Enjoy Fresh Air Without Bugs Thanks to the Best Window Screens

With several companies out there competing to catch your attention, you need to be armed with relevant information to buy only the right screens. Read our buying guide below for helpful information to make sure you buy the best window screen.

Why Do You Need Window Screens?

Window screens are not a luxury but a necessity. If you like to open your windows for some air, you're prone to flies and insects coming through opened windows. Some of the advantages of using window screens include the following:

Fresh airflow: You can easily get fresh airflow as you can leave the windows open all day and night.

Protection: Window screens are ideal for preventing bugs, insects, flies, and debris from coming into your home. In a downpour, using a window with a screen will mean less water comes in if the window is open, but we recommend closing the window to prevent water intrusion.

Cuts down heat and sunlight: You should use dense screens during extreme summers and day heat. Doing this will help you cut down the costs of cooling while shielding your home furniture from the direct effect of the sun.

Details to Consider Before Purchasing a Window Screen

Before you head out to buy a window screen, here are a few things you should think about.

Installation process

Before you buy a screen, find out how simple or complex the installation and assembly process will be. With most window screens, assembly and installation shouldn’t be hard. Many of the screens come fully assembled, and the process of installing them just involves adjusting the screen to your window width and fixing appropriately.

Ideally, you shouldn’t need any hardware or special tool to remove or install any such screens. However, some products are designed for you to cut the screen to your desired size, and those will require more work to install. Those are ideal for DIY projects such as building your own screened-in porch or replacing damaged screens.

Screen size

Because of their design, window screens can fit different window ranges. They are often made in diverse heights, ranging from 10 inches to 24 inches. The screen width usually can be adjusted to 36+ inches from 20 inches, depending on the product.

Some of the screens out there may also be vertically adjusted by simply flipping the screen over. Before buying a screen, ensure to measure your window dimensions. Even though these products can be adjusted, you need to be sure that your product will fit into the desired window.

Quantity

Although most window screens come as one per window, you need to confirm since some listings offer two or even more screens with each order. If you are someone that has multiple windows where you want to place your screens, purchasing them in bulk is a good way to save money.

Frames

Frames often differ in the materials used, ranging from steel to aluminum and wood. Usually, a window frame often comes with a blend of different materials in its design. Some frames come with galvanized metal which will help them survive harsh weather conditions.

Also, weather stripping may be factored into the frame’s edges to keep insects and moisture at bay. Regardless of what a frame is made of, ensure it is rugged enough to resist breaking, warping, and cracking.

The mesh element

The mesh is perhaps the most important element of the screen. It is what allows you to get all the benefits of opening your window. You want to make sure it is durable and functional. Like the frame, the mesh elements of the screen could be made using a blend of materials. Some mesh is made using fiberglass, while some are made using durable steel, which will not easily tear. You will find some mesh that features a blend of nanofiber technology which can easily block out unwanted pests.

Louvers

While this is not always the case, some of the window screens come with ventilation slats and metal louvers. Besides giving you a rugged screen, they also help protect you from the rain while giving you added privacy.

How Much Do Window Screens Cost?

You should get a decent window screen for about $10, although some cost over $100. Note that most screens come in the lower range, with the premium quality ones cost between $20 and $30. One core determinant of the cost of the screen is the build quality — usually, aluminum and fiberglass frames cost less than steel frames. The best way to save money is by buying window screens in bulk.

Maintenance and tips for your window screen

- You can clean adjustable window screen tracks using a disposable foam brush to help keep them free from debris.
- Having a finer mesh size will help you keep different insects at bay. However, it will reduce the screen visibility and the amount of light that comes through.
- Note that window screens are generally not connected to the frame in any super-secure way. Hence, you should take care when using them around pets or little children who may push them out easily.
- If you are replacing an old window screen with a roll of screening, note that you will need to purchase a spline and spline tool to get it done.
- Be sure to fix tears in the screen when you first observe them as they expand with time if not repaired quickly.
- If you have concerns about the metal mesh becoming rusty, you should brush some of the thinned enamel or varnish on the mesh.

Window Screen FAQ

Q. How can I clean my window screens?

A: Before cleaning your screen, remove them from your window. In the case of light dirt, you should use a lint brush and roll it on either side of your screen. If this doesn’t work, you may use a vacuum cleaner. You can even rinse the screen with a hose as well and wait for it to air dry.

Q. Can I use the screen vertically?

A: Although there are exceptions, you usually cannot. Most screens are used for horizontal windows which slide down and up. If you are looking for a screen for windows that open horizontally, look for a convertible screen or one specifically made for that type of window.

Q. Is it possible to slide the screens closed and open after you have installed them?

A: Due to their design, they are not made to do this. Most of them remain in place using the window’s height above and the placement of either end connected to the window frame.