Picture this: It’s a beautiful Saturday evening in O’Fallon, and you’re ready to enjoy your patio. But within minutes, the setting sun creates blinding glare, the temperature feels unbearable, and mosquitoes start swarming. You’ve been thinking about motorized patio screens, but every time you search for pricing, you hit a wall of “contact us for a quote” pages that leave you frustrated.
If you’re a St. Louis area homeowner researching motorized retractable screens, you deserve honest answers about what they actually cost. At Shade Haven STL, we believe in transparency because informed customers make better decisions and end up happier with their outdoor living space investment.
As a local, family-owned business serving O’Fallon, Lake St. Louis, St. Charles, and surrounding communities for over 15 years, we’ve installed hundreds of motorized screen systems throughout the area. We know exactly what these screen installations cost and what drives pricing for motorized retractable screens in our market.
This guide breaks down real 2025 pricing for motorized patio screens in the St. Louis market and helps you understand the investment required to transform your outdoor space. Check out our Google Business Profile to see reviews from local homeowners whose outdoor living spaces we’ve enhanced.
Motorized Screen Cost in St. Louis
For most St. Louis area homeowners, professionally installed motorized retractable screens typically range from $2,800 to $8,500+ depending on screen size, features, and installation complexity.
Here’s the pricing breakdown:
- Single small screen (8′ x 8′): $2,800 – $3,800
- Single medium screen (10′ x 12′): $3,500 – $5,200
- Single large screen (14′ x 16′): $5,500 – $7,500
- Multiple screens for patio enclosure: $8,000 – $15,000+
- Premium motorized systems with automation: $10,000 – $20,000+
These prices include professional measurement, custom screen fabrication, installation, electrical integration, and warranty coverage. The cost of motorized screens varies based on several factors we’ll explain throughout this guide.
What Are Motorized Retractable Screens?
Motorized retractable screens are custom screen systems that deploy or retract the screen at the touch of a button, smartphone tap, or voice command. Unlike traditional fixed screens, these motorized screen systems retract completely into a discreet housing when not in use, giving you an unobstructed view and protecting the screen material from weather.
These screens are designed to enhance outdoor living spaces by solving several challenges St. Louis homeowners face:
Heat and Sun Control: St. Louis summers regularly hit 90°+ with intense sun. Quality motorized screens block up to 90% of solar heat and UV rays, making your outdoor space comfortable during peak summer months.
Insect Protection: Missouri mosquitoes and gnats can ruin outdoor enjoyment. Motorized retractable screens create a protective barrier, functioning as effective insect screens that let you enjoy outdoor dining without becoming bug bait.
Privacy and Wind Control: Whether you’re in a neighborhood with close-set homes or dealing with breezy conditions, motorized screens provide adjustable privacy and wind protection for your outdoor living space.
Smart Home Integration: Modern motorized retractable screens integrate with Alexa, Google Home, and other smart home systems, allowing you to automate your outdoor space based on time, temperature, or sun intensity.
Retractable screens offer flexibility that fixed screens cannot match. The screens are engineered to withstand outdoor conditions while providing the convenience of deploying or retracting the screen based on your needs. When considering a motorized screen for your patio, you’re investing in a solution that transforms unused outdoor space into functional living area.
Our motorized screen installation services focus on creating comfortable outdoor living spaces that St. Louis families actually use throughout the season.
Motorized Screen Cost Breakdown by Size
Screen size has the biggest impact on the cost of motorized screens. Larger screens require more screen material, more powerful motors, more robust mounting hardware, and additional installation time. Here’s what motorized retractable screens can vary in pricing based on dimensions:
Small Motorized Screens (8′ x 8′ to 10′ x 10′): $2,800 – $3,800
Small motorized screen installations work well for compact patios, single doorway openings, or narrow side areas needing insect screens. At this size, you get a single motorized retractable screen with a quality motor, mid-grade screen material, and standard controls. Installation for these screens typically takes 2-4 hours.
Medium Motorized Screens (10′ x 12′ to 12′ x 14′): $3,500 – $5,200
Medium retractable screens are the most common size we install throughout St. Charles County. These screens cover standard covered patios, deck enclosures, and screened porch conversions. The screens are designed with more robust motors to handle the additional screen material weight and wind load. Installation for medium motorized screens typically takes 3-5 hours per screen.
