If your door has interchangeable inserts, you’ll likely want to swap the glass out for a screen during the summer months. The process to do so will vary by door, but you’ll follow these general steps: First, use a flathead screwdriver to pop out the retainer strips—the plastic strips running down both long (and sometimes all four) sides of the door. Then gently pull them out by hand. Carefully remove the glass insert from the door and replace it with the screen. Finally, push the plastic retainer strips back into place, working from top to bottom.

Yes, you can fix windows without replacing them. However, this will depend on the severity of the issue and what your needs are. Minor water damage, broken glass, damaged casing, and worn caulking are usually easy repairs. But if there is excessive damage, the windows are constantly foggy, or the windows are very old, it’s best to consider replacing them. Replacement windows cost between $575 and $1,475 per window, or an average of $850 per window. 

Among the various entry points into your residence, it's crucial to recognize that your basement windows are arguably the most susceptible. Basements usually have windows facing the side and back yards, often concealed from driveway floodlights, porch lighting, and doorbell cameras. Their vulnerability underscores the importance of reinforcing basement window security to safeguard your home from break-ins.

Many kinds of window screens, such as solar screens, are designed to reduce the amount of harmful ultraviolet rays that pass through them and enter your home. The materials typically have UV-blocking properties. However, they may not completely eliminate all UV rays from passing through your home. Different window screens are designed for different purposes, and not all are designed to block or reduce UV rays. Do your research to make sure you’re getting the type of window screen to suit your needs.