A Buyer's Guide To Choosing The Right Replacement ...

Window screens serve vital purposes &#; providing ventilation, blocking pests, and ensuring safety for children and pets. However, they can deteriorate, developing tears, holes, or loose frames over time. If you notice these signs, it&#;s time to replace your window screens.

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Choosing suitable replacements is crucial for proper airflow, pest control, and home security. This guide will explore key factors to consider when selecting new window screens, helping you make an informed decision.

Whether you are a seasoned homeowner or a first-time buyer, this article offers valuable insights into finding the perfect fit for your windows. Let&#;s delve into the essentials of window screen replacement.

Popular Options for Consideration When Choosing Window Screens

When it comes to window screens, homeowners have several material and mesh options to choose from, each offering unique advantages. Let&#;s explore the choices:

Material:

• Fiberglass is a popular choice for its durability and resistance to rust, making it a long-lasting option. Additionally, its thin and nearly invisible nature allows for an unobstructed view through the window.

• Aluminum screens are an affordable alternative, though slightly more visible than fiberglass. They provide adequate protection against insects and debris.

• For homeowners seeking exceptional strength and weather resistance, galvanized steel screens are an excellent choice. Their sturdy construction can withstand harsh conditions while effectively keeping out pests.

Mesh:

• Standard mesh is typically made of fiberglass or aluminum. It is suitable for most applications and offers basic insect and debris protection at a reasonable cost. Also, many manufacturers offer a wider range of mesh types that can be adjusted for special requirements.

• For homes with furry friends, pet-resistant mesh is the recommended choice. Made of vinyl-coated polyester, it is 5-7 times stronger and more tear-resistant than standard fiberglass mesh.

• Designed specifically to withstand scratches and claws from cats and dogs, pet-resistant mesh prevents your pets from damaging the screens. While potentially slightly more visible than thin fiberglass mesh, it still provides adequate visibility while ensuring long-lasting durability.

• Solar screen mesh is another option worth considering, as it blocks a percentage of the sun&#;s rays, providing a cooler and more comfortable indoor environment by reducing heat gain and glare.

When looking for the right window screen replacement, consider the above information a general principle. Depending on your needs, choose a solution tailored more towards keeping pets away or combating the heat. After selecting the right solution, there is time to consider the DIY approach or choose an experienced installer. Let&#;s see the benefits of each approach.

Installation Considerations for Window Screen Replacement

When it comes to installing replacement window screens, homeowners have two main options: do-it-yourself (DIY) or hiring a professional. Both paths have their advantages and considerations.

For those with some experience, a DIY installation can be a cost-effective solution. However, it&#;s essential to carefully follow the manufacturer&#;s instructions for a properly functioning installation. A few basic steps for a DIY screen installation include attaching the screen mesh to the frame, ensuring it is taut, and fastening the corners and edges.

If you&#;re not confident in your DIY skills or dealing with particularly challenging window configurations, it may be wise to hire a professional installer. Experienced contractors have the expertise and tools to handle even the trickiest installations, ensuring a long-lasting performance.

Although the cost may be higher, a professional installation can provide peace of mind and prevent costly mistakes or damage to your windows (and save your warranty). Installing window screens for large glazing can be tricky. Choosing an experienced installer may prove worth the additional cost, especially when you choose the screens provided by the window manufacturer. It&#;s better to choose a contractor who understands the system.

Regardless of your choice, carefully measure your windows, select the appropriate mesh type, and follow best practices for installation to ensure your screens effectively serve their purposes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing Window Screens

The first and most common mistake is inaccurate measurement. It can lead to an ill-fitting replacement screen that fails to create a proper seal, compromising functionality. Precise measurements are essential for a custom-made screen. Insufficient preparation by neglecting to thoroughly clean the window can prevent the new screen from adhering properly and creating a tight seal.

Also, improper hardware is more common than you might think. Wrong screws, anchors, or fasteners can cause the screen to loosen or sag over time, so following the manufacturer&#;s recommendations for securing the screen firmly in place is crucial. Choosing an unsuitable screen material that lacks the necessary durability, insect protection, or sun/heat blockage, such as standard mesh for a home with pets, can compromise performance and longevity.

Finally, while replacing a window screen may seem like a DIY-friendly task, attempting it without the necessary skills or tools can damage the screen or window frame, leading to costly repairs. This requires careful removal of the old screen and precise installation of the new one. Avoid these common mistakes, to ensure your replacement screens look great and function optimally.

Benefits of Window Screens by OKNOPLAST

At OKNOPLAST, we understand the importance of providing convenient and damage-free solutions for installing window screens. Instead of drilling holes into the window frame, our screens utilize adjustable metal clips that mount the screen without causing any damage. This installation method protects your windows and allows for easy disassembly for cleaning or maintenance.

Our screens are available in a range of popular colors, including winchester, nut-brown, mahogany, golden oak, and classic white, ensuring a seamless integration with your home&#;s existing aesthetic.

Mosquito screens &#; effective protection against insects

We recognize that modern homes and apartments prioritize comfort and functionality, but the arrival of warmer weather can bring unwelcome guests in the form of insects. This is especially true for homeowners residing in Ohio, California, Texas, or Florida, where hot seasons bring a wave of unwanted critters.

