How to Choose Screening Material

When choosing screening materials, two primary types are commonly used: fiberglass yarns and metal wires, with some products also made from polyester yarns. Each type has its unique features and benefits, making it essential to understand your options before making a decision. Read along to learn more!

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What’s the Difference?

The earliest insect screens were crafted from metal, specifically aluminum, which is known for its strength and durability. This makes metal screens ideal for regions where tougher insects, like grasshoppers, may compromise a screen. Additionally, metal screens can provide a visually appealing experience when looking through them. Other variants include bronze, stainless steel, and galvanized steel wire options.

Fiberglass screening emerged in the late 20th century, designed for its flexibility and durability. Coated in vinyl, fiberglass screens resist corrosion, making them perfect for coastal areas. Consequently, they have gained popularity for use in pool enclosures and patios, although they typically come in only shades of gray or charcoal.

Polyester fabrics saw production beginnings in the early 2000s through brands like Phifer. Initially used in outdoor furniture, their weather-resistant properties have seen expansion into various woven polyester products, including PetScreen®, TuffScreen®, and SunTex® for sun protection in outdoor applications.

Pros and Cons of Metal, Fiberglass, and Polyester

All three screening types offer solutions that endure various weather conditions and provide a clear view; however, their specific characteristics can make them better suited to particular situations.

METAL

While metal screens are durable, they do not offer much flexibility. A strike from pets or people can cause permanent dents, making them less forgiving in DIY projects. Experts recommend hiring a professional for installation. Additionally, metal screens generally have a maximum width of 60 to 72 inches, which may be insufficient for wide openings like pool cages.

FIBERGLASS

In contrast to metal, fiberglass offers superior flexibility. It can withstand the daily wear and tear of pets and people alike. This characteristic is especially beneficial for DIY installations, allowing for ease of use during projects. Fiberglass screens can extend up to 132 inches wide, ideal for larger areas like patios and pool enclosures, while being more budget-friendly than aluminum.

However, fiberglass can fall prey to damage from grasshoppers and comes in limited color options.

POLYESTER

Polyester screening products differentiate themselves through their unique core yarn and the extrusion-coating process, which provides a thicker vinyl layer compared to metal or fiberglass options. This construction allows for greater durability and resistance against wear and tear.

Where to Buy Metal, Fiberglass or Polyester Screen?

Are you interested in learning more about glass fiber window screen? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

If metal screens interest you, Phifer® offers Aluminum No-See-Um screens to keep small bugs at bay. For fiberglass, UltraVue 2® is an excellent screen that ensures unobstructed views while repelling dirt with Water Shed Technology®. For polyester, TuffScreen® is favored for durable applications like screen porches or pool enclosures. To purchase any of these products, click here.

Explore these screening solutions and more at www.phifer.com. Here, you can chat live with our team or call us at 800-854- to get your queries addressed.

Guide to Screen Material

Choosing the correct screening material isn't a one-size-fits-all situation. With a broad variety of window and door screens available online, you're sure to find what you need among our extensive selection.

Factors such as the screen's intended application, location, and expected daily use should influence your material choice. This guide will help you select the perfect screen material for your needs.

Materials Used in Our Screens

Fiberglass

Vinyl-coated fiberglass provides a flexible yet robust option for numerous screening projects. It's especially favored for pool cages, enclosures, and window screens, as it returns to its original shape after being pressed. This affordable material maintains curb appeal and has found use in both residential and commercial spaces. The most common color options include silver-gray and charcoal, while black reduces glare.

Fiberglass Patio & Pool

Similar to standard fiberglass, pool and patio screens are manufactured thicker to withstand heavy traffic in these high-use areas.

Aluminum

As a strong, low-maintenance metal, aluminum screens resist rust and corrosion. They provide excellent ventilation and delightful views, but improper installation or heavy impacts can cause creases. Compared to fiberglass, aluminum typically offers longer-lasting durability.

Note: Aluminum screening may oxidize in coastal environments.

Commercial Bronze

Commercial bronze screens cater to historic homes or structures, where it’s crucial to use authentic materials for fixtures. Bronze screens not only keep out pests effectively but also develop a stunning patina that enhances their appearance over time, making them ideal for Victorian or historical aesthetics.

Polyester

Specialty pet screens use polyester or extruded polyester yarn, coated in PVC for unrivaled durability, able to endure vigorous pawing or jumping from pets. Its claw-resistant nature often discourages cats from attempting further damage.

Honorable Mentions

No-See-Um Screens are produced from various materials but are primarily designed to block incredibly tiny insects, such as gnats and marsh bugs, which traditional screens cannot catch.

Florida Glass Privacy Screen

Contrary to the name, these fiberglass screens offer a distinct manufacturing method that enhances privacy. Reinforced fiberglass containing a small piece of laminate plastic creates a privacy glass effect, allowing airflow and light while effectively obscuring the area.

Solar Roll-Up Shades and Solar Screens

Constructed to withstand the elements, solar roll-up shades utilize Twitchell’s Textilene® to diminish direct sunlight and reduce temperature fluctuations. Their material is also pet resistant.

Solar screens also feature Textilene®, designed to enhance privacy and aesthetics in both private and commercial locations while blocking heat and UV rays that can harm carpets and furnishings.

Best Areas for Each Screen Material

Universal Use

For those seeking an affordable yet durable screening material for windows, patios, porches, or pools, fiberglass proves to be an excellent option, especially in pet-free zones.

For high-traffic applications such as patios, porches, or pools, thicker fiberglass screens are preferable due to their robustness against challenging environmental factors.

Historic

For historic properties or anyone passionate about antique architecture, bronze screens are an impeccable choice. Composed of 90% copper and 10% zinc, bronze screens develop a rich dark finish while keeping pests at bay and preserving an elegant yet nostalgic atmosphere.

Pool, Patio, Porch

Numerous options exist depending on specific requirements and anticipated conditions. Standard fiberglass screens make an excellent budget option.

However, specialty fiberglass screens for pools, patios, and porches are manufactured to be tougher, resisting weather, wind, sun, and water splashes.

Should your porch or patio receive intense direct sunlight, you might consider adding a convenient solar roll-up shade for enhanced comfort and reduced glare.

If privacy is a concern, employing a Florida glass privacy screen can effectively obscure the view in screened areas while maintaining airflow and light.

Pets, Toddlers, and Kids

If you need a screen capable of withstanding enthusiastic pets or children, consider investing in pet resistant screens. These are made with PVC-coated polyester yarn and can endure over 400lbs of breaking strength.

Inside Screen Use

Specific rooms in homes receive the most sunlight exposure, which can result in increased heat and glare. Blinds may help, but aren’t always effective for blocking harmful UV rays that can damage furnishings over time. Custom Textilene® or 80% solar screens are designed for indoor use, effectively blocking harmful light while promoting cooler environments, saving energy consumption.

Arched Windows

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