Phantom Screens Okanagan

Everything You Need to Know About Mesh Screen



Arm closing a screen mesh window

Everything You Need to Know About Mesh Screen

March 7, 2023

Have you ever found yourself just staring out your window, letting your focus drift towards the mesh screen, looking closely at the weave of metal that has become standard for most windows?

Yeah, us too. And since we’re on that topic, we’ve got some info for you about the standard screen mesh, as well as the new types of window screen mesh that can help improve the airflow and the aesthetic of your home. 

The history of mesh screen

People have been using some kind of screen in their windows for well over a century. The first patent for window screens was filed by Bayley and McCluskey in 1868. It’s reported that cheesecloth and woven horse hair was used for the first screens, before galvanized steel mesh became the go-to in the 1920s.

What’s it for?

Screen mesh is meant to act as a barrier between the inside of your home and what might be flitting around outside. Bugs, dust, debris, and other outdoor invaders will find it much harder to enter your home if there’s screen mesh on your windows and doors.

It’s also helpful in blocking UV rays from shining into your home, not only causing your furniture, wall art, and rugs to fade, but also drive up your cooling bill in the summer.

Are there different types of screen mesh?

There are! The standard that you see on most windows is insect mesh, which has a weave small enough to prevent any bugs from getting inside, but still allow for good airflow and don’t hinder the view.

There’s also privacy mesh, which is a much tighter weave and will better block the sun as well as make it hard to see through, thus more privacy.

The type you want will depend on your needs and the size of the openings you’re looking to use them. Some types will work better for small openings like windows, or a retractable mesh screen door, than they would for a large open side of a patio.

Aren’t mesh screens stationary?

They don’t have to be. Phantom Screens Okanagan provides the highest quality retractable window screen mesh and door screens, as well as motorized window and door screens. 

These are not only great for windows and doors; you can use them on a covered porch or veranda to keep the creepy crawlies away while you enjoy the evening breeze.

New screens for spring?

Screen door with mesh lock in cornerThinking about updating your current window and door screen mesh as part of your spring cleaning? We’ve got plenty of great options  for you, including our new Mesh Lock option for door mesh.

Mesh Lock keeps the mesh secure in the top and bottom tracks, which will prevent your sneaky little pets from making a grand escape. It also does the same work keeping bugs and debris outside while not hindering your view.

Does screen mesh need maintenance?

Like anything that spends a good portion of its lifespan exposed to the elements, screen mesh needs to be cleaned and maintained every once in a while.

Do a proper dusting and cleaning of the tracks of your retractable screens to keep them sliding smoothly.

You may also want to consider the different types of mesh depending on your needs. If you’ve got traditional screen mesh and a kitty that likes to climb it, you’ll likely need to replace it sooner rather than later. To do less maintenance, and keep kitty off the screens, look into pet screens, which are far more durable.

Need to replace screen door mesh?

Looking to upgrade your stationary screens to retractable screens? Want more info about Mesh Lock? Just curious about what we offer? Phantom Screens Okanagan is here to help you improve your home’s opening in whatever way works for you and your budget.

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