Essential Home Screens: Types & Pitfalls to Avoid

Whether you are outfitting your home for increased energy efficiency or exploring window treatment options to enliven the decor, there is a wide range of screens available for every imaginable purpose. 

For more information, please visit Aluminium Window Screens.

While some window screens offer protection from insects and debris, others may be designed to provide insulation and block harmful UV rays&#;which can reduce electricity costs and add years of service life. 

With so many screen types available on the market today, it's important to understand which are best suited for our needs that will stand up to wear and tear while also providing an optimal level of protection. 

In this blog post, we'll explore four types of screens every homeowner should know about&#;what they should avoid to make informed decisions when shopping around. Read on!

1. Window Screens &#; Pros and Cons

Window screens are a ubiquitous feature in homes, offering a mix of benefits and drawbacks that homeowners should consider.

On the positive side, window screens serve as a barrier against bugs, allowing you to keep your windows open without worrying about insects entering your home.

They also provide an additional layer of privacy, making it harder for people outside to see into your house. Moreover, certain types of screens can reduce sunlight and UV rays, which can keep your house cooler and protect your furnishings from sun damage.

However, window screens are not without their downsides. They can obstruct your view and reduce the amount of natural light that enters your home. Cleaning screens can be a cumbersome task, as they tend to collect dust and grime over time.

Additionally, they can be easily damaged by pets or by harsh weather conditions, requiring frequent replacements or repairs. Therefore, when choosing window screens, it's crucial to weigh these pros and cons to find the best fit for your needs.

2. Solar Screens &#; Protect Your Home from UV Rays

Solar screens are an excellent addition for homeowners looking to bolster both energy efficiency and privacy. These screens are crafted from specially designed solar screen fabric that absorbs and reflects a significant portion of the sun&#;s heat and glare before it reaches your window glass. 

It means during the sweltering summer days, your home stays cooler without overworking your air conditioning system. Consequently, you'll notice a significant reduction in your energy bills.

Apart from their energy-saving benefits, solar screens are also highly effective in blocking harmful UV rays which can fade and damage your interiors. They act as a protective layer, shielding your furniture, carpets, and art from sun damage. 

Additionally, these screens offer enhanced privacy during daylight hours, making it difficult for people outside to see into your home, while maintaining your outside view.

Despite their numerous benefits, homeowners should also be aware of potential drawbacks. Solar screens can darken the rooms more than other screen types, and while they block UV rays, they don't provide much insulation during colder months. It's important to consider these factors when deciding if solar screens are the right choice for your home.

3. Security Screens &#; Increase Safety in Your Home

Security screens represent an outstanding choice for homeowners who prioritize safety. Crafted from superior strength metals such as stainless steel or aluminum, these screens go beyond the standard function of keeping pests out. They add an extra level of security, deterring potential intruders and ensuring that your windows cannot be easily breached.

The thick, robust mesh of security screens not only withstands high-impact forces but also resists cutting and tampering. Many are equipped with robust locking systems for added protection. They offer the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is well-protected while allowing fresh air and natural light to enter.

However, it's worth noting that security screens are typically more expensive than other screen types due to their robust construction and added features. Also, while they offer increased safety, their design may not be as aesthetically pleasing as other screen options. Therefore, homeowners should balance the need for security with other factors such as budget and aesthetic preferences when considering security screens.

4. Insect Screens &#; Keeping Bugs Away From Your Home

Insect screens, also known as bug screens or fly screens, are an essential type of screen that most homeowners should consider. Their primary function is to keep insects, leaves, debris, and other unwanted elements out while allowing fresh air into your home. 

Constructed from a variety of materials, including aluminum, fiberglass, or polyester, these screens are fitted into a window or door frame and are often removable for easy cleaning.

Not only do they protect you from annoying flies and mosquitoes, but they also prevent larger pests such as birds and rodents from entering your home. It can be particularly beneficial in areas prone to insect-borne diseases or where pests are a common issue.

However, insect screens do come with a few drawbacks. While they are generally inexpensive, they can be easily damaged by pets or children, and cheap screens may not provide a long-lasting solution. 

Also, they do not offer any additional benefits such as UV protection or increased security. Despite these cons, the simplicity and effectiveness of insect screens make them a worthwhile consideration for any homeowner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Screening for Your Home

When it comes to installing screens for your home, there are a few common pitfalls that homeowners should strive to avoid.

• Incorrect Measurements:

  One of the most common mistakes is not taking accurate measurements before purchasing or installing screens. It can result in improper fit and gaps that allow insects and debris to enter or an oversized screen that can't be installed without modifications. Always double-check your measurements to ensure a proper fit.

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  Choosing the Wrong Material:

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  Different screen materials serve different purposes. For example, aluminum is durable and long-lasting but it may corrode in coastal areas. Fiberglass is versatile and cost-effective but can be damaged by direct sunlight over time. Ensure you choose the right material for your specific needs and environmental conditions.

