Should You Replace Just One Screen Panel or Rescreen the Entire Enclosure?
Living in Naples, FL, you already know how vital your lanai or pool cage is—whether it’s for keeping bugs out, enjoying the breeze, or protecting your outdoor space during the rainy season. But what happens when one screen panel gets damaged? Do you really need a full rescreening job, or can you get away with replacing just the one panel?
At Best Rescreen Company, we get this question a lot—from homeowners in Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Estero, Cape Coral, and Fort Myers. Let’s break it down.
✅ When Replacing One Panel Makes Sense
There are cases where replacing just one panel is totally fine. Here are some examples:
- Recent Damage: If the tear or hole happened recently (from a branch, pet, or accident) and the rest of the screen looks good, replacing one panel might be enough.
- Newer Screen Enclosure: If your enclosure was rescreened within the last 2–3 years, the mesh is probably still in good shape and matching the new panel won’t be an issue.
- Isolated Issue: Sometimes birds, squirrels, or storm debris hit just one corner. If that’s the only damaged spot, a single replacement is more cost-effective.
This option saves time and money, especially if your goal is to fix the issue quickly without upgrading the entire system.
⚠️ When Full Rescreening Is the Smarter Move
While a quick fix might sound good, it’s not always the best idea. Here’s when full rescreening might be necessary:
1. Age of the Screen
If your screen enclosure is over 7–10 years old, even one small tear might be a sign that the mesh is wearing down overall. Replacing one panel won’t solve the problem long-term, and you’ll likely see other panels start to fail soon after.
2. Color Mismatch
Older screen mesh fades over time. A brand-new panel will stand out, especially if the sun has lightened the existing screens. This affects not just the look, but the consistency in mesh quality and strength.
3. Multiple Small Tears
If you’re noticing a few small tears in different areas, that’s a red flag. The mesh might be brittle, meaning it’s only a matter of time before more holes appear. At that point, it’s more cost-effective to do the entire enclosure at once.
4. Storm or Hurricane Damage
In Southwest Florida, strong winds and flying debris are no joke. After a hurricane, if more than a couple panels are ripped or loose, full rescreening is usually necessary for structural safety and insurance coverage.
🧱 Why Quality Materials Matter
At Best Rescreen Company, we don’t just slap in any old mesh. We offer premium screen options:
- Standard 18×14 Fiberglass Mesh – great for general use
- 20×20 No-See-Um Mesh – keeps out even the tiniest bugs
- Pet Screen – thicker and stronger, ideal for pet owners
- Florida Glass (Laminated) – adds privacy and keeps out rain
- Super Screen & Polyester Mesh – longer-lasting and tear-resistant
When you choose a full rescreening, it’s also a chance to upgrade to a better material that matches your lifestyle and weather needs in Naples, Bonita Springs, or Marco Island.
💬 Expert Opinion: Ask Before You Assume
The decision between single-panel replacement and full rescreening comes down to condition, age, and your goals.
We always suggest getting a free inspection. Our technicians will check:
- Frame condition
- Mesh elasticity and wear
- Panel alignment
- Overall integrity of your screen enclosure
We’ll never upsell what you don’t need—but we’ll give you honest feedback so you can make the right choice for your home and budget.
📍Serving All of Southwest Florida
If you’re in or around:
- Naples
- Marco Island
- Bonita Springs
- Estero
- Cape Coral
- Fort Myers
—we’ve got you covered with professional, fast, and friendly service.
📞 Call the Screen Experts Today
Whether you need one panel replaced or a full rescreen, don’t guess—call the pros.
Best Rescreen Company
📍 5660 Strand Ct Unit A244, Naples, FL 34110
📞 (239) 344-7774
🌐 www.bestrescreenco.com
Call now for your free estimate and see why we’re Southwest Florida’s most trusted rescreening company.
