It’s easy to ignore your window and door screens in winter. They’re not exactly top of mind when you’re trying to stay warm, shovel snow, or get the car started in minus twenty. But that’s exactly why small screen issues tend to go unnoticed this time of year, and why they turn into bigger (and more expensive) problems come spring.

Here are the top five screen problems most homeowners overlook during the colder months:

1. Warped Frames from Freeze/Thaw Cycles

Winter’s constant shift between freezing and thawing can quietly wreak havoc on your screen frames. Aluminum frames can twist out of shape, and plastic ones may crack or bow. You won’t always see it right away, but come spring, those frames might not fit properly anymore, and that means drafts, loose mesh, and a lot of frustration.

2. Brittle or Cracked Mesh

Cold temperatures make screen mesh more brittle, especially if it’s older or sun-damaged from summer. A small tear in November can become a full-on rip by March. But since you’re not opening your windows much in the winter, it’s easy to miss. A quick inspection now could save you from surprise repairs later.

3. Loose or Popped-Out Corners

The weight of snow or the pressure of wind can cause screen corners to shift or pop out of the frame slightly. It’s subtle, but it creates gaps where cold air, moisture, and even pests can sneak in. If you’ve noticed a chill near your patio door or porch, your screens might be part of the problem.

4. Frost Blocking Visibility of Damage

You might think your screens are fine, but if they’re covered in frost most mornings, you’re probably not getting a clear look. Frost masks small rips, sagging mesh, or separation from the frame. Once things thaw, those issues will be much more obvious (and likely worse).

5. Screen Doors That Don’t Slide Smoothly Anymore

If your sliding screen door sticks or skips during winter, it’s not just the cold, it’s likely a buildup of grit, ice, or warped tracks. Left unchecked, that friction causes more damage to the door frame and rollers. Bonus: no one wants to deal with that when you’re trying to enjoy a sunny spring day in a few months.

Winter is actually a great time to get ahead of these issues, before you open everything up again. At Doctor Screen, we offer mobile screen repair and replacement all year long. Whether it’s a small fix or a full upgrade, we’ll make sure your screens are ready to go when warmer weather finally shows up.

Book your winter screen checkup and stop screen issues from flying under the radar.