How to Choose an Insect Screen

Screen is available in a variety of materials, but aluminum and fiberglass are by far the most common. Specialty screening includes extra-heavy pet-resistant screen; screen that blocks as much as 90% of solar-heat gain; and noncorroding bronze, monel (an alloy of nickel and copper), or stainless steel for coastal installations. Prices range from about 17¢ per sq. ft. for fiberglass to as much as $5 per sq. ft. for monel.

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Standard door and window screen has a mesh size of 18×16, indicating that there are 18 strands per inch in one direction and 16 in the other. This screen can be used on a porch, but a mesh size of 18×14 uses a slightly larger-diameter wire, is stronger, and spans larger openings. If your area is plagued by tiny biting insects (sometimes called “no-see-ums” by their victims), 20×20 mesh may be a better choice.

Fiberglass

Standard fiberglass insect screen is made from vinyl-coated fiberglass threads in charcoal and silver gray. It won’t crease like aluminum screening, but it’s more opaque. It’s also more flexible and, therefore, easier to install in an aluminum frame with a spline or in one of the proprietary screen-framing systems.

Some sun-control and pet screening is made from vinyl-coated polyester, which is stronger and heavier than fiberglass.

Standard fiberglass Sun control Pet screening

Standard fiberglass screen comes in widths up to 84 in. and costs about 17¢ per sq. ft. Pet screening is about 60¢ per sq. ft., and Phifer’s Super Solar screen (205-345-2120; www.phifer.com), in charcoal and silver gray, costs $1.53 per sq. ft.

Metal

Available in bright, charcoal, and black finishes, aluminum screening is the least visible to the eye. Aluminum, however, dents and creases fairly easily, and it can oxidize in coastal areas. It’s available in widths up to 72 in. and costs about 26¢ per sq. ft.

Probably the most common of the high-performance alloy screens, bronze won’t readily oxidize in salty air along the coast. It turns from a bright, coppery color to a dark brown, or even green, with age. It’s available in widths up to 60 in. and costs about $1.10 per sq. ft.

Stainless steel and monel stand up extremely well to salty air, but their durability comes at a cost-anywhere from $2.25 to $5 per sq. ft., depending on weave and quantity.

Save time with screening systems

If you’re looking for something beyond the stretch-and-staple approach of installing screen, there are several alternatives.

Custom panels

 

Buying premade panels of wood or aluminum, which are installed against stops applied to framed openings, is faster than installing screen yourself, and the panels can be removed and rescreened individually if they become damaged. Storm panels can be substituted for screen to extend the use of a porch into cooler weather. Connecticut Screen Works Inc. (www.connscreen.com; 203-741-0859) is one such supplier. It has made panels as large as 9 ft. by 18 ft., but the company recommends that buyers limit the maximum size to 48 in. wide by 80 in. tall. Prices for a basic panel with aluminum screen start between $50 and $75 per running foot, which includes a screen door and mounting hardware for the panels.

Proprietary track systems

At least two companies manufacture track that is attached to the framing and holds the screen tightly in place. Both types work best with fiberglass screen, although you can use aluminum screen. These systems make screen repair a snap.

ScreenEze
800-884-6697; www.screeneze.com

The screen is tightened as a piece of vinyl trim is snapped over an aluminum extrusion mounted to the framing. No splines are used. To replace a piece of torn screen, pull off the trim, cut a new piece of screen, and reinstall the trim. The track and cap retail for about $2 per ft.

Screen Tight
800-768-7325; www.screentight.com

A plastic extrusion is attached to the framed openings, and the screen is held in place with a spline and capped with a separate extrusion. If you get the hang of using the spline tool, replacing damaged screen is relatively simple. An 8-ft.-long section of track and cap is about $7.50.

Read the complete article…
In Search of the Perfect Screened Porch
Make the right design choices, and you’ll have an outdoor room you can enjoy without battling the bugs
by Scott Gibson

Window screens may not be a feature in your house that has caught your attention—unless they’re a source of annoyance. Screens tend to be considered not as important for new homeowners, but choosing the right window screen material for your space can enhance your environment.

During the warmer seasons, screens make it possible for us to open the windows and welcome in the summer breeze. The right window screen material for a given room can invite in more natural light, defend against intruding pests, and cycle in the fresh air. 

But how do you know which type of material is best suited for your windows?

Here are a few factors to consider when choosing your window screen material. 

