Most torn, sagging or loose window screens can be repaired by rescreening the existing frame with new mesh, which is usually simpler than replacing the whole screen. Replacement makes more sense when the frame itself is badly bent, cracked or missing parts. A quick look at the frame tells you which way to go.
Here is how to decide, and what professional repair involves.
When is repairing a screen the right choice?
Repair, also called rescreening, works well when:
- The mesh is torn or has holes.
- The mesh is sagging or loose but the frame is solid.
- The spline, the rubber cord holding the mesh, has dried out or popped loose.
- The frame is only slightly bent and can be straightened.
In these cases, the frame is still good, so new mesh brings the screen back to working order.
When does replacement make more sense?
Consider a new screen when:
- The frame is badly bent, kinked or cracked.
- Corners are broken and the frame will not hold its shape.
- The screen is missing entirely.
- The frame no longer fits the window properly.
Even then, it is worth having someone look first. Many frames that look damaged can still be repaired.
Why repair instead of buying new?
Rescreening keeps the frame that already fits your window. You avoid measuring, ordering, waiting and hoping the new screen fits. It also keeps your screens matching across the house.
Why do window screens get damaged?
Common causes include:
- Wind that pushes screens out of their frames.
- Pets pushing or scratching at the mesh.
- Kids, balls and yard work.
- Hail and storms, common in Colorado and across the Midwest.
- Sun exposure that weakens mesh and spline over time.
- Rough removal during cleaning or painting.
How does professional screen repair work?
Rise window screen repair follows four steps:
- Assess. We inspect each damaged screen and measure for the right fit and mesh.
- Remove. Damaged screens are removed carefully and prepped for rescreening.
- Repair. We rescreen or repair the frame with quality, long-lasting materials.
- Reinstall. Each repaired screen is fitted back into place and checked for a clean, secure fit.
We handle the measuring, materials and installation, so there are no hardware-store trips or guesswork on your end.
Can you repair screens yourself?
Rescreening is doable for a handy homeowner with a spline roller, the right mesh and spline size, and patience. Getting the mesh tight and even without wrinkles is the hard part, and bent frames are tricky to straighten without the right tools. For one screen it may be worth a try. For several screens, a professional saves time.
What are the benefits of repaired screens?
- Bugs stay out, so you can open windows with confidence.
- Curb appeal improves, since crisp screens make the home look cared for.
- Airflow is clean, with no gaps letting in debris.
How can you make screens last longer?
- Remove screens gently, pressing the tabs or springs instead of prying the frame.
- Store spare or seasonal screens flat so frames do not bend.
- Clean screens regularly, since built-up dirt and pollen wear on mesh.
- Repair small tears early, before wind turns them into large ones.
Can you repair just one screen?
Yes. Whether it is one torn screen or every screen in the house, we handle it.
Do I need to remove the screens myself?
No. We handle removal, repair and reinstallation.
Can you match my existing screens?
In most cases, yes. We work to match your existing frames and mesh.
Can I add screen cleaning too?
Yes. Rise offers screen cleaning, and many homeowners book it with repair or a window cleaning.
Request a free quote
Tell us how many screens need work on our free quote form. We usually reply within one business day.
Learn more about our screen repair.