We might not be feeling it just yet, but that warm weather is just around the corner, along with all those pesky insects that come with it. It doesn’t take long for bees and mosquitoes to start swarming our outdoor spaces, ruining whatever time we might have to enjoy the outdoors.

Today’s screens are much more innovative than they previously were. They’re made from durable mesh that can withstand a certain amount of pressure to avoid being stretched out or torn prematurely. This allows the mesh to remain tight and prevent even the smallest bugs from getting through. While steel may have been the material of choice back in the day, today’s modern screens are typically made from aluminum or vinyl-coated fiberglass, which are resistant to rusting and last a long time.

Aside from the price (fiberglass is more expensive), there is very little difference between the two. They both perform impeccably well at keeping insects out while allowing outdoor air in, and are easy to maintain and last for the long haul.

So then, how do you choose between the two?

Fiberglass Screens

The most popular screening material is vinyl-coated fiberglass. That’s because it doesn’t stain or corrode. However, it does tear and stretch more easily compared to aluminum. While conventional mesh is 18×16, there is also 18×14 available for porch enclosures, pool enclosures, and so on. There is also 20×20 mesh available for homeowners who are looking for an extremely tight weave that will keep out insects that are barely visible to the naked eye. However, the tighter the mesh, the more light and air will be blocked out.

There are also solar vinyl-coated fiberglass screens available that are specifically designed to cut down on UV rays that are allowed through. These can help to conserve a great deal of energy and provide plenty of shade on those sizzling hot summer days.

Standards sizes for fiberglass screening includes 30×60 inches, 36×60 inches, 36×84 inches, and 48×84 inches. If your openings are not of standard size, you will need the assistance of screening professionals to custom size and install your screens for you.

Aluminum Screens

Aluminum screening is metal mesh that is woven together on a loom, after which it is then given a finish. Aluminum screening fabric generally comes in black, gray, and aluminum. From the inside, black is the least noticeable, while dark gray complements painted window and frame systems quite well. Bright aluminum colours feature a clear coating that keeps the material somewhat shiny.

This type of screening is typically 18×16 mesh, which means that there are 18 horizontal wires and 16 vertical wires per square inch. It comes in rolls that are 7 or 25 feet long and between 24 to 48 inches wide.

Retractable Screens

These specialty screens roll or fold out of sight when they are not in use, and are spring-loaded to retract back into the window head. When needed, they easily slide down on side-mounted guides and lock in at the bottom. Not only are retractable screens available for windows, they’re available for doors as well.

Doctor Screen – Providing Homeowners with a Wide Variety of Screen Options

Whatever your specific needs may be for your home’s windows, Doctor Screen has the screen materials, innovative equipment and tools, and know-how to supply and install window screens for any size opening. We meticulously measure all our screens to ensure the perfect fit each and every time. And with our mobile screening trailers, we bring our service right to your front door! It doesn’t get any easier than that.

Get in touch with your local Doctor Screen distributor today!