Custom Window Screens: How to Choose the Right Fit, Frame, and Mesh

Key Takeaway

Custom window screens are made to exact dimensions, frame profile, mesh type, and retention hardware so they fit and function where standard off-the-shelf screens cannot. Choosing the right screen means matching five specifications: finished size to the nearest 1/16 inch, frame depth, mesh material, crossbar placement, and hardware. Solar-control mesh can block up to 90% of solar heat gain, while 20×20 no-see-um mesh stops the smallest insects at the cost of some airflow.

Custom window screens are made to match a specific window’s finished dimensions, frame profile, mesh, and retention hardware, which is why they fit where off-the-shelf options don’t. If a torn screen is letting insects into your home, the question is how much needs replacing: re-meshing a sound frame, ordering custom made screens, or replacing the windows.

What Makes Window Screens “Custom Made”?

Custom means more than width and height. New screens must match five specifications:

Finished dimensions, to the fraction
Frame profile and depth
Mesh type and frame materials
Crossbar placement
Retention hardware: clips, springs, pull tabs, pins, and tracks

A screen can be exactly the right size and still refuse to stay in the opening.

Repair, New Mesh, Window Screen Replacement, or New Windows?

Situation	Sensible next step
Small hole, frame sound and square	Patch the mesh
Frame straight, corners tight, spline channel intact	Rescreen the existing frame
Frame bent, corners separating, spline channel damaged	Order custom screens
Drafts, water intrusion, windows hard to open or close	Evaluate the whole window

There’s no universal hole-size rule. Making the call means sorting your openings by frame condition, tear location, mesh tension, visible wear, and whether the result still looks aesthetically pleasing from the street.

How Do You Measure for Custom Screens?

When you still have the original screen

Handle removal carefully, without flexing the frame.
Measure outside edge to outside edge, start with width, then height.
Record measurements to the nearest 1/16 inch, as manufacturer measuring guides specify.
Take corner readings to ensure accuracy; frames often bow at the center.
Note frame depth, crossbar location, and every clip, spring, tab, and pin.

When the screen is missing

Identify the window type and screen channel, photograph the tracks and corners, and check the sash for manufacturer markings. Ordering systems differ: some fabricators build to the exact specifications you enter, others expect the opening measurement. Confirm which method applies before you order.

How Do You Choose the Right Mesh and Frame Materials?

Window screen material decides airflow, view, and insect protection, so choose by goal rather than catalog.

Mesh	Best for	Tradeoff
Standard fiberglass (18×16 mesh)	Everyday insect protection and airflow	Gives way under claws from pets
Aluminum	Rigidity and long lasting durability	Dents and creases permanently
Improved visibility mesh	Clearer views, more air	Finer strands in high-contact spots
20×20 no-see-um mesh	Ideal for gnats and other tiny insects	Tighter weave, less airflow
Solar-control screen	Filters sunlight to cut heat gain and glare	Darkens the view noticeably

Do Solar Screens Really Reduce Heat and Glare?

Solar-control screens are a different product from ordinary insect mesh, designed to intercept the sun’s heat before it reaches the glass. The U.S. Department of Energy reports they may block up to 90% of solar heat gain, depending on material. That’s a heat-gain figure, not a utility-bill promise, and the view is noticeably darker.

Why Window Style and Hardware Decide the Fit

Single hung and double hung: half or full screens on spring-loaded pins or tension clips
Sliders and patio doors: rollers, tracks, and latches that match the channel
Casement and awning: interior-mounted, held by clips or turn buttons

A perfectly sized frame with the wrong flange depth will rattle or drop out. Hardware decides functionality as much as fit, and a home with mixed window types rarely takes one standard order.

Where Flexible Mesh and Porch Screen Panels Fall Short

Roll-and-trim mesh kits and cut-to-size porch screen panels can cover a gap for a season. Neither holds tension like a framed screen, and neither keeps insects out for long.

What Window Screens Cannot Do: Safety and Egress

The Consumer Product Safety Commission advises never relying on an insect screen to keep a child from falling out of an open window. It estimated 5,600 children age 12 and under were treated in emergency departments in 2024 after window falls. Window guards and stops that limit openings to 4 inches are the recommended protection; pet-resistant mesh is not.

Screens over emergency escape windows must be removable from inside without a key or tools and must not reduce the required clear opening. Clear-opening figures vary by local adoption, so check your local code.

