Solar screens typically cost between $40 and $120 per window, depending on factors such as size, quality, and installation. Prices may vary by region and specific requirements.
Solar screens are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners who want to reduce their energy bills and improve the comfort of their homes. But before you decide to install solar screens, it’s important to know how much they cost.
In this article, we’ll explore the factors that affect the price of solar screens and provide you with an estimate of how much you can expect to pay for this energy-saving technology. So if you’re curious about solar screens and want to learn more about their cost, keep reading!
Factors Affecting Solar Screen Prices
One of the most significant factors is the size and number of windows you want to cover. The larger your windows, the more material you’ll need, which will increase costs accordingly.
If you have a lot of windows in your home or business that require solar screens, this will also drive up prices.
Another factor that affects solar screen prices is the type and quality of materials used in their construction. Solar screens made from high-quality materials such as fiberglass or polyester tend to be more expensive than those made from cheaper alternatives like aluminum or vinyl-coated polyester.
Customization options can also impact pricing for solar screens. If you want custom sizes or shapes for your window frames, expect to pay extra fees for these services.
Installation costs are another important consideration when it comes to determining overall expenses associated with installing new solar screens on your property.
Types of Solar Screen Materials
The most common types of solar screen fabrics include fiberglass, polyester, and PVC-coated polyester. Fiberglass is a popular choice due to its durability and resistance to fading or discoloration over time.
Polyester screens are also durable but tend to be less expensive than fiberglass screens.
PVC-coated polyester is another option that provides excellent protection against UV rays while still allowing for good visibility through the window. This type of material is often used in commercial settings where privacy isn’t a concern.
In addition to these standard materials, some manufacturers offer specialty fabrics such as pet-resistant screens or insect-repelling mesh that can provide additional benefits depending on your needs.
Ultimately, the type of material you choose will depend on your budget and specific requirements for energy efficiency and sun protection.
Solar Screen Sizes and Dimensions
The size and dimensions of your windows will determine the amount of material needed for each screen, which in turn affects the overall cost. Most solar screen manufacturers offer standard sizes that fit most windows, but custom sizes are also available for non-standard or oversized windows.
Before purchasing solar screens, you’ll need to measure your window openings carefully to ensure a proper fit. Measure both the height and width of each window frame from inside edge to inside edge.
Be sure to take into account any obstructions such as handles or locks that may affect how far out from the frame you can install a screen.
Once you have accurate measurements, consult with a professional installer or manufacturer about what size options are available for your specific needs. Keep in mind that larger screens may require additional support structures such as crossbars or tension cables.
Custom Solar Screen Options
Custom screens can be made to fit any size or shape of window, including arches and circles. You can also choose from a variety of colors and materials to match your home’s exterior design.
Custom solar screens may cost more than standard sizes due to the additional labor required for measuring and manufacturing them. However, they are still an affordable option compared to other energy-saving technologies like double-paned windows.
When considering custom solar screens, it’s important to work with a reputable manufacturer who has experience in creating customized solutions. They should provide accurate measurements and ensure proper installation for optimal performance.
Solar Screen Brands and Manufacturers
Some of the most popular brands include Phifer, Twitchell, and Textilene. These companies offer a range of solar screen materials in different colors and styles.
Phifer is one of the leading manufacturers of solar screens in the United States. The company offers a variety of high-quality materials that are designed to block up to 90% of UV rays while still allowing natural light into your home.
Twitchell is another well-known brand that specializes in outdoor fabrics for residential and commercial use. Their Solar Screen line features durable PVC-coated polyester yarns that provide excellent heat protection without sacrificing visibility or airflow.
Textilene is also a top choice for homeowners looking for quality solar screens at an affordable price point. Their products come with a 10-year warranty against fading or mildew damage, making them an excellent investment for those who want long-lasting protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
Buying Vs. Building Solar Screens
Buying solar screens is the easier option since you can simply order them online or from a local supplier and have them installed by professionals. However, this convenience comes at a cost as pre-made solar screens tend to be more expensive than DIY options.
Building your own solar screen may require some effort and time but can save you money in the long run. You’ll need to purchase materials such as screen fabric, frames, spline rollers and other tools required for installation which will add up in costs initially but could potentially save hundreds of dollars compared with purchasing ready-to-install ones.
