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 doesnt 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.
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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 )
When choosing types of screen, there are two main materials that screen can be manufactured from: fiberglass yarns and metal wires. Of course, some screens are manufactured out of polyester yarns as well. So, how do you choose between the three? Read along to learn more!
The very first insect screens were manufactured out of metal, so well begin with metal screen. Generally manufactured out of aluminum, metal screen is a more traditional choice of screen material. It is very strong, making it ideal for geographical areas with insects such as grasshoppers that could pose a risk to eating through screens. Traditionally, metal screen delivers a more visually appealing
experience when looking through them. Other metal screens are made from bronze, stainless and galvanized steel wire.
Fiberglass screening began being manufactured in the late s, and was developed for its forgiving nature. Fiberglass, coated with a vinyl protective layer, offers a durable, longer-lasting option in coastal climates, since it is not susceptible to corrosion. Over time, fiberglass screen has become a popular option for pool enclosures and patios. Generally, fiberglass screen is only available in shades of charcoal or gray.
In the early s polyester fabrics were first produced by Phifer for outdoor furniture applications in our Phifertex® product line. Its strong, durable and weather resistant features in any outdoor application led to the development of other woven polyester products such as PetScreen®, TuffScreen® and SunTex® exterior sun shading fabrics.
While all three types of screen weather well and offer clear views, there are certain characteristics of each screen that make them more preferable in certain applications.
Metal screen, while sturdy, is also not forgiving, meaning that if pets, people or other object impact the screen, it will dent permanently. The fact that metal screen isnt forgiving, also makes it difficult to install in DIY projects. Theres a specific process that must be followed when installing metal screen, and most experts suggest hiring a professional to do the job. One more characteristic to keep in mind, is
Bronze Screen
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that metal screen generally comes in maximum widths of 60 to 72 inches. Therefore, if youre looking for screen large enough to cover a wide opening space such as in pool cages, the 6-foot maximum width would not be ideal for projects with wide expanse requirements.
Fiberglass, unlike metal screen, is very forgiving, and can withstand the hustle and bustle of people and pets and accidental bump-ins. This forgiving nature is also a great quality for DIY installs. So, if youre wanting to screen in your back porch one weekend, this material is your better bet. The width range for fiberglass screen is vast, and can be as wide as 132, making it a great option for larger installs such as
18x14 Fiberglass
pool and patio enclosures. Fiberglass is also more cost effective than aluminum.
However, fiberglass screen can have its setbacks as well, with fewer colors available and a greater vulnerability to damage from insects such as grasshoppers.
The primary difference with polyester screening products such as Phifer PetScreen® is not only the different core yarn but how it is coated with the protective vinyl. While metal screens are painted after weaving and fiberglass yarns are coated with a liquid vinyl prior to weaving, polyester yarns are vinyl coated in an extrusion process which places more vinyl on the yarn when compared with
SunTex 80
liquid coating. The result is the ability to make a larger diameter and softer coated yarn. The larger polyester yarns are woven in all SunTex® sun shading fabrics and many popular pool and patio products such as TuffScreen® No-See-Um screening.
If youre in the market to buy metal screen, Phifer® offers Aluminum No-See-Um screen that is perfect for keeping most small insects out, and providing great visibility. As for fiberglass screen, UltraVue 2® is an excellent choice of screen that provides unobstructed views and is infused with Water Shed Technology® to keep screens clear by preventing water collection on the screen while also repelling dirt and debris. TuffScreen® is a very popular polyester mesh product for screen porches or pool enclosures where durability is a priority feature. To buy any of these products now, click here.
Check out these and other screening products at www.phifer.com. From our website, you can live chat with us or give us a call at 800-854- to ask questions or receive more information.
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