Choosing the Right Window Screen Material

Before you start purchasing your new window screens, you need to survey the space they’re going to inhabit. Not every material is compatible with every environment. Your screens may be put through wear and tear you aren’t anticipating, which can increase the likelihood of replacing them faster. 

Are you looking for increased natural airflow in your space? Then proper ventilation is a factor you should value in your screen material. There are plenty of insect screens that offer larger mesh sizes without having to sacrifice protection from pests. Ventilation is an essential factor if you are looking for porch screens that act as a protective shield to outside disturbances while still allowing sunlight and fresh air to filter through. 

Where are you located? Screens are not a one-size-fits-all product. There are different material types, and some might not be compatible with the climate you are in. If you are in a coastal climate, require water and rust-resistant materials. On the other hand, if you live in a windy climate that experiences flying debris, Tuff screens could be a better option for their durability. 

Do you value expansive views and outward visibility? Maybe you have indoor plants that need a lot of sunlight. Transparency in your window screens is a factor that can be overlooked. If you are looking to let in more natural light and reduce the visual barrier between your indoor and outdoor space, look for materials that have high transparency. 

The most important part of choosing your window screens is the style and material you will use. Keeping the prior factors in mind, you will choose which material best suits your location and intended use for your screen material. 

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Fiberglass Screen 

Fiberglass is perhaps one of the most common materials used in window screens. 

Fiberglass screens are commonly used in residential and commercial properties because it is lightweight and does not corrode or rust. Fiberglass is also a very versatile material and can be sized for various projects. It is proficient at keeping bugs out while allowing air and natural sunlight to flow into a room. Unlike aluminum, fiberglass will become flat again if bent or dented. Fiberglass screens are an affordable option for replacement window screens.

On the other hand, fiberglass is not the most durable window screen material. It will stretch over time, needing to be replaced more often than aluminum. It is also more prone to tearing. 

Fiberglass can also be used for other projects such as pool cages and enclosures.  

Pet Resistant Screens/Tuff Screens

Everyone loves their pets. No one loves their pets destroying their screens. These heavy-duty pet-resistant screens designed to put up with the rough treatment your pet may dish out from time to time. The size of your pet and the damage that he or she causes will determine the best screen to fit your needs. Animal resistant screens give everyone a sense of ease knowing they will not have to replace screens every time one of their furry friends gets a little too rough or excited when they see you out the window.

The three most popular types of pet-resistant screens are Pet Screens, Tuff Screens, and Super Screens. 

Other premier pet products include quality heavy-duty dog doors and cat doors, and screen guards that are a barrier between your pets and your screens.

 

Solar Screening

Are you looking to limit the amount of sunlight your windows let in? Consider using solar screens for your space. 

Solar screens are perfect for windows that attract a lot of heat and sunlight. Their dark exterior blocks out the heat of the sun, absorbs excess heat, and provides additional privacy. Solar screening is an excellent option for cutting down air conditioning costs and protecting valuable furniture from fading with sun exposure. 

This screen material reduces natural light by 30-40%, which can be harmful to indoor plants or animals that enjoy the sunlight. Although they are more pricey than your typical fiberglass screens, they offer incredible benefits to the home. 

If you have west-facing windows that struggle against the beating sun, or your air conditioning bill is too high, solar screens are a great solution. They are mainly used on patios, porches, pool decks, and in warm climates.

Explore some solar screen options, including various colors and styles.

Coated Polyester

For any specialty screens that need to be reinforced with extra strength, coated polyester screens are the best choice. 

Coated polyester acts as a protective barrier not only to insects and debris, but against heavy objects as well. If you have issues with your pets tearing apart your current sliding screen doors, coated polyester acts as a tough pet screen replacement. It is also a great material to use in cold climates. The material repels moisture so it can’t be damaged by freezing temperatures. 

This screen material is more expensive than your standard fiberglass, but it is not replaced as quickly. Coated polyester is commonly used in sliding screen doors, low windows, and cold locations. 

Before purchasing your replacement window screens, keep in mind the necessary factors that will enhance your space. Choosing the wrong screen material could mean spending more money on repairs or replacements and not enjoying the atmosphere. But if you take your time to consider your window screen material options, you can transform your space and invite in your optimal climate. 

Common uses for coated polyester screens include:

Security Screens

Golf Ball Protection Screens

Animal and Pet Resistant Screens

The Screenmobile Difference

Screenmobile Service Technicians are courteous and always provide a professional experience. We understand that each customer has different needs when providing a service. We tailor our services to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

Get a free estimate and get started with your home improvement project.

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