Our screens offer the perfect solution, allowing you to enjoy fresh air without the hassle of mosquitoes, flies, or other pests. These screens are not just a practical solution but also enhance both comfort and style. Featuring a special mechanism, these screens can be easily slid open or closed, making them an ideal solution for large glazed areas such as patio or balcony enclosures.

The installation process for our screens is relatively straightforward and can be undertaken as a DIY project or with the assistance of our specialists. We offer various installation systems, including frame-mounted, magnetic, or Velcro options, ensuring a tailored solution to meet your specific needs and window types. Additionally, the screen material we use, typically fiberglass or polyester, is designed for durability and resistance to weather conditions.

With a wide range of available colors and patterns, our window screens can seamlessly integrate into your home&#;s design. They are also available in various sizes, ensuring a perfect fit for any glazed area, whether small or large.

Final Thoughts:

Choosing suitable replacement window screens is crucial for functionality, aesthetics, and home comfort. Consider factors like material, mesh type, and installation methods to ensure effective pest control, proper ventilation, and a complementary design.

Proper installation and maintenance are key for optimal performance and longevity. Whether a DIY project or a professional job, following best practices pays dividends.

Explore our innovative, stylish window screen solutions that combine functionality with convenient installation and diverse color options.

For more home improvement insights, visit the OKNOPLAST blog.

From keeping bugs out to letting fresh air in, window screens are a must-have for any savvy homeowner. But with so many new options in window screen meshes, it can feel a little overwhelming&#;should you choose polyester or copper; which is better for security?

For all your questions, we put together this window screen buying guide to help you prioritize your needs and choose the perfect house window screens for you and your humble abode.

We&#;ve broken down the guide into the following topics:

• Popular Screen Materials
• Key Functions of Window Screens
• Window Screen Frames

Let&#;s dive into everything you need to know about the &#;screen scene.&#;

Popular Window Screen Materials

The mesh-like wire commonly found in window screens is typically made from one of the following materials, each offering their own unique set of upsides:

• Fiberglass &#; Mesh screens constructed of fiberglass are known for their flexibility, which gives them a resistance to dents and creasing. They also offer excellent airflow and visibility and are widely regarded as the most popular choice.

• Polyester &#; More durable than fiberglass, polyester mesh is known for being tear-resistant. Polyester is a popular choice among pet owners who worry about their furry little friends clawing and destroying their window screens.

• Aluminum &#; Screens constructed of aluminum have a variety of upsides, the most important being their reputation for not sagging or rusting. This aluminum window screen variety also provides top-tier airflow.

• Stainless Steel &#; Stainless steel is known as one of the toughest materials used in the screen mesh. In a high-traffic area where safety is a concern, this is a favorite choice.

• Copper &#; Known primarily for its use as an insect screen, copper&#;s popularity is booming along coastal areas. It&#;s also quite popular for its distinct color, offering home designers a unique twist to incorporate into their plans.

Each material comes with its own advantages, some bolstering the most sought-after window screen functions. To that end, let&#;s dive into those functions, so you can isolate your priorities and choose the screen mesh for your home.

Key Functions of Window Screens

When deliberating which window screen is the best fit, it&#;s important to assess the main function, or functions, you need most. Do you live in a humid area where heat is often trapped indoors? Perhaps you should focus on airflow. Need that extra layer of security to sleep comfortably at night? There are meshes built for you.

For more white fiberglass screeninformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

Conventional motives homeowners have for installing window screens include:

• Airflow
• Transparency
• Pest Control
• Security
• Energy Savings

Whether you have one central worry or a combination of two or more concerns, this guide will help you better articulate your needs when it comes time to shop for window screens.

Airflow

Let&#;s first discuss the most common factor for buying windows screens: fresh air.

If taking in breezes on cool summer nights is your priority&#;while still eliminating the risk of attracting bugs, debris, or even intruders&#;homeowners should consider the limits window screens can place on airflow.

According to a study by the National Institute of Health, screens can decrease airflow anywhere from 16% to 77%. Nevertheless, that air wouldn&#;t be coursing through your home at all if these windows were shut.

To that end, if the airflow is your primary concern, keep these basics in mind while you shop:

• Tighter mesh weaves, common in insect screens, will decrease airflow.
• Grey fiberglass mesh provides the best airflow

Transparency

Should you want to indulge in a breeze and open up your windows, but still keep some semblance of privacy, you might want to prioritize the transparency factor of the window screen. Nowadays, screens range in their mesh wire thickness, allowing more (or less) sunlight through&#;meaning passersby can see more (or less) of what&#;s inside your home.

Some options to consider for transparency are:

• One-Way Screens &#; One-way screens, also known as a limited visibility mesh screen, let in sunlight almost like a one-way mirror. In other words, if you&#;re inside your home looking out, you&#;ll have decent visibility. However, if you&#;re outside your home looking in, you&#;ll have very limited visibility. In this way, you can still let in airflow and view the world outside without having to give up your privacy.