When New Window Screens Aren’t Enough

Screens do a great job keeping insects out, but they won’t fix drafts, water leakage, deteriorated sills or sashes, or windows that no longer operate properly. ENERGY STAR lists those as reasons to consider an upgrade to replacement windows.

That’s where we come in. One clarification first: we do not offer screen replacement or repair as a standalone service. We provide and install screens only when they come with the new windows we’re installing. We’re a family-owned Anlin Authorized Dealer and James Hardie Alliance Select Contractor serving Northern California, and our experts install each unit to the manufacturer’s specifications. Anlin windows are California-engineered for long lasting performance, with Low-E3 glass for energy savings, sleek BetterVue® screens built into the window system, and a lifetime warranty with accidental breakage coverage that extends to associated screens; restrictions apply. Care is easy: mild soap, water, and a soft brush, no pressure washing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What determines the price of replacement window screens?

Size, frame profile, mesh, hardware, and quantity.

Can I rescreen instead of buying new window screens?

Yes, if the frame is square, the corners are secure, and the spline channel is intact. Rescreening and screen repair aren’t services we offer; our screens come only with new window installations.

When should I replace the windows instead?

Drafts, water leakage, failed operation, or deteriorated sashes point to window replacement.

Get Your Free Estimate Today

If your windows themselves need attention, we’d like to walk your home with you and explain the whole process. We’re family-owned, licensed, bonded, and insured under California General Building License #1092104, so you never have to worry about accountability. Learn more about our windows, or contact us for a free estimate. Financing is available. Get Your Free Estimate Today by calling (916) 699-7070.

Project Gallery

See the dramatic transformations we've achieved for Northern California homeowners

Blog

Sacramento, CA – Full Exterior Remodel: James Hardie Siding in Arctic White, Anlin Panoramic Windows & Malibu Sliding Door

Grass Valley, CA – James Hardie Plank Siding in Mountain Sage with Cobble Stone Trim

Newcastle, CA – Full Exterior Transformation: James Hardie, Anlin Windows & WUI-Compliant Fire-Resistant Upgrades

Sacramento, CA – Full Exterior Transformation: James Hardie Statement Collection™, Custom Shutters & Therma-Tru® Entry Door

What Our Clients Say

Hear from Northern California homeowners who trust us with their most important investments