• Neglecting Maintenance:

  Screens need regular cleaning and maintenance to function effectively and prolong their lifespan. Neglecting this can lead to dirt and grime build-up, affecting both the aesthetics and functionality of the screens.

• Ignoring Local Weather Conditions:

  If your area is prone to harsh weather conditions like strong winds, hail, or heavy snowfall, you'll need screens that can withstand these conditions. Ignoring local weather patterns can lead to frequent screen damage and replacements.

• Overlooking Installation Instructions:

  Many homeowners attempt DIY installation without thoroughly reading and understanding the installation instructions, leading to improperly installed screens that don't perform optimally. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions or hire a professional for installation.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your screens serve their intended purpose and provide a lasting solution to your screening needs.

Whether you are looking to protect your home from UV rays, increase its security, or keep unwanted bugs out of the house, consider installing window screens in your home. It's an affordable way to enjoy the outdoors without enduring any of the negative side effects. 

About Us

Are you looking for a reputable and experienced contractor to install screens on your property in Florida? Look no further than The Heights Aluminium, your one-stop solution for all aluminum installation needs.&#;

From keeping bugs out to letting fresh air in, window screens are a must-have for any savvy homeowner. But with so many new options in window screen meshes, it can feel a little overwhelming&#;should you choose polyester or copper; which is better for security?

For all your questions, we put together this window screen buying guide to help you prioritize your needs and choose the perfect house window screens for you and your humble abode.

We&#;ve broken down the guide into the following topics:

• Popular Screen Materials
• Key Functions of Window Screens
• Window Screen Frames

Let&#;s dive into everything you need to know about the &#;screen scene.&#;

Popular Window Screen Materials

The mesh-like wire commonly found in window screens is typically made from one of the following materials, each offering their own unique set of upsides:

• Fiberglass &#; Mesh screens constructed of fiberglass are known for their flexibility, which gives them a resistance to dents and creasing. They also offer excellent airflow and visibility and are widely regarded as the most popular choice.

• Polyester &#; More durable than fiberglass, polyester mesh is known for being tear-resistant. Polyester is a popular choice among pet owners who worry about their furry little friends clawing and destroying their window screens.

• Aluminum &#; Screens constructed of aluminum have a variety of upsides, the most important being their reputation for not sagging or rusting. This aluminum window screen variety also provides top-tier airflow.

• Stainless Steel &#; Stainless steel is known as one of the toughest materials used in the screen mesh. In a high-traffic area where safety is a concern, this is a favorite choice.

• Copper &#; Known primarily for its use as an insect screen, copper&#;s popularity is booming along coastal areas. It&#;s also quite popular for its distinct color, offering home designers a unique twist to incorporate into their plans.

Each material comes with its own advantages, some bolstering the most sought-after window screen functions. To that end, let&#;s dive into those functions, so you can isolate your priorities and choose the screen mesh for your home.

Key Functions of Window Screens

When deliberating which window screen is the best fit, it&#;s important to assess the main function, or functions, you need most. Do you live in a humid area where heat is often trapped indoors? Perhaps you should focus on airflow. Need that extra layer of security to sleep comfortably at night? There are meshes built for you.

Conventional motives homeowners have for installing window screens include:

• Airflow
• Transparency
• Pest Control
• Security
• Energy Savings

Whether you have one central worry or a combination of two or more concerns, this guide will help you better articulate your needs when it comes time to shop for window screens.

Airflow

Let&#;s first discuss the most common factor for buying windows screens: fresh air.

If taking in breezes on cool summer nights is your priority&#;while still eliminating the risk of attracting bugs, debris, or even intruders&#;homeowners should consider the limits window screens can place on airflow.

According to a study by the National Institute of Health, screens can decrease airflow anywhere from 16% to 77%. Nevertheless, that air wouldn&#;t be coursing through your home at all if these windows were shut.

To that end, if the airflow is your primary concern, keep these basics in mind while you shop:

• Tighter mesh weaves, common in insect screens, will decrease airflow.
• Grey fiberglass mesh provides the best airflow

Transparency

Should you want to indulge in a breeze and open up your windows, but still keep some semblance of privacy, you might want to prioritize the transparency factor of the window screen. Nowadays, screens range in their mesh wire thickness, allowing more (or less) sunlight through&#;meaning passersby can see more (or less) of what&#;s inside your home.

Some options to consider for transparency are:

• One-Way Screens &#; One-way screens, also known as a limited visibility mesh screen, let in sunlight almost like a one-way mirror. In other words, if you&#;re inside your home looking out, you&#;ll have decent visibility. However, if you&#;re outside your home looking in, you&#;ll have very limited visibility. In this way, you can still let in airflow and view the world outside without having to give up your privacy.