• High-Visibility Screens &#; One of the most impressive new screen features is invisibility. High-visibility screens, for example, are screens with such thin wiring that you barely notice they exist at all. Phifer, a manufacturer of new high-visibility screens, describes this option as giving &#;the look and feel of being outdoors while being indoors.&#;

Pest Control

Insects are known for disrupting a beautiful day outdoors. But when those pests ruin a beautiful day indoors&#;well, then it feels personal. The solution? A window insect screen geared toward pest control.

That said, nuisance isn&#;t the only reason to consider pest control screens. In fact, some pests, like mosquitoes, mice, and rats, are known to carry diseases. Thus, a window screen isn&#;t just for comfort, it&#;s also for safety. There&#;s a reason why pest control is one of the most commonly cited reasons for installing window screens.

The good news is, they work. Properly installed window screens allow homeowners to enjoy the breezy benefits of an open window while blocking out those creepy critters.

If you&#;ve struggled with any of the following pests in your home, consider a polyester-based or fiberglass screen:

• Houseflies
• Birds
• Mice
• Rats
• Horse-Flies
• Cockroaches
• Centipedes
• Crickets

The added strength of polyester-based screens will help with the larger pests; the tightly interlaced fiberglass mesh will help with the smaller ones.

Tip: If you&#;re dealing with the smallest of pests&#;think gnats and biting midges&#;you&#;ll want to consider 20 x 20 fiberglass mesh. While the tightness of this screen will reduce the airflow and sunlight coming through, it will be worth not having to deal with no-see-ums.

Security

In the United States, there are an estimated 3.7 million household burglaries each year. Oftentimes, simply having window screens works as an added roadblock and can impede burglars. If you reside in a high-traffic area, security window screens can help to alleviate the risk.

A security screen is specifically designed to impede forced entry. These mesh and see-through fabrics are typically made from woven stainless steel threads attached to a metal screen frame using an interlocking system of clamps.

The end result is a heavy-duty screen that denies access to burglars, while still providing the comforts of standard window screens.

This evolution of window screens as a centerpiece of home safety is showing no signs of slowing down, either. Here are some new developments worth keeping an eye on:

• Child-Safety Screens &#; Many of the same technological advancements used to prevent forced entry by intruders also work to prevent falls caused by children leaning or pressing onto window screens.

• Fire Resistant Screens &#; Finer metal screens are being adopted in wildfire-prone areas. They have been proven successful in helping windows handle the excessive heat from nearby fires and blocking small embers from entering the home.

Energy Savings

What hasn&#;t been mentioned up until now is the other major benefit to installing window screens on your home&#;they can save you money. By reducing the amount of sunlight flooding into your home in the summer months, you can dramatically reduce the need for air conditioning and lower your utility bills.

If this is your priority, then a solar screen is your golden ticket. Solar window screens can block up to 90% of the sun&#;s rays.

But what if you live in a colder climate and you want to trap heat in? Solar screens placed on the inside of windows (rather than on the outside) are perfect for keeping heat in.

Here&#;s how solar screens&#; multifunctionality meet a variety of needs:

• Screen on the Inside of a Window &#; Ideal for cold climates. The interior set screen will absorb the sunlight, trapping the warmth inside your home where you need it.

• Screen Tacked on Outside of a Window &#; In hot climates, a solar screen tacked on the outside of a window will trap heat before it enters your home, and reduce the amount of sunlight coming in.

• Screen Hung Outside of a Window with a Gap &#; For a maximum cooling option, place a gap between the outside screen and the window. This separates the heat captured in the screen from the glass itself. The cooling effects work particularly well in breezy environments.

Window Screen Frames

Once you settle on the central purpose for your window screen, it&#;s finally time to think about the frame your screens will rest in. While there is an aesthetic aspect to frame selection, a large part of the decision comes down to which type of frame function you prefer.

Here are few frame functions to consider:

• Outswing window screens
• Fixed screens for windows
• Sliding window screens

The width and thickness of your frame will likely be dictated by your screen choice. For instance, a heavy-duty security screen will require a broader, more sizable frame.

Tip: Retractable window screens are trending. Unlike traditional window screens, the retractable version can be slid, and sometimes even rolled, away from the window when not in use.

Restoring, Repairing, and Replacing Window Screens: Glass Guru

With a better understanding of the functionality and types of window screens available, you might be ready to restore, repair, or replace yours. If you need help from a local specialist with window screen repair or screen replacement, consider the experts at the Glass Guru. We can help you navigate everything from the cost of various window screen combinations to a professional installation.

Sources:

Bureau of Justice Statistics. National Crime Victimization Survey. https://www.bjs.gov/content/pub/ascii/vdhb.txt

National Institute of Health. Wind Tunnel Analysis of Air Flow Through Insect Screens. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC/

The Glass Guru. Window Screens. https://www.theglassguru.com/services/screens/window-screens/

Lansing Housing Products. Child Safety Screens. https://www.lansinghp.net/child-safety-screens/

Phifer. High Visibility Screens.
https://www.phifer.com/screening/features/visibility/

Every Solar Thing. Solar Screens. https://www.everysolarthing.com/blog/solar-screens/

Want more information on fiberglass insect screen mesh? Feel free to contact us.