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 81 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   M Janney 
 September 28, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly Highly recommend Modern Construction! Gary and his team are amazing on every level, from their customer service to the quality of their work. They truly care about the details and make sure even the smallest questions or concerns are addressed quickly and efficiently. We absolutely love the quality of their work and our experience with them. I really can’t recommend Gary and his team enough!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Amy 
 September 9, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is the second siding project we hired Gary and his team to complete on our farm property. Both projects presented challenges given the type and age of the structures. The first project was a complete residing plus other structural improvements of a manufactured home. This was completed last year. The current project that Gary just finished was the complete residing, OSB install, framing replacement, and window install on the original 1930’s barn. The barn had good bones but was in need of a complete overhaul. The transformation Gary and his team completed on the barn is nothing short of amazing. I have received so many compliments on the transformation.  We are so happy to be able to breathe new life into this structure that has so much history. Gary and his team are truly skilled craftsmen that are hard to find these days. They take pride in their work and the attention to detail is remarkable. I highly recommend Modern Construction Group.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Melissa Moore 
 August 21, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have now used Modern Construction twice, and both experiences have been outstanding. Our first project was a major renovation of our 3,500 sq. ft. home, where they installed James Hardie siding and Milgard windows. We were so pleased with the quality of their work that when we needed new Andersen sliding glass doors installed at our cabin, we didn’t hesitate to call them again. What really sets Modern Construction apart is their communication, attention to detail, and genuine pride in their craftsmanship. They keep you informed throughout the project, show up when expected, and take the time to make sure every detail is done correctly. Their crews are professional, meticulous, and clearly care about the finished product. Finding a contractor you trust enough to hire a second time says a lot. After two very different projects on two different homes, we have been extremely happy with both experiences. We would absolutely use Modern Construction again and highly recommend them to anyone looking for quality work and a company that truly stands behind its craftsmanship. Five stars without hesitation!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Lesya Petiti 
 August 18, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Choosing Modern Construction Group to do the siding and windows replacements on our home was truly the best decision. From quoting to final walk through, we were met with professionalism, respect for us and our property, honesty, and all around goodness. Gary and his team were great pleasure to deal with. The crew did their job with due diligence and impeccable craftsmanship as if they were fixing up their own homes. Project went extremely smooth and the house looks phenomenal. We couldn't be more satisfied and  highly recommend MCG to anyone looking for an honest and quality contractor.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Bonnie Geyer 
 July 27, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. There aren’t enough words to adequately express how wonderful Gary Chernyetsky & his team from Modern Construction are! The core of Gary’s credo is to provide the highest quality of work & total customer satisfaction which he proved to us completely. We needed work on our three story house; paint, siding, dry rot work & new windows. We met with Gary one morning & by afternoon we received a quote that was all-encompassing which included detailed description of the scope of work with pictures, description of products to be used & price. His team was polite & extremely hard working from 8am to 5:30 pm six days a week. Work was never delayed because of another customer. We were always treated as a priority. Gary came out everyday to check on work & if we had any questions. If anything was not done to our satisfaction, Gary would see to it that it was changed - without any contention. They also did extra work that was not listed in the scope of work like extra molding or repairs because Gary believes in doing quality work, not what expedient for them. He always puts the customer first. Our house is beautifully done thanks to Modern Construction. Plus Gary will come back six months later to see if all the work is still to our satisfaction!  Modern Construction is a rare company that fulfills their promises, goes above & beyond to please the customer & takes pride in providing the highest quality of work. We can state without reservation that Modern Construction is THE VERY BEST! JUNE 2026 I needed my front door replaced & I went directly to Modern Construction Group because they did such an outstanding work on my house last year. Again, Gary & his team did an excellent & quick job. Gary comes out to the job to check on things & then comes back the next day to make sure we are satisfied-what excellent customer service! Every detail on my front door is perfect. I just love my new front door thanks to Gary & his team. DO NOT HESITATE TO HIRE THIS EXCELLENT COMPANY!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Morena Barahona Merlos 
 July 24, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Choosing Modern Construction Group, Inc. to have all of my house windows installed was the best decision I made. Gary, the owner was excellent to work with; he came every day to personally supervise the work; to ask my opinion and if there were any concerns. The products he used are top of the line. The workers were totally professional, took great care to protect my floors and furniture and did a great job. Once they were done, my house looked like nothing had happened except that my windows now look fantastic. When I had a question, Gary was available right away and even after they were done with the job, I had something to show him and he came right away. The windows are beautiful and energy efficient, we already feel the difference. I highly recommend Gary and his company, Modern Construction Group, Inc.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Vitaliy Karashchuk 
 July 24, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently had my windows replaced by Modern Construction Group, Inc., and I couldn’t be happier with the results. The difference the new windows have made is incredible. We chose windows with sound protection, and the reduction in outside noise and it has exceeded my expectations. (We live next to the Elementary School) The installation team did an outstanding job. They were professional, worked efficiently, and kept the work area clean and organized throughout the entire project. Gary was also excellent to work with. He stayed in constant communication, kept me informed every step of the way, and made sure I understood the process from start to finish. His attention to detail and follow-up gave me complete confidence throughout the project. Another major improvement is the energy efficiency. The new windows have made a tremendous difference in keeping our house cooler, and our air conditioner doesn’t have to run nearly as much as it used to. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with both the installation and the way Modern Construction Group handled the entire project. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for high-quality windows and exceptional customer service.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jen C 
 June 15, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We couldn't be happier with the work completed by Gary and his team at Modern Construction Group. They converted a window into a sliding glass door and replaced our old window-and-slider combination with a beautiful three-panel slider, completely transforming the space. From the very beginning, their communication was excellent. Gary took the time to answer all of our questions and helped us choose the right options for our home. The proposal was detailed and easy to understand, and the team kept us informed throughout every stage of the project. Everyone we worked with was professional, knowledgeable, and respectful of our home. The craftsmanship and attention to detail were outstanding, and the final result exceeded our expectations. The room feels brighter, more open, and much more connected to our backyard. We constantly receive compliments from family and friends who see the space, and it truly feels like it was always meant to be this way. We are so glad we chose Modern Construction Group and would confidently recommend them to friends, family, and anyone considering a home improvement project. We wouldn't hesitate to work with Gary and his team again.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Britton Miller 
 June 11, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We recently had Modern Construction Group replace 18 windows in our home, install a new patio door, convert one window into a Dutch door, and close up another adjacent window—and the results were outstanding! Everything looks seamless, as if it was part of the original construction. From the initial quote through final payment, communication was consistently prompt, professional, and polite. They took the time to answer all of our questions and made sure they understood exactly what we wanted before moving forward. Gary, who managed the project, was exceptional. He was organized, responsive, and clearly cared about the quality of the work. There was a hiccup with the Dutch door that was initially provided, but Gary handled it masterfully—he went back to the manufacturer and had it replaced quickly and without hassle. That level of accountability made a big difference. He also held a high bar for craftsmanship, even asking workers to redo items that weren’t perfectly executed the first time. All of the subcontractors were efficient, courteous, and respectful of our busy household (including kids and dogs). They worked seamlessly and made sure to clean up thoroughly at the end of each day. You may notice in the photos that some areas around the new installations are not painted—this was our choice, as we decided to handle the painting ourselves to save on cost. That said, they did offer to include painting as part of the project and were happy to quote it. Overall, this was a smooth, stress-free experience with high-quality results. I would highly recommend Modern Construction Group to anyone looking for reliable, detail-oriented professionals.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Marius Petraru 
 May 7, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We just finished installing 13 Anlin windows and two large sliding doors, and we are thrilled with the quality and craftsmanship of the work. The crew was very polite, professional, and made sure to clean up thoroughly at the end of each day. The communication with Gary, the owner of Modern Construction Group, was amazing from beginning to end. He was attentive, responsive, and made the entire process smooth and stress-free. This was a large project that lasted three days, and it was executed with true professionalism and great attention to detail. If I could give 10 stars, they would absolutely deserve it. It was a pleasure doing business with Modern Construction Group, and I will definitely keep them on my list for future projects. For transparency, I am not affiliated with the company in any way — just a very satisfied customer.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 17 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Yelp  
   