• High-Visibility Screens &#; One of the most impressive new screen features is invisibility. High-visibility screens, for example, are screens with such thin wiring that you barely notice they exist at all. Phifer, a manufacturer of new high-visibility screens, describes this option as giving &#;the look and feel of being outdoors while being indoors.&#;

Pest Control

Insects are known for disrupting a beautiful day outdoors. But when those pests ruin a beautiful day indoors&#;well, then it feels personal. The solution? A window insect screen geared toward pest control.

That said, nuisance isn&#;t the only reason to consider pest control screens. In fact, some pests, like mosquitoes, mice, and rats, are known to carry diseases. Thus, a window screen isn&#;t just for comfort, it&#;s also for safety. There&#;s a reason why pest control is one of the most commonly cited reasons for installing window screens.

The good news is, they work. Properly installed window screens allow homeowners to enjoy the breezy benefits of an open window while blocking out those creepy critters.

If you&#;ve struggled with any of the following pests in your home, consider a polyester-based or fiberglass screen:

• Houseflies
• Birds
• Mice
• Rats
• Horse-Flies
• Cockroaches
• Centipedes
• Crickets

The added strength of polyester-based screens will help with the larger pests; the tightly interlaced fiberglass mesh will help with the smaller ones.

Tip: If you&#;re dealing with the smallest of pests&#;think gnats and biting midges&#;you&#;ll want to consider 20 x 20 fiberglass mesh. While the tightness of this screen will reduce the airflow and sunlight coming through, it will be worth not having to deal with no-see-ums.

Security

In the United States, there are an estimated 3.7 million household burglaries each year. Oftentimes, simply having window screens works as an added roadblock and can impede burglars. If you reside in a high-traffic area, security window screens can help to alleviate the risk.

A security screen is specifically designed to impede forced entry. These mesh and see-through fabrics are typically made from woven stainless steel threads attached to a metal screen frame using an interlocking system of clamps.

The end result is a heavy-duty screen that denies access to burglars, while still providing the comforts of standard window screens.

This evolution of window screens as a centerpiece of home safety is showing no signs of slowing down, either. Here are some new developments worth keeping an eye on:

• Child-Safety Screens &#; Many of the same technological advancements used to prevent forced entry by intruders also work to prevent falls caused by children leaning or pressing onto window screens.

• Fire Resistant Screens &#; Finer metal screens are being adopted in wildfire-prone areas. They have been proven successful in helping windows handle the excessive heat from nearby fires and blocking small embers from entering the home.

Energy Savings

What hasn&#;t been mentioned up until now is the other major benefit to installing window screens on your home&#;they can save you money. By reducing the amount of sunlight flooding into your home in the summer months, you can dramatically reduce the need for air conditioning and lower your utility bills.

If this is your priority, then a solar screen is your golden ticket. Solar window screens can block up to 90% of the sun&#;s rays.

But what if you live in a colder climate and you want to trap heat in? Solar screens placed on the inside of windows (rather than on the outside) are perfect for keeping heat in.

Here&#;s how solar screens&#; multifunctionality meet a variety of needs:

• Screen on the Inside of a Window &#; Ideal for cold climates. The interior set screen will absorb the sunlight, trapping the warmth inside your home where you need it.

• Screen Tacked on Outside of a Window &#; In hot climates, a solar screen tacked on the outside of a window will trap heat before it enters your home, and reduce the amount of sunlight coming in.

• Screen Hung Outside of a Window with a Gap &#; For a maximum cooling option, place a gap between the outside screen and the window. This separates the heat captured in the screen from the glass itself. The cooling effects work particularly well in breezy environments.

Window Screen Frames

Once you settle on the central purpose for your window screen, it&#;s finally time to think about the frame your screens will rest in. While there is an aesthetic aspect to frame selection, a large part of the decision comes down to which type of frame function you prefer.

Here are few frame functions to consider:

• Outswing window screens
• Fixed screens for windows
• Sliding window screens

The width and thickness of your frame will likely be dictated by your screen choice. For instance, a heavy-duty security screen will require a broader, more sizable frame.

Tip: Retractable window screens are trending. Unlike traditional window screens, the retractable version can be slid, and sometimes even rolled, away from the window when not in use.

Restoring, Repairing, and Replacing Window Screens: Glass Guru

With a better understanding of the functionality and types of window screens available, you might be ready to restore, repair, or replace yours. If you need help from a local specialist with window screen repair or screen replacement, consider the experts at the Glass Guru. We can help you navigate everything from the cost of various window screen combinations to a professional installation.

Sources:

Bureau of Justice Statistics. National Crime Victimization Survey. https://www.bjs.gov/content/pub/ascii/vdhb.txt

National Institute of Health. Wind Tunnel Analysis of Air Flow Through Insect Screens. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC/

The Glass Guru. Window Screens. https://www.theglassguru.com/services/screens/window-screens/

Lansing Housing Products. Child Safety Screens. https://www.lansinghp.net/child-safety-screens/

Phifer. High Visibility Screens.
https://www.phifer.com/screening/features/visibility/

Every Solar Thing. Solar Screens. https://www.everysolarthing.com/blog/solar-screens/

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