Window Screen Basics: Choose The Best Replacement For Your Home

Torn, damaged screens provide just the excuse for updating your home's window screens to the type that works best for you. Before scheduling a repair, learn about the different screen options available for installation.

The Pet Problem

Pets, especially cats, can wreak havoc on your window screens. One little tear quickly turns into a gaping hole once claws find their way in. Pet-resistant screens are made from vinyl-coated polyester, which is more difficult to tear or puncture. Pet-resistant screens don't offer as high of visibility because of the thicker fibers, but they still allow airflow and keep bugs out of your home.

A Clearer View

If a clear view to the great outdoors is a requirement, fiberglass screening may be the best option. The fiberglass fibers are coated with vinyl for durability, but these screens are still the easiest to tear and puncture. For the clearest view, choose a fiberglass in charcoal or silver gray. The metallic fiberglass options can result in glares that inhibit visibility.

Energy Efficient

Let the cool breeze in but keep the hot sun out with solar screening. There are both aluminum and fiberglass solar screening options available. These screens are white, which allow them to reflect the sunlight without inhibiting visibility too badly.

Increased Durability

The metal screen options, including aluminum, copper and bronze, resist damage but they don't offer optimum visibility. Use these screens where heavy use or damage is a concern, or if you want the decorative look of the metal screen. Avoid using copper and bronze screens in aluminum screen frames, because contact between the two metals causes corrosion.

Don't Forget the Frames!

The type of frame increases your screen options. Frames come in vinyl, aluminum or steel. Choose a material that works well with your screen choice and complements the design of your windows and siding.

A great option for pass-through windows, such as near a patio or deck, is the retractable screen. This screen frame lifts just like your window, so you can pass items from inside the house to outside without leaving the kitchen. Another retractable option uses a magnetic frame to hold the screen in place, but it rolls open when it's in use.

After replacing and repairing your screens, ask the repairman to leave some screening material with you. Having matching screen material ensures future repairs will match with your existing screens, so you won't have to replace all the screens next time there is an issue. Contact Northridge Screen, for more information.