Window screens have come a long way since they were first invented in the 1880s. They need to be replaced occasionally to keep your home secure and comfortable.
If you’re looking for tips on window screen replacement, you’ve come to the right place. We know it can be a challenge to keep your home safe from pests like mosquitoes and flies. One challenge that homeowners face is finding the right window screen replacement company to work with.
Below, we give a brief guide on why you might need to replace your window screens and how to find a reputable company in your area.
Benefits of Window Screens
Your home may or may not have screens in them; either way, you need to know the benefits of having them. While you may not want to invest the money right now, you’ll soon realize that it’s worth it.
Deflects Dirt
A window screen is going to help keep dirt from getting on your window. You won’t have to constantly clean the outside of your windows because the screen acts as a barrier.
Less mud will be splashed on your windows as well. This will ultimately save you time and money since you won’t have to clean your windows as often.
Keeps Bugs and Pests Out
During a cool spring day, you may want to open your windows to get some fresh air in, but if you don’t have screens on your windows, bugs, and pests will have an opening into your home. You won’t want to risk rodents and bugs coming into your house, so you’ll likely keep them shut. Even if you don’t open your windows often, it’s nice to have the option.
Acts As An Insulator
A window screen can act as an insulator in the cold winter months and hot summer months. While they won’t completely regulate the temperature of your home, they can help. They won’t do much good if they are torn or broken, so keep that in mind too.
Increases Curb Appeal
If you’re selling your property, having clean screens will increase curb appeal. You want to make a great first impression and if your windows are dirty or the screen has rips in them, people may be turned off to your property. You want your property to be in the best shape possible when you put it on the market and having new screens will help.
Protects Windows
Windows are significantly more expensive than window screens. It’s in your best interest to invest in screens as they will protect your glass from outside particles. For example, bad storms may throw debris and scratch your glass.
Hail is another issue that screens can help protect against. The sun can damage the interior of your home and a screen can help prevent your furniture and flooring from fading.
Replacement Time
There are several signs that will tell you when it’s time for a window screen replacement. It’s important that you inspect your screens frequently for damage.
The sign that you’ll notice is visible damage; this includes rips and tears in the screen. You may also notice a bend or dent in the framing.
If you notice that your screen is stuck, this may be due to the sun warping it. Your window screens are exposed to a lot of elements including rain, snow, and the sun’s harmful UV rays. You don’t want to have to struggle every time you want to open your window.
One of the least obvious signs is if your screen is shiny. Over time the metal framing will change and become more glossy. If this happens, it’s time to replace your window screen.
You may not notice a hole in your screen right away, but you’ll notice if there’s an influx of bugs in your home. Be sure to check your screen first if you start to see more flies and other insects. They might not be in your home but between the screen and the glass, so be on the lookout for that too.
DIY vs Hiring A Professional
While you can replace your window screens yourself, hiring a professional is a better option. You will save yourself a lot of time and money in the long run.
You would have to spend a lot of time researching and watching tutorials on how to do it. It will take you some time to complete all your windows and you may still be unsure if they will hold up in harsh weather conditions.
A professional will be able to do the project much quicker and will do it correctly the first time. If you work with a reputable company, if for some reason the screen isn’t installed correctly, they will fix it.
Process Time
Typically a professional can replace a window screen in about 30 minutes. You can count the number of windows you have and base the time on that number. A DIY project will likely take you two hours per window.
Cost
The price of replacing a window screen is going to vary. It all depends on how many windows you have and which type of screens you purchase.
The location of your windows also matters. Windows that are on the second and third stories will cost more than those on the first level.
Replacement Vs Repair
Now you may be wondering if your damaged screen needs to be completely replaced or if it can be repaired. If the framing isn’t broken, you may be able to repair the screen without replacing the entire thing.
If the hole or tear is small, a repair may be in your best interest; however, the majority of the time you’ll need to replace it. Investing in a replacement will give you peace of mind when summer rolls around and you won’t have to worry about your repair holding up against flies and other critters.
Maintenance and Preventative Measures
After you invest in new window screens, you’re going to want them to last as long as possible. That means you’ll need to do regular maintenance to keep them nice.
They don’t require a lot, but you should take the time to wipe the dirt and grime off them. Be sure you are checking them for tears as you’re cleaning them. Check the corners to ensure they aren’t damaged or popping out.
The best time to clean is before every new season. You’ll want to ensure they are in the best shape possible for harsh weather.
Finding A Company
Finding the right company is key. You want to work with someone who is experienced and reputable. There are many companies out there, so take your time finding the best one.
Asking your friends and family for recommendations is a good start. You should also read some online reviews. If others have a great experience, it’s likely that you will too.
Communication is an important factor that you should consider when you’re picking a company to work with. If you request a quote, you shouldn’t have to wait a week to hear back from them. You should also notice if they try to pressure you. It’s not a good sign if they do and you should move on to the next one.
Be sure to ask a lot of questions and consider how they answer them. They should be knowledgeable about the project and advise you on all the options available.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’ve never had your window screen replaced, there are a few questions you’re going to want to ask. Below are a few that will help you get a better understanding of the process.
Are There Order Requirements
There are some companies that require you to order a certain number of screens. This information is crucial to know at the beginning.
Is There A Warranty
You will want to ask about warranties, too. Some screens may come with a three to five-year warranty, while some may have a 15-year warranty. It’s all dependent on the quality of the screen.
Window Screen Replacement
Homeownership comes with a lot of stress at times. There’s always something that needs to be cleaned or replaced or fixed. Your window screen is one of those tasks.
Don’t neglect your windows! If you think you may need a window screen replacement contact us here. We can help you get set up with the best screens on the market so you feel secure in your home.