How to Choose Mesh for Residential Screens

When you're in the market for new residential window screens and screen doors, it's good to understand that those screens are not all alike. The mesh of the screen itself will vary in size, and the material used for the screens will also vary. Understanding these differences will ensure that you invest in screens that are needed for your home's overall security and your comfort, protecting you from insects, dust, and other irritants that would otherwise come through the doors and windows of your home. Note a few differences in residential mesh that is used for screens, and this can help you decide the best choice for your home.

Aluminium versus fibreglass

Residential mesh screening is usually made of either aluminium or fibreglass; in most cases, the fibreglass is coated in vinyl, for added protection. Both of these materials are very durable, being resistant to rust and corrosion.

Fibreglass, however, is less prone to dents and dings, and is easier to stretch. This can make it better for larger areas such as a sunroom, or for areas where it may suffer some abuse, such as around an enclosed pool. If you have large pets who tend to scratch at screen doors, fibreglass can also be the better choice, as it's less likely to dent from their weight. Some screens are even meant for use for pets in particular; they may have added coats of vinyl, to make the mesh stronger against shredding. The drawback to fibreglass is that the material may have an artificial look and feel that you don't appreciate, and aluminium screens may coordinate better with aluminium windows and entryway doors.

Screen and mesh size

The size of mesh is important, as smaller mesh will keep out insects, dust, and other irritants, but smaller mesh also means less light transmittance and visibility. For a sunroom or any space where you want a full view of the outside, opt for the largest size mesh available.

If you do prefer to have maximum protection from the sun and from dust storms, high winds, and other such inclement weather, opt for what are called solar screens. These have very small mesh that means the least amount of debris getting through the screen. Solar mesh will also typically be painted a charcoal grey colour, to reflect sunlight off the surface of the screen. This helps to keep an area around the mesh much cooler, so it's good to use it along wide walls that are exposed to lots of hot, direct sunlight.

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