Large Motorized Screens (14′ x 16′ and larger): $5,500 – $7,500+
Large motorized retractable screens are ideal for expansive outdoor living spaces, full patio enclosures, or wide-span pergolas. At this size, screens are engineered to withstand significant wind stress and require commercial-grade motors. The screen material must be premium quality to handle the span, and installation becomes more complex, sometimes requiring two installers and 5-8 hours of work.
Multiple Screens for Full Enclosure: $8,000 – $20,000+
Most St. Louis outdoor space projects involve multiple motorized screens to enclose three or four sides of a patio:
- Three-screen patio enclosure: $8,000 – $12,000
- Four-screen full enclosure: $10,000 – $15,000
- Premium motorized systems with advanced automation: $12,000 – $20,000+
Multi-screen installations benefit from centralized control systems that operate all screens simultaneously. The screens can be easily controlled through a single interface, and investing in motorized screens for complete enclosure provides the most dramatic transformation of your outdoor living space.
Key Factors Affecting Motorized Screen Pricing
Understanding what influences the cost of motorized retractable screens helps you make informed decisions about your investment in outdoor living spaces:
1. Screen Dimensions and Configuration
Beyond basic size, the aspect ratio matters. A 16′ wide by 8′ tall screen experiences more wind stress than a 10′ by 10′ screen with similar square footage. Wider motorized screens require heavier-duty motors and reinforced mounting systems, which increases screen cost.
2. Motor Quality and Features
The motor is the heart of any motorized screen system. Motor quality for motorized retractable screens varies significantly:
Standard Motors ($300-500): Basic functionality with limited warranties and fewer automation features. These motors work but may be louder and have shorter lifespans.
Premium Motors ($800-1,200+): Top-tier motors with 10+ year warranties, whisper-quiet operation, advanced automation, and superior reliability. These motors are designed for daily use over 15-20+ year lifespans and typically include options to automate the screen deployment based on sun sensors or wind conditions.
At Shade Haven STL, we focus on quality motors that provide reliable performance for your motorized retractable screens investment.
3. Screen Material and Grade
The screen material you select dramatically impacts both performance and cost:
Standard Screen Material ($8-12 per sq ft): Basic insect screens with minimal sun blocking, adequate for bug protection but limited heat reduction.
Solar Screen Material ($12-18 per sq ft): Blocks 70-80% of solar heat and UV rays while maintaining visibility. This screen material resists fading and mildew, lasting 8-12 years.
Premium Screen Material ($18-25+ per sq ft): Blocks 85-95% of heat and UV, superior visibility, exceptional wind resistance, and 12-15+ year lifespan. These screens are constructed with high-quality materials that justify the higher upfront cost through longevity and performance.
For St. Louis’s intense summer sun, we recommend at least mid-grade solar screen material. The screens are custom-made to fit your exact openings, and quality screen material makes a noticeable difference in comfort.
4. Installation Complexity
Not all patio installations are equal. Installation factors such as screen size, mounting surface conditions, and electrical requirements affect pricing:
Simple Installation: Mounting to solid structure with nearby electrical outlet, level surface, straightforward access—minimal additional cost.
Moderate Complexity: Requires mounting reinforcement, electrical outlet installation, or working around obstacles—adds $300-800.
Complex Installation: Requires structural modifications, extensive electrical work, or custom mounting solutions—adds $800-2,000+.
The screens can be easily installed on most modern St. Louis patios, but older homes may require additional preparation work.
5. Smart Home Integration and Automation
Basic motorized retractable screens include remote controls, but modern systems offer much more:
Basic Controls (included): Remote control or wall switch to deploy or retract the screen manually.
Intermediate Automation ($200-500): Smartphone app control, scheduling, and integration with one smart home platform. This allows you to automate screen deployment based on time of day or manually control screens from anywhere.
Advanced Automation ($500-1,200+): Multi-platform integration, sun sensors that automate deployment based on UV intensity, wind sensors that automatically retract the screen during storms, and integration with whole-home systems. The ability to automate your outdoor space protection provides both convenience and screen longevity.
