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The screen material you choose depends on your needs. Here are some differences to consider:

• Fiberglass is the least expensive but needs replacing more often.

• Aluminum suits almost any job and doesn’t stretch as easily as fiberglass. 

• Pet-resistant screens are more expensive than fiberglass or aluminum, but they’re also wind and weather-resistant. 

• Metal screens, like stainless steel, are the most expensive material for rescreening your porch or sunroom. However, they last for years and are golf ball-resistant.  

It’s possible to make minor screen repairs yourself using a waterproof adhesive for small tears or a screen patch kit for larger tears and holes. However, it’s usually a better option to call in a professional window technician. It’s very easy to use too much waterproof glue, resulting in a messy appearance that might demand a full replacement anyway. A screen repair technician will not only be able to carry out clean repairs and patches that aren’t obvious, but they can also let you know if replacing your screen is a more cost-effective option.

Window screen repair costs an average of $310, with a typical range of $100 to $480. The final price depends on several factors, including the window size, accessibility, screen type, whether the frame needs replacement, and especially the screen material.

The cost of window screen materials varies widely based on durability and features:

• Fiberglass: $35–$200

• Aluminum: $50–$300

• Copper: $90–$850

• Stainless Steel: $45–$400

• Brass: $100–$900

• Solar: $55–$850

• Security: $100–$1,000

• Vinyl: $25–$120

Costs also differ by screen type. For instance, a prefabricated screen might cost only $40, moveable screens typically run $25 to $75, and retractable screens range from $300 to $900. To save money, you can choose more affordable materials like vinyl or fiberglass, opt to rescreen instead of replacing the entire frame, and have multiple screens repaired at once to reduce labor costs.

The steps to replace a retractable screen can vary, but these are the general steps: First, remove the screen cover to expose the screen mechanism and remove the clip that holds the screen in place. Next, depress the end of the screen mechanism so it releases from the door frame. Take your new screen and fit one end into the frame. You may need to rotate the mechanism to engage the spring before inserting the other end into the frame. Finally, pull the screen down the length of the door’s opening and lock it in place with the clip.