The typical cost of replacing a screen door in the United States ranges from about $150 to $900, depending on door size, frame material, screen type, and labor. Key cost drivers include the door’s dimensions, screen material (fiberglass, aluminum, or pet-rated mesh), grille presence, and whether installation requires frame adjustments or weatherproofing.
Note: The following table summarizes typical price ranges and what influences each value, helping buyers estimate a project budget quickly.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Door Replacement (material & screen) | $150 | $350 | $900 | Basic fiberglass screen door vs. heavy-duty pet mesh |
| Labor (installation) | $60 | $180 | $350 | Hourly rates vary by region; includes frame fit |
| Frame & Hardware | $0 | $100 | $300 | New frame, hinges, latch, trim |
| Permits & Revisions | $0 | $0 | $50 | Usually not required for standard doors |
| Delivery/Removal & Debris | $0 | $20 | $60 | Depends on disposal needs |
Overview Of Costs
Cost estimates combine materials, labor, and small incidentals. For a standard 32-inch by 80-inch screen door, buyers typically see a mid-range total around $250-$500 when opting for mid-grade fiberglass or aluminum screen with basic hardware. Per-square-foot thinking is less common, but a useful proxy exists: door material commonly runs $10-$40 per square foot, plus $60-$180 for labor, depending on local rates. Assumptions: standard door size, indoor/outdoor installation, basic weatherproofing.
Prices rise with premium materials or specialized features. A heavy-duty pet-resistant mesh, powder-coated frame, or a door with integrated dog doors can push totals toward the $600-$900 range, especially in higher-cost markets. Careful budgeting should include potential trim work or frame replacement if the existing opening isn’t plumb.
Cost Breakdown
| Materials | Labor | Equipment | Permits | Delivery/Disposal | Accessories | Warranty | Overhead | Contingency | Taxes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Door & Screen Materials | 1.5–3.0 hours | Power drill, shims, sealant | 0–$50 | $20–$60 | Latch, weatherstripping | 1–2 years | 10–15% | 5–10% | 0–8% |
Two niche drivers to watch: (1) screen material choices affect durability and cost (fiberglass vs aluminum vs pet-rated). (2) frame requirements for uneven or rusty openings can add hours and materials. data-formula=”labor_hours × hourly_rate”>
What Drives Price
Material quality and sizing dominate the cost picture. A standard fiberglass screen door with a basic frame typically costs less than a heavy-duty aluminum frame with pet-proof mesh. Size matters: custom widths/heights add to both material cost and labor time. The door’s location (inside vs. outside celebrity exposure) and wind exposure can also influence hardware choices and sealants.
Labor rates vary widely by region. Urban centers and coastal counties tend to see higher hourly rates, while rural areas may be lower. Installation time increases when the existing opening requires trimming, shimming, or frame straightening to achieve a proper seal. Labor hours, regional factors, and material upgrades are the top price variables.
Ways To Save
Compare quotes from at least two contractors to avoid overpaying. A DIY replacement is possible for simple openings if the current frame is in good condition, saving labor costs but risking weatherproofing and warranty coverage. When hiring pros, consider a bundled package that includes installation, weatherstripping, and a basic warranty rather than pricing items separately.
Look for seasonal promotions or off-season discounts, typically in late winter or early spring before many projects surge. If the opening is square and the frame is intact, you may reduce costs by choosing standard dimensions and avoiding custom powder-coat finishes. Assumptions: standard opening, basic weatherproofing.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by market:
- West Coast cities: +5% to +15% vs national average, due to higher labor and material costs.
- Midwest suburban: near the national average, with moderate variability based on supplier choices.
- Rural Southeast: often 5% to 20% lower for labor, with similar material options.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario snapshots illustrate typical project costs with different specs.
- Basic: 32″×80″ fiberglass screen door, standard frame, standard latch, no special features. Labor 1.5–2 hours; materials $150–$250; total $230–$430.
- Mid-Range: 34″×82″ aluminum frame with mid-grade pet-friendly screen and weatherstripping. Labor 2–3 hours; materials $250–$450; total $450–$750.
- Premium: Custom-width door with reinforced frame, high-end pet mesh, multiple seals, and smart latch option. Labor 3–4 hours; materials $500–$900; total $900–$1,400.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Screen doors require periodic inspection of hinges, latches, and seals. Expect minor maintenance costs every 2–4 years for weatherstripping or hinge lubrication, typically under $50. A door installed with a solid frame and weatherproof seals can reduce drafts and energy loss, contributing to long-term savings. Factor in replacement cycles when budgeting for a rental or multi-door retrofit.
5-year cost outlook: initial replacement plus two seal refurbishments and a hinge tune-up can keep total below $1,000 in mid-range markets, whereas premium builds may approach $1,800 over the same period if several doors are upgraded or if frequent component replacements are needed.
Assumptions: mid-range life expectancy, standard maintenance cadence.