6. Number of Screens in Your Project
While multiple motorized screens increase total investment, the per-screen cost typically decreases:
- Single screen: Full per-screen pricing
- 2-3 screens: 10-15% savings per screen due to shared setup and centralized controls
- 4+ screens: 15-25% savings per screen from efficiency and bulk screen material pricing
If you’re planning to screen multiple sides of your patio, completing the full enclosure at once almost always costs less than phasing installation over multiple years.
7. Electrical Requirements
Motorized retractable screens require power. Electrical work for screen installation varies:
Existing Outlet Nearby: Minimal cost if weatherproof outlet exists within 6 feet of motor location.
New Outlet Installation ($200-500): Electrician runs new wiring to screen location.
Complex Electrical Work ($500-1,500+): Panel upgrades or extensive wiring for multiple motorized screens.
Most modern St. Louis patios have outdoor outlets, but verify electrical capacity for multiple motorized screen installations.
What’s Included in Professional Motorized Screen Installation
When you invest in professional motorized retractable screen installation with Shade Haven STL, here’s what’s included:
Complimentary In-Home Consultation: We assess your outdoor space, discuss your goals, take precise measurements, and explain options for your motorized screen project. This educational consultation helps you understand how screens are designed to enhance outdoor living spaces.
Custom Design and Material Selection: Based on your patio dimensions, sun exposure, and aesthetic preferences, we design motorized screens specifically for your outdoor space. We help you select screen material that balances performance and appearance.
Precision Fabrication: Your motorized retractable screens are custom-made to fit your exact openings—not generic sizes. The screens are engineered to withstand your specific conditions and provide proper operation.
Professional Installation: Our experienced installers handle all mounting, motor installation, screen material tensioning, and system testing. We protect your property during installation and ensure the integrity of the screens through proper mounting techniques.
Electrical Integration: We coordinate electrical work and ensure your motorized screens are properly powered and safely wired.
Smart Home Setup: If you’re adding automation, we handle configuration and test all features to ensure the screens can be easily controlled through your preferred method.
Operation Training: We demonstrate how to deploy or retract the screen, explain maintenance for screen material, and answer questions about your new motorized retractable screens.
Warranty Coverage: Quality motors include manufacturer warranties, and our installation workmanship is warranted as well, protecting your investment in outdoor living space enhancement.
Professional Installation vs. DIY: Real Cost Comparison
Some homeowners consider DIY motorized screen installation to reduce costs. Here’s an honest comparison:
DIY Costs for Motorized Screens
- Screen kit: $1,200 – $3,500 (varies by size and quality)
- Tools you may need: $200 – $500
- Additional hardware: $50 – $200
- Electrical supplies: $50 – $150
- Total DIY investment: $1,500 – $4,350
Professional Motorized Screen Installation
- Complete installed system: $2,800 – $7,500 (depending on screen size and features)
- Premium over DIY: $1,300 – $3,150
Hidden DIY Costs
Your Time: Plan on 8-16 hours for first-time DIY motorized screen installation. What’s your time worth?
Mistakes: Incorrect measurements, improper mounting, or screen material tension issues can require replacement parts. Motorized retractable screens can vary in complexity, and occasional issues with the screen retracting or deploying properly often stem from installation errors.
No Installation Warranty: Professional installation includes workmanship warranties protecting your investment.
Suboptimal Performance: Without experience, screens may work but not perform optimally. The screens are designed to withstand wind and weather, but improper installation compromises this engineering.
Why Most Homeowners Choose Professional Installation
For most St. Louis homeowners, professional motorized screen installation provides:
- Guaranteed results—screens work properly from day one
- Time savings—your weekend stays free for enjoying your outdoor space
- Expert guidance—selecting the right screen material and motor for your situation
- Warranty protection—both product and installation covered
- Long-term support—local company available when you need service
The cost of motorized retractable screen installation through professionals typically justifies itself through reliability and performance. Investing in motorized screens with proper installation ensures your outdoor living space enhancement delivers value for 15-20+ years.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond base screen cost, consider these potential additional expenses:
Electrical Work ($0 – $1,500): New outlet installation or panel upgrades if needed for your motorized screen project.
Wind Sensors ($150 – $400 per screen): Automatically retract the screen when wind speeds reach unsafe levels. Particularly valuable for large motorized screens in exposed locations.
Extended Warranties ($200 – $500): Optional coverage beyond standard manufacturer warranties for added peace of mind on your motorized retractable screens investment.
