Your screens keep bugs out and let air in, but they wear down over time. Tears, sagging, or fading can leave you wondering if a quick fix will work or if a full rescreen makes more sense.
The right choice depends on your screen's condition, your budget, and how long you want the results to last.
Screen repair fixes small problems. If you have a tiny hole or tear, a repair patches that one spot.
Rescreening is different. This means you replace the entire screen material, not just one section.
Here's how to think about it:
Your choice depends on a few things:
If you only have one small tear, repair often makes sense. If your screen is old or has damage in several spots, rescreening gives you better results.
Screen repair works best when the damage is small and stays in one spot.
Pets, sticks, or small accidents often cause tiny holes or short tears in a screen. You can usually fix these with a patch kit or a simple spot repair. This is a low-cost fix, especially if your screen is still fairly new.
Check the frame and the rest of the screen material before you decide to replace anything.
Then a small repair can add more years to your screen without paying for a full replacement.
Rescreening makes sense when your screens show damage in more than one spot or keep breaking down over time.
Small patches can put extra strain on the mesh around them. This often leads to new tears nearby.
When damage covers a large area or several spots, a full rescreen gives you better results than patchwork fixes. You get a screen that holds up over time.
Screens wear down as they get older. You may notice:
If your screens show these signs, rescreening saves you more money than fixing the same problems again and again.
Do you find yourself fixing the same screens over and over? Rescreening can help by:
The type of mesh on your screen plays a big role in deciding whether to patch it or replace it fully. Some materials handle repairs well. Others don't.
Fiberglass is a common choice because it bends easily and costs less than other options. If you have a small tear or hole, you can usually fix it without much trouble. This makes fiberglass a good option when you're dealing with minor damage.
These screens are built to handle specific jobs, like standing up to pets or blocking sunlight. Because of this, you should have a professional look at any damage before deciding what to do. Full rescreening usually gives you the most reliable results with these materials.
Repairs fix problems, but patches can still stand out. If looks matter to you, rescreening gives a clean, even finish across your whole screen.
Pick rescreening when:
New screens can also boost how your home looks from the outside.
If you have small holes or tears, you can likely fix them on your own. This option costs less upfront since you only pay for basic materials.
For bigger jobs, hiring a professional gives you better results. They know how to get the tension and fit right, which helps your screen last longer.
You should hire a professional if you have large areas to cover. This includes lanai screens, pool enclosures, and other big openings. These jobs need more skill and the right tools to get done well.
Your budget plays a big role in deciding between repair and rescreening.
If you keep fixing the same screens again and again, rescreening is usually your better financial choice.
Your future plans for your home should guide your choice between the two options.
If you plan to sell soon: New screens make your home look better. This can help attract buyers and boost your home's appeal during showings.
If you plan to stay long-term: You may only need repairs, as long as the rest of your screens are still in good condition. This saves money now, especially if damage is limited to a small area.
Think about how long you'll stay in the home before you decide. Your timeline can help you choose the option that fits your budget and goals.
Small holes or tears can usually be patched. If your screen is old or has a lot of damage, you should replace the whole mesh instead.
Your screens should last between 10 and 15 years. The exact lifespan depends on the material and how much sun or weather it gets.
You can fix small rips with a patch. If you have large tears or several tears in one screen, you need to replace the whole mesh.
Yes. Fresh screens make your home look better and work better. This can also give buyers more confidence when they look at your property.
Watch for mesh that is loose, faded, or brittle. If you keep fixing the same screen, it is time to replace it.
Lafferty Aluminum & Screening handles both small repairs and full rescreening jobs. Your screens get expert care whether you need a quick fix or a complete replacement.
Services cover:
Contact the team for an inspection. You will get a clear answer on whether a repair or full rescreening makes more sense for your home.
Small tears and rips are usually easy fixes. If you have one or two holes smaller than a few inches, you can likely patch or repair them without replacing the whole screen.
But if your screen has many holes, sagging mesh, or a frame that's bent out of shape, replacement is often the better choice. Old screens also become brittle over time, so they tear more easily even after a repair.
Here's a quick way to decide:
The right mesh depends on where you're using it and what you need it to do.
Mesh TypeBest ForKey BenefitStandard fiberglassWindows and doorsAffordable, easy to work withAluminumHigh-traffic doorsStrong and long-lastingPet-resistant meshHomes with dogs or catsResists scratches and clawsSolar or shade meshPatios and sunroomsBlocks heat and glareNo-see-um meshAreas with gnats or small bugsTighter weave keeps out tiny insects
Think about your main concern first, whether that's cost, durability, or keeping out pests, then match it to the mesh built for that job.
Most single window or door screens can be replaced in under an hour once a technician arrives. The mesh gets removed, the frame is measured, and new material is stretched and secured in place.
Larger jobs, like replacing screens on an entire patio or pool enclosure, take longer. Depending on the size of the space, this can range from a few hours to a full day.
In many cases, yes. Small bends and minor dents in aluminum frames can often be straightened out during a repair visit.
However, frames that are cracked, badly warped, or corroded usually need to be replaced. A damaged frame won't hold new mesh properly, even if the mesh itself is brand new.
Prices vary based on your location, the size of the screen, and the type of mesh you choose. For a standard window or door screen, you can generally expect to pay between $65 and $150 for full-service replacement.
Larger screens or upgraded mesh types, like solar screening or pet-resistant material, may cost more. Getting a free estimate from a local screen company is the best way to get an accurate price for your specific job.
Yes. In most cases, your existing frame can be reused, and the current mesh simply gets swapped out for a stronger or tighter-woven material.
This works well for pet-resistant and no-see-um mesh, since both are designed to fit standard frame sizes. As long as your frame is in good shape, upgrading the mesh is usually a simple, affordable update.
We're excited to learn more about your needs and provide you with a personalized quote. Please fill out the form, and our team will get back to you with a detailed estimate to kickstart your project.
