Window and patio door screens are extremely convenient for homeowners and provide them with the added benefits of being able to enjoy the outdoors in the comfort of their homes. However, over time window and patio door screens fade, age and become more work than they are worth.Instead of just removing the screen and living without the convenience it provides, replace it as soon as you can.Sun Damage on Window and Patio ScreensOne of disadvantages of the sun is that it fades most materials, and window and patio door screens are no exception. At least with the furniture in our home, we can install energy-efficient windows that can block the damage that the sun does to prevent the sun from making them fade. With the window screens though, they are on the wrong side of those energy-efficient windows and take the brunt of the sun’s rays.Overtime, as the material in the screens will fade and breakdown the only thing you can really do is to replace the whole screen.

Animal Damage to Window and Patio ScreensAnimals are rough on window and patio door screens. They scratch them, attack them trying to get at something on the other side; and even unfortunately, if they are determined enough, they break right through them.With the extensive damage that animals can do, in most cases there is no way to fix the screen itself. The frame of the screens can be bent too far to fit any longer and once the screens are broke to that point they cannot be repaired.Excessively Dirty Window and Patio ScreensNow, excessively dirty screens are really the only ones that you have a chance of saving. In most cases they can be cleaned, but there are cases where an excessively dirty window or patio screen just needs to be replaced like when there is:

• Caked on bird droppings
• Layers of pet hair
• Fire/smoke damage
• Years of dirt layered on the screen

Before deciding to replace a dirty screen with a new one, always try to clean it first; you may be surprised with what can be removed with a soft, scrub brush and some warm, soapy water.To learn more about your replacement options, schedule an in-home consultation today.