If you’re handy with tools and enjoy DIY projects then building your own custom-sized window shades might be an enjoyable project that saves money while providing energy savings benefits over time. On the other hand if measuring windows accurately seems daunting or if installing anything on your home’s exterior makes you nervous then purchasing professionally made products may be worth considering despite their higher price tag.
Installation Costs for Solar Screens
If you’re handy with tools and have experience installing window treatments, you may be able to install solar screens yourself. However, if you’re not comfortable with DIY projects or have a large number of windows to cover, it’s best to hire a professional installer.
Professional installation costs typically range from $50-$100 per hour plus materials. The total cost will depend on factors such as the size and type of screen material used, any customizations required for your specific needs (such as odd-shaped or oversized windows), and whether there are any obstacles that need special attention during installation.
It’s important to note that while hiring a professional installer may seem like an added expense upfront, it can save time and ensure proper installation which could prevent costly mistakes in the long run. Additionally some manufacturers offer warranties only when their products are installed by certified professionals.
Energy Savings and ROI
Solar screens can help reduce the amount of heat that enters your home through windows, which means you’ll need less air conditioning to keep your home cool during hot summer months. This reduction in energy usage can lead to significant savings on your monthly utility bills.
The exact amount you save will depend on factors such as the size and number of windows covered by solar screens, local climate conditions, and how much you typically use air conditioning. However, some studies have shown that installing solar screens can result in up to a 25% reduction in cooling costs.
In addition to saving money on utilities each month, investing in solar screens also has a positive return on investment (ROI) over time. While initial installation costs may seem high compared with other window treatments or upgrades like blinds or curtains; they are more durable than these alternatives and last longer while providing better insulation from outside temperatures.
Government Incentives and Rebates
In many states, homeowners may be eligible for tax credits or cash rebates when they install energy-efficient products like solar screens. The federal government also offers a tax credit for up to 30% of the cost of purchasing and installing solar screens.
To qualify for these incentives, you’ll need to meet certain requirements, such as using Energy Star-certified products or working with certified contractors. Be sure to check with your state’s energy office or utility company to see what programs are available in your area.
While these incentives won’t cover the entire cost of installation, they can make a significant dent in your overall expenses.
Additional Benefits of Solar Screens
For example, they can help protect your furniture and flooring from fading due to sun exposure. They also provide privacy by blocking the view into your home while still allowing you to see outside.
Solar screens can also enhance the appearance of your home’s exterior. With a variety of colors and styles available, you can choose a design that complements or contrasts with your existing decor.
Another benefit is that solar screens are environmentally friendly. By reducing energy consumption in homes, they help reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with electricity generation.
Comparing Solar Screens to Alternatives
Other alternatives include window films, awnings, and shades. Each of these options has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Window films are a popular alternative to solar screens because they can be applied directly onto existing windows without any additional hardware or installation costs. However, they may not be as effective at blocking heat as solar screens since they do not provide shade for the entire window.
Awnings can also help reduce heat gain by shading windows from direct sunlight. They come in various styles and materials but require professional installation which adds to their cost.
Shades offer another solution for blocking sunlight while still allowing natural light into your home. They come in different types such as roller shades or cellular shades that have insulating properties which make them more energy-efficient than regular blinds or curtains.
Exterior Vs. Interior Solar Screen Cost
Both options come with their own set of pros and cons, but one factor that may influence your decision is cost.
Exterior solar screens tend to be more expensive than interior ones due to their installation process. Exterior screens require special brackets and hardware for mounting, which can add extra costs in terms of labor and materials.
However, they also provide better protection against heat gain since they block sunlight before it enters your home.
Interior solar screens are typically less expensive because they don’t require any additional hardware for installation. They’re also easier to clean since you can remove them from inside your home.
However, they may not be as effective at blocking heat as exterior screens since some sunlight will still enter through the window before being blocked by the screen.
Solar Screen Door Costs
They allow you to enjoy the fresh air and natural light while keeping out insects and reducing heat gain. The cost of solar screen doors varies depending on the size, material, and quality of the product.
On average, a standard-sized solar screen door can cost between $100-$300. However, custom sizes or higher-quality materials may increase this price range significantly.
When considering purchasing a solar screen door for your home, it’s important to factor in installation costs as well. While some homeowners may choose to install their own screens using DIY kits available at hardware stores for around $50-$100 per kit; others prefer hiring professionals which could add an additional $75-$150 per hour plus any necessary materials.