   Jenny K. 
 June 26, 2026
 
 
 Verified Hands down, Modern Construction was the most professional contractor we worked with throughout our renovation. We recently purchased a 1935 Tudor in East Sacramento that had extensive dry rot, termite damage, and several broken windows. Gary came out to provide a quote and immediately stood out for his sincerity, honesty, and genuine care for our home. He took the time to explain exactly what needed to be done, walked us through the financial aspects, and presented several options that fit our budget. Although we received multiple bids, we ultimately chose Modern Construction because we felt confident they truly cared about the quality of their work--and they exceeded every expectation. From start to finish, every member of the crew demonstrated exceptional attention to detail, professionalism, honesty, and respect. Renovating an older home came with its fair share of unexpected challenges, but Gary and his team guided us through every step of the process with patience and expertise. What impressed me most was Gary's communication. Not once did I have a question or concern that went unanswered. He was always responsive, professional, and willing to help before, during, and after the project. We couldn't be happier with the results and are incredibly grateful for the care Modern Construction put into restoring our home. We will absolutely be using them again for future projects and highly recommend them to anyone looking for a contractor who truly takes pride in their work.
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Jerry S. 
 March 1, 2025
 
 
 Verified Gary and his team are amazing. They replaced our sliding patio door with French doors. The detailed workmanship was outstanding. Gary goes out of his way to make you feel like a valued customer and makes sure you are absolutely satisfied with the results. I highly recommend them.
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Laura B. 
 December 22, 2024
 
 
 Verified We've remodeled our house a little bit at a time, so we have worked with a lot of contractors. Communication is not typically their strength, but Gary is super responsive. We had somewhat unique ideas about our siding, and Gary found exactly what we wanted. He and his team were always professional, and did quality work, and they got it done quickly without cutting corners. We are super happy with the results. Even after we paid, Gary sent his team to do final touches, and then Gary came himself. He also had our courtyard fence painted at no cost. I am so happy to not have that summer project! I will also add that he provided the most detailed quote, which I really appreciated. I highly recommend!
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Bonnie G. 
 December 9, 2024
 
 
 Verified There aren't enough words to adequately express how wonderful Gary Chernyetsky & his team from Modern Construction are! The core of Gary's credo is to provide the highest quality of work & total customer satisfaction which he proved to us completely. We needed work on our three story house; paint, siding, dry rot work & new windows. We met with Gary one morning & by afternoon we received a quote that was all-encompassing which included detailed description of the scope of work with pictures, description of products to be used & price. His team was polite & extremely hard working from 8am to 5:30 pm six days a week. Work was never delayed because of another customer. We were always treated as a priority. Gary came out everyday to check on work & if we had any questions. If anything was not done to our satisfaction, Gary would see to it that it was changed - without any contention. They also did extra work that was not listed in the scope of work like extra molding or repairs because Gary believes in doing quality work, not what expedient for them. He always puts the customer first. Our house is beautifully done thanks to Modern Construction. Plus Gary will come back six months later to see if all the work is still to our satisfaction!  Modern Construction is a rare company that fulfills their promises, goes above & beyond to please the customer & takes pride in providing the highest quality of work. We can state without reservation that Modern Construction is THE VERY BEST!
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Craig D. 
 September 28, 2024
 