Maintenance ($0 – $200 annually): Motorized screens require minimal maintenance—occasional screen material cleaning and annual motor inspection. Most homeowners handle this themselves, though professional cleaning services are available.
St. Louis-Specific Considerations
Living in the St. Louis area brings specific factors influencing motorized screen value:
Climate Impact on Screen Selection
Hot, Humid Summers: St. Louis summer conditions make solar screen material particularly valuable. The difference in outdoor space comfort between standard and premium screen material is dramatic when temperatures hit 95° with high humidity.
Occasional Severe Weather: Spring and summer storms make wind sensors a wise addition, especially for larger motorized screens. Automatic retraction protects your investment.
Year-Round Use: Quality screen material that resists mildew and handles temperature fluctuations ensures your motorized retractable screens maintain integrity through all seasons.
Popular Screen Applications
Based on hundreds of local installations, here are common motorized screen applications we see:
Covered Patios (60% of projects): Most popular application, typically involving 2-4 screens to create a comfortable outdoor living space enclosure.
Deck Installations (20% of projects): Particularly popular for elevated decks where insect screens and sun control make the outdoor space more usable.
Screened Porch Conversions (10% of projects): Replacing old fixed screens with motorized retractable screens that offer flexibility.
Pergola Side Panels (10% of projects): Adding retractable screens to pergola sides for flexible sun control and privacy in your outdoor space.
Understanding these common applications helps guide you toward motorized screen solutions that work well in our local market.
Understanding Motorized Screen Investment
Here are key takeaways about the cost of motorized retractable screens in St. Louis:
Typical Investment: Most homeowners invest $2,800-8,500 for single screens, or $8,000-15,000+ for multi-screen patio enclosures. Screen cost varies based on size, features, and installation complexity.
Primary Cost Drivers: Screen dimensions, motor quality, screen material grade, installation requirements, automation features, and number of screens have the biggest impact on pricing for motorized retractable screens.
Value Over Price: The lowest screen cost rarely delivers the best value. Quality motors, premium screen material, professional installation, and comprehensive warranties matter significantly for long-term satisfaction with your outdoor living space enhancement.
Professional Installation Worth It: For most homeowners, professional motorized screen installation justifies the investment through guaranteed results, proper screen material tensioning, warranty coverage, and ongoing support.
St. Louis Climate Matters: Our hot, humid summers make solar screen material upgrades particularly valuable. The screens are engineered to withstand our weather conditions when properly selected and installed.
Long-Term Investment: Quality motorized retractable screens last 15-20+ years, increase home value, and dramatically improve outdoor space comfort. Retractable screens are a premium solution that provides genuine long-term value rather than just an expense.
Local Expertise Counts: Working with an established local company ensures screens are custom-made to fit your space properly, screens are designed to withstand local weather, and you have ongoing support for your outdoor living space investment.
At Shade Haven STL, we believe informed customers make better decisions about investing in motorized screens. That’s why we’re committed to transparency about screen pricing and honest guidance about what makes sense for your specific outdoor space.
Ready to Transform Your St. Louis Outdoor Living Space?
Now that you understand motorized screen costs and what drives pricing for motorized retractable screens, you’re equipped to make an informed decision about whether this investment makes sense for enhancing your outdoor living spaces.
If you’re ready to explore how motorized screens could transform your patio into a comfortable, usable outdoor space, we’d love to help.
Here’s what happens next:
Schedule Your Free Consultation: We’ll visit your home to discuss how screens are designed to enhance outdoor living spaces for your specific situation.
Get Precise Measurements: We’ll assess your outdoor space and take exact measurements for custom motorized retractable screens.
Receive Detailed Pricing: You’ll get clear, written pricing explaining exactly what’s included in your motorized screen installation.
Make an Informed Decision: Take time to review options and decide what makes sense for your outdoor living space and budget.
Enjoy Professional Installation: We’ll handle everything from custom screen fabrication to installation, ensuring screens can be easily operated and will enhance your outdoor space for years to come.
Get Ongoing Support: We’re here for questions and service as your local partner for outdoor living space solutions.
Have questions about motorized screen cost or installation? Call or email—we’re happy to answer questions even if you’re still researching. We’d rather you make an informed decision about investing in motorized retractable screens than rush into anything.
Your outdoor space has incredible potential. Let’s explore how motorized screens can help you unlock it.