Solar Screen Material Quality
Higher-quality materials will generally be more expensive, but they may also provide better energy savings and last longer than cheaper options.
One common type of solar screen material is fiberglass, which is durable and resistant to fading. Another option is polyester, which can offer a higher level of UV protection but may not be as strong as fiberglass.
When choosing a solar screen material, it’s important to consider factors such as durability, color options (which can affect heat absorption), and transparency levels (which can impact visibility). You’ll also want to look for materials that are specifically designed for outdoor use in order to ensure longevity.
While high-quality materials may come with a higher price tag upfront, they could ultimately save you money in the long run by providing greater energy efficiency and lasting longer before needing replacement.
Solar Screen Maintenance Costs
Fortunately, maintenance costs for solar screens are relatively low. In fact, many homeowners find that the cost of maintaining their solar screens is negligible compared to the energy savings and other benefits they provide.
The main maintenance task for solar screens is cleaning them regularly. This involves removing any dirt or debris that has accumulated on the screen surface using a soft brush or cloth and mild soap solution.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials as these can damage the screen material.
If your home experiences severe weather conditions such as hailstorms or high winds, you may need to inspect your solar screens for damage and make repairs if necessary. Depending on how extensive any damage is, repair costs could range from minimal (e.g., patching small holes) up to several hundred dollars (e.g., replacing an entire panel).
DIY Solar Screen Installation Vs. Hiring a Professional
While this can save money on installation costs, it’s important to consider the potential risks and drawbacks of a DIY approach.
Firstly, installing solar screens requires precise measurements and cutting of materials. If done incorrectly, your screens may not fit properly or could even fall off your windows.
This could lead to wasted time and money spent on replacement materials.
Secondly, professional installers have access to specialized equipment that allows them to quickly measure windows accurately for custom-fit solar screen installations. They also know how best to secure the frames in place without damaging window sills or frames.
Hiring a professional installer ensures that any warranties or guarantees are valid should something go wrong during installation or if there is an issue with the product itself down the line.
Warranties and Guarantees
A warranty is a promise from the manufacturer that their product will perform as advertised for a certain period of time. Guarantees are similar but may offer additional protections such as money-back guarantees or satisfaction guarantees.
Most reputable solar screen manufacturers offer warranties ranging from 5 to 10 years on their products, while some even provide lifetime warranties. These warranties typically cover defects in materials and workmanship, fading of colors due to sun exposure, and other issues that may arise with normal use.
It’s also important to check if your installer offers any installation-related guarantee or warranty on their workmanship. This can protect you against any potential issues arising during installation which could affect your new investment.
Before making a purchase decision based solely on price alone make sure you understand what kind of protection is included in case something goes wrong down the line.
Getting Quotes for Solar Screen Installation
It’s important to compare prices and services offered by various companies before making a decision.
When getting quotes for solar screen installation, make sure you provide accurate information about your windows’ size and dimensions. This will help the provider give you an accurate estimate of how much it will cost.
You should also ask about any additional costs that may not be included in the initial quote, such as taxes or fees for customizations. Make sure everything is clear upfront so there are no surprises later on.
It’s also a good idea to ask for references or reviews from previous customers who have had solar screens installed by that company. This can give you an idea of their level of expertise and customer service.
FAQ
Are solar screens worth the cost?
Yes, solar screens are worth the cost, as they can improve indoor air quality and make your home up to 50% more energy-efficient, ultimately reducing cooling costs and your carbon footprint.
How much of a difference do solar screens make?
Solar screens make a significant difference by blocking 65-90% of UV rays, reducing heat in your home while maintaining 15-40% visibility to allow ample light for plants.
How long do solar screens last?
Solar screens, when properly installed, can last 10 years or more.
Are solar screens good for winter?
Yes, solar screens are good for winter as they act as an extra insulator for windows, providing protection against cold winds and heat loss from the home.
What factors influence the pricing of solar screens?
Factors influencing the pricing of solar screens include material, size, installation complexity, and location.
Can solar screens contribute to energy savings in the long run?
Yes, solar screens can contribute to energy savings in the long run.
Are there any tax incentives or rebates available for installing solar screens?
Yes, tax incentives and rebates are available for installing solar screens.
