What you should know
- The price of custom-made fly screens depends primarily on the size, the material, the installation effort and the region where the tradesperson is based.
- The chosen material, the quality of installation, regional price differences, special requirements and possible subsidies all have a significant impact on the total cost.
- Comparing several quotes, using group discounts and choosing a seasonally favorable time to buy will help you save money and avoid cost traps.
What do professional fly screens cost? Surprising price factors, savings tips and cost traps
Flies, mosquitoes and other uninvited critters are the last thing anyone wants in their home – and yet many hesitate to invest in high-quality fly screens because they assume it will be expensive. In reality, there is often much more behind the price than most people realize. Why do the costs for fly screens from professional installers vary so widely? Which factors drive the price up, and where can you save smartly? The answers are surprising, and anyone who knows the cost traps is guaranteed to sleep more peacefully through those balmy summer evenings.
The price structure for professionally installed insect screens
The price range for made-to-measure insect screens is astonishing: while inexpensive standard solutions from DIY stores are available for as little as 30 to 50 euros, professional installation often costs 150 to 400 euros per window—a hefty difference. Behind these figures are completely different services, from simple measuring to precise manufacturing and professional installation. Those who value quality, long service life and a secure fit usually opt for a professional, but even then the pricing can be confusing. All the more reason to understand the underlying cost factors properly.
The most important price factors when installation is carried out by professionals
How much you actually end up spending on your new insect screen is influenced by several variables. The size and number of windows or doors are of course the biggest items on the bill, but the chosen material, the complexity of the openings (sliding doors, roof windows, special shapes), on-site accessibility and the installers’ labor time also have an impact. An insect screen for an easily accessible standard window, for example, costs significantly less than a custom-made solution for a multi-leaf patio door with complex installation. Many providers also charge extra for travel or rush orders. Even small changes to windows or individual design requests can drive up the final price – which keeps surprising many customers. A good insect screen made of metal offers particularly high durability and resistance to external influences. Metal insect screens are an ideal choice for anyone looking for long-lasting protection against insects.
The material of fly screens and its impact on costs
It’s what’s inside that counts: The mesh you choose and the frame determine not only the appearance, but also have a huge impact on the price. Fiberglass is the most economical option, while aluminum falls in the mid-price range, and stainless steel is particularly popular with allergy sufferers or pet owners – though at a higher cost. If you want something even more exclusive, you can opt for high-tech fine mesh for particularly small insects, but you’ll pay several times more. A fly screen is not only protection against insects. In many cases, it also helps keep uninvited guests such as rats out. A common question many people ask is: Can rats get in through tilted windows? Generally yes – especially in urban areas, where these animals are looking for food and shelter. It is therefore advisable to use high-quality fly screens even on tilted windows to provide extra security for your home. The following table clearly shows the differences:
| Material | Eigenschaften | Price range |
|---|---|---|
| Fibreglass | low-maintenance, flexible, cost-effective | 20 - 40 euros |
| Aluminum | stable, durable, weather-resistant | 40–70 euros |
| Stainless steel | Extremely robust, elegant, suitable for allergy sufferers | 60–110 euros |
| Special (pollen protection, pets) | fine-meshed, particularly hard-wearing | 70–130 euros |
The region of the tradesman’s business and differences in price levels
Those who live in rural areas can usually expect somewhat lower prices than residents of expensive cities. In metropolitan areas, higher wages and operating costs noticeably drive up quotes, while in rural regions competition among tradespeople can lead to fairer prices. Solo operators and small businesses also often calculate more cheaply than large specialist firms, whose service levels in turn play a major role in convenience. Comparing different providers is therefore particularly worthwhile, as the following table illustrates:
| Region / provider | Sample price (window, standard size) | Besonderheiten |
|---|---|---|
| Big city, specialist company | 180 - 400 euros | Higher labour and operating costs |
| Rural area, specialist contractor | 130 - 260 euros | often lower hourly rate |
| DIY store/do‑it‑yourself | 30–80 euros | No custom fabrication, self‑assembly |
Money-saving tips for buying fly screens safely
The desire for low prices is understandable. With a smart approach, you can save a lot without compromising on quality or service. Here are the best money-saving tips to really cut the cost of fly screens while still staying on the safe side:
- Compare at least three offers from local professionals – there are often significant differences in price and service.
- Whenever possible, opt for standard dimensions – this way you avoid expensive custom-made products.
- Ask about group discounts (for example, if several windows in the whole house are being fitted, or if neighbours order together).
- Check whether you can take advantage of subsidy programs (e.g. for allergy-friendly housing or burglary protection).
- Self-assembly of simple systems saves installation costs, but does require a certain level of DIY skill.
The timing of purchase and potential seasonal price advantages
Many people don’t think about new insect screens until the first mosquito starts buzzing – by then, specialist companies are in peak season and prices go up. Those who order in autumn or winter often benefit from lower demand, faster delivery times and even special offers. Who would have thought: the cold season becomes prime time for bargain hunters! That’s exactly when many tradespeople offer attractive discounts, as they want to keep their teams busy outside the main season as well.
The right offer and funding opportunities
When comparing quotes, always look at the complete service package. A supposed bargain can quickly turn into a money pit if consultation, measuring or travel costs are not included. Many tradespeople offer all-inclusive packages that cover all key services. Even better if you actively look for subsidies: for example, those who opt for pollen protection screens may in some cases receive grants from their health insurance provider. KfW programmes for reducing barriers or improving burglary protection can also open up additional funding opportunities in some situations. A call to a specialist company is therefore doubly worthwhile if you ask about individual funding options.
The cost traps when buying fly screens
Despite all the enthusiasm for custom insect protection, it’s essential to keep a close eye on potential cost traps. It’s great when everything goes smoothly – but in practice, consumers repeatedly encounter unpleasant surprises.
The hidden additional costs of consultation and installation
Some providers lure customers with low entry-level prices, only to add hefty charges for consultation, measuring, travel and cutting. Suddenly, items appear on the final invoice that were never clearly communicated beforehand – frustration is inevitable. Reputable specialists list all costs in the quote and clearly explain which services are included. If you get the feeling that a “free initial consultation” is somehow being paid for after all, it’s better to ask one question too many than one too few.
The impact of special requests and custom-made products
Anyone who loves something special – such as fly screens in unusual colours, an integrated cat flap or ultra-thin high-tech fabrics – often pays more than twice as much as for the basic range. Custom-made products can quickly blow the budget if every little detail is charged separately. In many cases, standardisation is worthwhile; if you insist on very specific requirements, you should factor an appropriate buffer into your budget.
One satisfied customer remarked: “The custom-made solution was worth the money, but comparing prices beforehand would have saved me quite a few euros!”
If you are now thinking about fly screens, there’s only one thing for it: have the courage to compare offers ruthlessly and don’t hesitate to ask for custom deals. What had you budgeted – and are special solutions worth more to you than a bit of standard? Your home, your rules!