 
 Verified I worked with Modern Construction for painting and stucco work and so much more, too many things to list here. Gary was fantastic to work with, he was always there to meet in person, understood what we needed and made the process very smooth. As the remodeling progressed new items were found and they were able to take care of it all. The pricing was reasonable and the end result fantastic. The property looked great. I'd highly recommend them.
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Tom C. 
 August 30, 2024
 
 
 Verified Gary and his team came through and I am very pleased with the results. It all started with a detailed proposal that spelled out the work, leaving no doubt the big stuff was covered. On day one, a crew of four showed up on time to take care of the demo and install windows. After the rough in inspection, the team did a wonderful job installing the siding and trim pieces. Gary and I communicated throughout the project, for the work and to setup inspections. Coming from a retired project manager, I was pleased that it all came off like clock work and there were no surprises on this job (as often experienced by many others).  I would definitely hire MCG again on a future project.
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Jordan H. 
 August 1, 2024
 
 
 Verified We had a wonderful experience with Gary and his team in replacing our siding, windows, and insulation. We had heard about them from other people we knew, and when making the final decision, we saw the incredible reviews all over for Modern, helping us solidify our decision (thank you Yelp!). Gary was prompt, courteous, and professional from the first estimate through the completion of the project. He responded to questions about the estimate and final questions before making the decision, and communication is a big thing for us. The team who actually completed the project had all the same positive attributes. Perhaps the most amazing part was that the team stayed on the promised schedule, even with a holiday and the heat being above 110 every day they were working on the project. They showed up on time every day to make sure the project was done. In addition to the heat, there was an issue with the windows being delayed in arriving from the manufacturer. Gary advocated for us to do all he could to get us the windows as quickly as possible (originally they were going to be 3 days late, but after he spoke with the powers that be, he got it bumped down to only 1 day late). One window even got delivered to the wrong place, and he did what he could to track it down and get it to us as soon as he could. We also had to address some electrical tasks during this project, some of which were very much intertwined with the work Gary was doing, and Gary worked well in coordinating with our electrician. Lastly, when the project was essentially done and Gary did the walkthrough, he kept his same work ethic and attention to detail. Throughout the project he was very interested in the big picture of the final project. During the walkthrough, he addressed everything we wanted fixed, no matter how small, and even found some items he added to his list that we did not notice, wanting to make sure nothing was left undone. For big projects like this, you want the job done well and someone easy to work with, which is what Gary and his team offer. We would easily do other work with him, and give more stars if possible.
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Kristy L. 
 June 3, 2024
 
 
 Verified We recently had a master bath remodel done with Modern Construction Group. the entire process was so perfect! The team checked in with us on suggestion and confirmed we were always on the same page. They went above and beyond to make sure we were happy and completed what we had discussed. Our Master bathroom and walk in closet turned out better than I could imagine! They also installed three windows for us and it has made our room look so much bigger. Thank you Gary, Paul, and team we are so happy and highly recommend this company for any remodel that you may need.
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   David L. 
 May 30, 2024
 
 
 Verified We used Gary and Modern Construction Group for a full bathroom remodel and added a walk in closet and windows in our bedroom. I would highly recommend Modern Construction Group. From start to finish this project was seamless. During the quoting process Gary and Paul were very knowledgeable and suggested different and fresh ideas that we hadn't really thought of, and we said to ourselves yeah that's a great idea or suggestion. We got a number of different quotes and hands down Gary and Modern Construction provided the best overall and most comprehensive quote. Gary, Paul and the crew kept the bathroom remodel on schedule, they communicated perfectly to ensure that everything was followed based on the contract. All in all the bathroom remodel turned out absolutely amazing and we love it. When we are ready to do our other bathroom remodel we will be calling Gary and Modern Construction Group.
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Chris R. 
 March 23, 2024
 
 
 Verified I had Modern Construction Group replace two of my exterior doors. Gary and crew were fantastic. One of the most important things for me when selecting contractors (outside of quality of work) is communication and speed of communication. I was incredibly happy with responses and open communication I received with Gary. Gary's crew did a wonderful job on my door replacements and trim. I believe I got a reasonably fair price for the effort. I'll definitely use them for further work on my home in the future.