Local Screen Shop with Walk-In Counter
Run a small shop making, repairing and selling window, door and patio screens to walk-in and contractor customers.
- $12k-50k
- Full-time
- Own premises
- Licence or permit needed
Estimates for a small start in the US, not guarantees.
What it is
A small retail and workshop unit with a front counter for walk-in repairs, custom screens and parts, and space to build screens. You might also offer sliding screen doors, patio and porch screen panels, and measuring visits.
Your first three steps
- Visit a few local hardware stores and screen shops to see their prices, then write a simple plan covering rent, equipment and the prices you need to charge
- Look for a small unit in a light-industrial or strip-mall area where zoning allows retail and light workshop use, and ask suppliers about trade accounts for mesh and frame stock
- Introduce yourself to window installers, contractors and property managers with sample screens and a trade price list
Who pays
Homeowners, landlords and property managers, contractors, window installers and small businesses.
How it makes money
Sales of new and re-screened frames, screen doors and parts, plus fees for measuring, installation and rush orders. Contractor accounts add repeat volume.
Skills that help
- Hands-on screen building and repair
- Customer service at a counter
- Basic stock control and pricing
Watch out for
- Check zoning, a local business license and any certificate of occupancy with your city or county before signing a lease
- Register for sales tax with your state, since you will sell taxable goods
- General liability and property insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire
- Check if your state requires a contractor license for installation work beyond simple repair
- Rent and stock tie up cash, and sales can dip outside the warm seasons
🔒 Full research report for US
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to open a screen shop?
Startup costs are typically around $12,000 to $50,000, depending on your rent and deposit, equipment, and opening stock. These are estimates. Rent and stock tie up cash, so plan for slower periods outside the warm seasons.
How much can a screen shop earn?
Monthly revenue is typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on your location, whether you serve contractors, and the services you add. This is an estimate, not profit. Plan for at least about 30 hours a week.
What licenses or rules apply to a screen shop in the US?
Check zoning, a local business license and any certificate of occupancy with your city or county before signing a lease. Register for sales tax with your state, and check whether installation work beyond simple repair needs a contractor license.
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