People ask us all the time: "Does my screen need to be replaced, or just repaired?" Here's what to look for.
1. The frame is bent and won't sit square
Once a frame is out of square, the screen won't sit flat in the window. If it bends back easily, you can fix it. If not - replace.
2. The corners have separated
Window screen frames are held together by plastic or aluminum corner clips. When more than one corner has gone, the whole frame is probably brittle.
3. The aluminum is pitted or corroded
Properties near the coast see frame corrosion that pits the aluminum. Once pitting is visible, the frame's structural integrity is compromised.
4. The mesh has multiple holes or tears
Once you've got multiple visible holes, the mesh has reached the end of its UV-degraded service life - even the un-torn parts are brittle.
5. The mesh sags or has lost tension
Once you can poke it and it stays poked in, the spline groove has worn out and the mesh can't be re-tensioned.
6. Pets have shredded it more than once
Upgrade to Phifer PetScreen and you stop having the conversation.
7. You're embarrassed when guests come over
Screen repair is usually one of the lowest-cost-per-impact home improvements - a few hundred dollars to make the whole house look maintained.
What Doesn't Need Replacing
- Dirty screens. Brush them down with a soft brush and water.
- Sun-faded fiberglass. Color fading doesn't affect function.
- Slightly bent frames you can pop back.
Get a Real Opinion
Send photos to (302) 365-5562. We charge for the repair, not for the opinion.