Best window and door contractors near Salem, VA

It is generally recommended to remove window screens for the winter, especially in climates with heavy snow, freezing rain, or frigid temperatures. Removing them helps prevent damage to the screen mesh and frames that can be caused by ice and moisture buildup between the screen and the window. Taking out the screens also allows more natural light and warmth into your home during shorter winter days and makes it easier to clean your windows thoroughly. In warmer climates where harsh weather is not a concern, the decision is more about personal preference; some homeowners prefer the clearer view, while others leave them in for convenience.

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.

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 screen on many screen doors is held in place by screen spline. Screen spline is typically a thin vinyl tubing that fits into the groove of the door’s frame and holds the screen in place. To install the spline on a screen door, you’ll need a spline roller—a tool that presses the spline and screen into the door’s narrow groove. Note that old spline can crack and break, so replacing your screens is a good time to replace the spline, too.