Home Maintenance

If you haven't recently purchased new screens for your doors or windows, you may be pleasantly surprised by the options available. Now there are a wide variety of choices available, based on different materials, functions and applications. Before you make a purchase decision, consider all the latest options. Here is some information you may find useful.

Materials

Originally, screens had two basic purposes: to keep bugs out and let breezes in. The first mass-produced screens were made of galvanized steel. these were later replaced by the popular aluminum mesh versions, due to the material's rust-resistance and lighter weight. But now there are several other types of screen materials used depending on desired purpose, service ability, appearance and cost. For example, vinyl-coated fiberglass has become common due to its general effectiveness, cost-efficiency and color selection. If is even available in a sun-blocking variation. Other material options include bronze and copper (preferred in certain architectural applications), and heavy-duty vinyl-coated polyester (usually used where active pets are a concern).