All You Need To Know About Custom Window Screens
Window screens, also known as bug screens or insect screens are designed to cover the openings of your windows in order to keep flies, insects, birds or debris from entering your property without blocking the airflow. They are a mesh made from plastic wire or other materials in a metal or wooden frame. Most residential and commercial properties all over the world use these window screens to prevent insects from flying inside. Some window screens provide additional protection against unwanted light, harsh weather conditions and harmful rays of the sun.
As there is no one standard size for windows and every property has different sized windows, window screens are usually custom-made according to the size of your windows. You can choose from a range of custom window screens in different materials for your home.
If you are considering installing window screens, this article will tell you all there is to know about this useful window feature.
Why do you need window screens?
Window screens are an important addition to your property. If you wish to have a well-maintained home, it is essential that you have window screens on all your windows. Here are some reasons why:
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- Protection against insects: Window screens keep animals, insects, and leaves from entering your property. Pests such as flies and mosquitoes carry germs and the risk of dangerous diseases such as malaria. For this reason, window screens are essential for every home to keeps all kinds of bugs and insects out.
- Protection against rain: Window screens prevent rain from getting inside the house, or at least reduce it to a great extent. Rainwater entering your home can result in water damage and mold. This can cause health problems as well as weaken the structure of your property.
- Reduced sunlight: If you live in a hot climate, dense window screens can reduce the amount of sunlight entering your home, keeping it cooler naturally. This brings down energy costs and protects your flooring, carpets, and furniture against sun damage.
- Ventilation: Window screens allow you to keep your windows open without worrying about any unwanted pests or waste entering your home. This ensures that your home is nicely ventilated and also purifies the air inside the home, eliminating odors and bacteria.
- Improved value of your property: When it comes to selling a home, any obvious problems in the upkeep of the property can leave a bad impression on potential buyers. Dirty or damaged screens are a clear sign of neglect on part of the homeowner while well-kept, clean screens will add to the value of your property.
What are the different types of window screens?
Window screens are available in a variety of different materials and the best one for your home will depend on the objective you wish to achieve with the installation of a window screen. If you are looking for the most basic model that will help keep the insects out, fiberglass is a good choice. However, if you wish for something extra, here are some other options you can consider:
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- Air filtration screens: If you live in an area with poor air quality, these screens are ideal for trapping pollution, pollen, and other harmful allergens and purifying the air in your home.
- Solar screens: These screens are designed to protect against harmful UV rays. Direct sunlight can damage items within your home; your wooden flooring may fade, your upholstery may discolor and your precious artwork can get damaged too. Solar screens can help prevent this damage.
- Pet screens: If you have pets in the house, you must be familiar with the damage they can cause around the house. Pet screens are a lot sturdier than normal screens and made to withstand the effect of pet claws, paws, and teeth.
- Super screens: This is just your regular window screen but the most durable model you can find. Window screens are susceptible to wear and tear over time due to several reasons and may need replacing after a few years. However, super screens can last 10 years easily.
- Tiny mesh: This is a screen with a smaller mesh that is effective in keeping the smallest insects and pests away from your home.
- Retractable screens: These window screens are retractable and work like shades. They can be rolled up when they are not needed and rolled down when you wish. Retractable screens are easy to install and not very expensive either.
How long does the average window screen last?
How long your screen will last depends on the extent to which the screen is exposed to factors that can cause its wear and tear and also on the kind of screen you go for. Window screens that are not exposed to excessive sunlight and cleaned occasionally can easily last 10-15 years before they need to be replaced. With better upkeep and regular cleaning, you can increase their life by 5-10 years. You should inspect your screen for any tears and holes from time to time. Small tears in the mesh can normally be repaired but if there is a large hole, you may need to replace the entire screen.
What material are window screens made of?
Most window screens use fiberglass and aluminum in their manufacture. These materials are sufficiently long-lasting for a window screen.
Fiberglass screens are able in a variety of colors and different levels of durability. They are usually made in black or different shades of grey. Dark colors tend to be less prominent when viewed from outside but the window may appear darker from inside the property. Aluminum screens cost almost the same as a fiberglass screen and are made in their natural metallic shade.
Conclusion
A window screen isn’t something a homeowner gives a lot of thought or importance too. However, without the right window screen in place, your home can not be complete. Invest in the most suitable option for your home and it is sure to pay you back for years to come.
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