How Do I Choose Screens?

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Window screens are a must for your house as they allow fresh air to enter the house while preventing bugs from flying in. But there are many options for window screens, so we’ve put together a window screen buying guide to help you choose the perfect window screen for your home.

Window Screen

Window Screening Materials

Window screens are available in a variety of materials, mesh sizes, and colors. There are also many types of screens on the market that are specifically designed to improve the quality of life in your home. The mesh wire commonly found in window screens is usually made of one of the following materials, each with its own unique benefits.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass window screen mesh is the most popular and economical type of screen. Mesh screens made of fiberglass are known for their flexibility, making them difficult to dent. Choose a heavy-duty fiberglass mesh made from thicker fiberglass filaments than traditional fiberglass mesh to add strength to the screen. You can also choose a fiberglass screen with an extra-fine mesh size to keep ultra-small insects out of your home.

Aluminum

Aluminum screens are stronger and more durable than fiberglass screens. Unlike fiberglass screens, tough aluminum screens will not sag or rust over time. However, aluminum screens will dent when subjected to impact.

Copper

Known primarily for its use as an insect screen, copper screens can add great appeal to your home. Copper screens are also very durable and very resistant to corrosion. When exposed to elements that can cause other metals to corrode, such as salt spray, copper does not produce damage, but naturally forms a protective patina instead of corroding. Copper’s popularity is booming in coastal areas.

Polyester Fiber

More durable than fiberglass, the polyester mesh is known for its resistance to tearing. Polyester is a popular choice for pet owners who are concerned about furry little ones scratching and damaging their screens.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is considered to be one of the toughest materials used in screening. It is the most popular choice in high-traffic areas where security is important.

The functionality of Window Screens

When considering which window screen is most appropriate, it is important to evaluate the primary function or functions you need most. Motivations for installing screens include: maintaining airflow and transparency, keeping pests out, security, etc. Each type of screen has a different primary function, so it is important to understand the function of each type and mesh size before settling on a screen, which you can do by consulting with the screen manufacturer.

Window Screen Frame

Once you have determined the primary purpose of your window screen, it is time to consider the frame in which your screen will be placed. Sash frames are usually made of aluminum, wood, or steel.

Wooden sash frames are attractive, relatively durable, and can complement wood-framed windows well, although they do require occasional maintenance to keep them in good condition.

Aluminum and steel sash frames are more popular than wood frames because they are both strong, durable metals that do not require routine maintenance. When looking for frames that provide extra home security, choose frames made of large aluminum or steel, which are more difficult to pry open than traditional screen frames. Burglar-proof window frames often come with special screens that are difficult to break with brute force.

The width and thickness of the frame may depend on the screen you choose. For example, heavy-duty security screens require wider, larger frames.

So, are you ready to buy window screens? Feel free to contact us for a free quote.