What makes better window shades: fiberglass or polyester?
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This question is getting a lot more attention as companies that sell mainly shades with polyester fabric are trying to push the narrative that fiberglass is inferior.
That narrative is false. Each fabric has its advantages and uses, which is why Draper makes both fiberglass and polyester window shades.
While it is true that polyester core yarns have a higher strength rating than fiberglass, it is also true that fiberglass is, pound for pound, several times stronger than steel. So, both polyester and fiberglass fabrics are more than strong enough for window shade applications, but fiberglass actually has a few advantages.
One advantage fiberglass has over polyester is its dimensional stability, especially under heat. Fiberglass has a much higher melting point than polyester, and is unaffected by the high temperatures that are found between the shade and the window glass. Polyester, on the other hand, can lose its dimensional stability and stretch under high temperatures.
Because fiberglass yarn has traditionally been thinner, those shade fabrics have been touted as having better glare control, improved view-through characteristics, and more uniform coating ability. The big payoff for thinner yarn, however, is in the weight of the material. Larger shades can be made because the diameter of the bundle is not as great. In addition, fewer materials go into the manufacturing of the operating mechanism, fascia, and other hardware, saving material cost and resources. The smaller product and hardware also presents a cleaner slimmer profile at the window. In recent years, thinner polyester yarns have been developed, so these advantages are no longer exclusive to fiberglass fabrics; as a general rule, however, fiberglass fabrics are thinner.
Fiberglass fabrics can be more susceptible to fraying in the manufacturing process. The ultrasonic technology used by Draper to cut shade fabrics creates enough heat to make a clean, non-frayed edge on polyester shade fabrics, capitalizing on polyester&#;s greater sensitivity to heat. Draper&#;s advanced cutting methods also reduce the likelihood that fiberglass will fray. If fraying does occur, scissors can be used to trim the fabric. Because both fiberglass and polyester core yarns are white, fraying is more visible on dark colors.
Draper also offers many options for environmentally-friendly shade fabrics. As in other areas, both polyester and fiberglass offer options for those concerned with using the &#;greenest&#; materials available.
Several of Draper&#;s polyester fabrics are made with non-PVC coatings, and Draper&#;s GreenScreen Revive polyester fabric is Cradle to Cradle Certified (CM) Silver by MBDC, indicating that it meets or exceeds a rigorous and holistic five-criteria standard for environmental impact. These criteria include material health, material re-utilization, energy, water, and social responsibility. Environmental benefits are not exclusive to polyester, however. Both polyester and fiberglass fabrics offered by Draper are GreenGuard Gold certified for low chemical emissions.
For more information on Draper&#;s impressive line of window shades using fabrics made from fiberglass, polyester, and other materials, click here.
Fiberglass screen material has long been a common choice for porches because it&#;s less expensive than metal screen. It&#;s also easier to install because of its flexibility and doesn&#;t crease or dent like metal screen mesh is prone to do. Some styles of fiberglass screen are available in roll widths up to 108&#; wide. The major downside to fiberglass screen materials is that it is not very resistant to abuse, will breakdown over time based upon UV exposure, and it can be damaged with improper installation.
Want more information on polyester vs fiberglass screen? Feel free to contact us.
The 4 most common fiberglass screen material include:
- High Clarity Screen: Excellent view / very low durability.
- Standard Window Screen: Good view / average durability.
- Pool & Patio Screen*: Good view / good durability.
- No-See-Um Screen**: Acceptable view / good durability.
Modern polyester screen materials are used far more than any other material with respect to porch screen applications. Polyester screen material has all the same benefits of fiberglass screen material (easy to install, flexible and doesn&#;t crease or dent) but it has the added value of superior durability. You literally cannot rip, tear or damage it. About the only way to damage polyester screen material is with a knife or sharp poker. All polyester screen materials are also "pet resistant". Additionally, polyester has a 10-year minimum expected life span - but +20 years is more realistic. It is also available in rolls far larger than Fiberglass &#; upwards of 10 or more feet wide.
The 3 most common polyester screen materials include:
- Pool & Patio Screen: Good view / superior durability. Considered the standard material for porch, patio, deck, and pool enclosure applications. Will prevent all typical bugs such as flies, mosquitoes, bees, etc. ( SHOP HERE )
- No-See-Um Screen: Acceptable view / superior durability. Used in applications where black flies (below left) or no-see-ums (below right) are present -or- when privacy is desired. Because the weave is tighter to stop smaller bugs, view is reduced noticeably. ( SHOP HERE )
- "Super" No-See-Um Screen: Acceptable view / superior durability. Offers the ultimate insect protection. Extremely tight weave stops even the tiniest of insects. Also used in applications where additional privacy is desired. Because the weave is extremely tight, view is reduced noticeably more than standard "No-See-Um screen". ( SHOP HERE )
You should make your decision based upon budget, application, expected useful life, and potential abuse, etc. All 6 of the most common screen materials noted above will all work perfectly with SNAPP® screen and are all commonly available from most home centers or building suppliers.
Our recommendation to all customers is to use our Polyester Pool & Patio Screen, our Polyester No-See-Um Screen, or our Polyester "Super" No-See-Um Screen. Not because they are the only materials we sell, but because all three products have proven track record of durability and expected life. While the Polyester Screen may be more expensive up front, the useful life of the product makes it a far better value.
How will our Polyester Pool & Patio Screen look when installed ? (Most porches on the PHOTO PAGE have Polyester Pool & Patio Screen installed)
Basic cleaning is required and should be performed as needed based upon your location and exposure to pollutants, debris, and usage. At a minimum, seasonal cleaning should be performed to ensure no buildup of pollen or debris.
Extrusions and screening should be hosed off as required to retain a clean appearance. Best practice is to hose off from the inside spraying water outwards if possible. If a more intense cleaning is required, mix 1 cup of mild detergent with 1 cup of bleach with 3 gallons of water. This can be applied with a soft sponge or soft car washing brush &#; after first spraying off as much debris as possible with your hose. Wipe or brush down all extrusions and screening using moderate pressure &#; heavy or intense scrubbing is not required. Hose off all areas thoroughly with clean water and let air dry.
Never power wash or use any harsh or caustic cleaners, stiff or abrasive brushes or scouring pads. The use of any other product or cleaning method beyond that which is specifically noted above may cause damage to screening or the applied extrusion finish.
For more information, please visit Fiber Mosquito Screen Wholesale.