays an important role in keeping buildings sealed off all winter. Gaps in a screen, even a small one, can leave just enough space for something to crawl inside. Staying alert to damage before it turns into a bigger issue helps avoid surprises when things thaw out later. We provide window screen repair and replacement in Colorado Springs, CO, for both residential and commercial properties throughout the Pikes Peak region.
Why Pests Look for Warmth in Winter
When cold sets in, bugs and rodents don’t just disappear. They start looking for warm, dry places to hide. Buildings offer shelter from snow, wind, and freezing nights, which makes them perfect targets. If the screen is torn or no longer fits snug against the frame, it creates an opening that pests can easily exploit.
Some of the most common winter intruders include:
- Spiders that settle near warm pipes or heating vents
- Stink bugs that squeeze through gaps and stay hidden until spring
- Small mice that can fit through openings the width of a pencil
Even screens that look mostly fine can shift just enough in the cold to leave an edge exposed. Frozen weather causes materials to shrink and move, worsening any weakness in a screen. Once a pest gets in, it often finds hiding spots that are hard to reach or even notice until later.
Small Screen Damage, Big Entry Points
We have seen how a tiny rip can turn into a big problem fast. A small hole in a window screen does not always look serious, but cold wind and snow can stretch and pull on the fabric, making that tear grow. Bent frames stop screens from sitting firmly in place, and once that snug fit is lost, it is just a matter of time before something slips through.
The other part that often gets missed is moisture. When snow gathers and then melts around a loose or broken edge, screen wires soften and sag, and the next freeze can shift or break the shape completely. Even one weak spot can turn into an easy tunnel for a bug or rodent to find its way in.
Screen damage does not always happen where we can see it. Corners and lower windows hold even more risk because snow piles there, and pressure builds up.
How Damaged Screens Affect Airflow and Insulation
Winter is not just about keeping pests out; it is also about keeping warm air in. When a window screen does not sit tight against the frame, that gap can mess with the airflow and gradually chill the room, pushing heating systems to work harder than necessary.
Here is what we often notice when insulation is affected:
- Drafts near the window, even when it’s closed
- Fluttering curtains or blinds with no apparent source
- A room that always feels colder than the rest
That shift in air balance is often tied to cracked window seals or damaged screens, allowing pests to follow warm air straight to the breach. Even a small draft, though nearly unnoticeable, can pull in unwelcome guests along with it.
Prevention Through Regular Window Screen Checks
One easy habit to build is checking window screens before the cold months settle in. We recommend giving them a careful look near the end of fall and again in the middle of winter. That way, anything cracked by the first snow or blown out of place by gusty winds can be fixed before it draws more trouble in.
Places that often get missed during these checks include:
- Screens in basements, which pests love for their warmth and quiet
- Hard-to-reach windows on upper floors or in attics
- Screens behind shutters or other coverings that hide wear
Professional window screen repair gives us a way to catch the issues we might easily skim over and keep everything sealed just the way it should be. We repair screens and screen frames for both windows and doors, which is especially helpful when damage affects more than one opening at the same time.
Winter-Ready Screens Keep Pests Out and Comfort In
Broken screens might seem like a small issue, especially when the weather turns cold and we assume bugs will not be a problem. But pests do not always wait for spring, and when they find an opening, they take advantage of it. A screen that is loose, torn, or pulled at the edges can leave just enough room for something to slip through.
Taking a few moments for a quick check around the windows can catch those issues before they worsen. That little fix now could be what saves you from an unexpected problem later, especially once the snow starts to melt and moisture causes further shifting. Keeping screens strong and sealed means fewer worries and warmer, more comfortable spaces all winter long.
FAQs
What pests try to come in during the winter?
Spiders, stink bugs, boxelder bugs, and small mice are all known to sneak inside during cold weather, especially in places like Colorado Springs, where it gets cold fast.
Can a small tear in the screen really make a difference?
Yes, even a small hole can be enough. Bugs and mice do not need a lot of space to crawl in, and damaged corners are often the first places they notice.
Should I repair window screens in the winter or wait until spring?
It is better to fix them as soon as you notice a problem. Waiting can let cold air and moisture in, which makes the damage worse over time.
Do loose screens affect heating and insulation?
Yes, gaps around a screen can let cold air drift inside, leading to drafts and uneven heating. You might not notice it at first, but it can impact your comfort.
How often should I check my window screens for damage?
Do a check before winter arrives and again in the middle of the season. That way you will catch problems early and avoid surprises when the snow melts.
Frayed corners, sagging mesh, or small tears in your window screens can let in pests or drafts, leading to bigger problems down the road. Even during winter, a minor opening can impact comfort and energy efficiency in your home or business. Staying on top of maintenance protects your indoor environment and helps keep unwanted guests out. We offer free estimates on screen repair, so you know what to expect before work begins. We offer quick and reliable window screen repair for homeowners and businesses in Colorado Springs, CO. Contact Complete Window Care today to schedule your inspection.