How To Choose Window Screen Materials: Pros and Cons of Fiberglass, Aluminum, and Vinyl
Window screens are an essential part of the home. They keep bugs out but let fresh air in. And, aside from being a home’s first line of defense against insects and pollen, they add curb appeal.
It would be best to be careful when choosing your window screens because not all window screens are created equal. You need to consider how much light you want to let in and what kind of protection you want from other pests. Here are some things to think about when choosing your window screen materials:
The Importance of Window Screens
Window screens are a vital part of the home, and they keep bugs out but let fresh air in. As a home’s first line of defense against insects and pollen, they add curb appeal.
When choosing your window screens, you need to consider the amount of light you want to let in and what kind of protection you want from other pests. Here, we go over the pros and cons of the various materials for window screens:
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass screens are generally very inexpensive, which is a pro. But, this material is also fragile and easily breaks.
Other benefits of fiberglass window screens include:
– Promote better energy efficiency
– Safer and more durable than wooden window screens
– More affordable than aluminum or vinyl window screens
– Do not require painting like other materials (wooden, aluminum)
- Aluminum: Aluminum screens offer a sleek appearance and strong durability. It’s not as good as fiberglass for keeping mosquitoes out, but it does block more light.
The aluminum window screens are a lot lighter in weight, more durable, and resist rusting, sagging, and buckling. Plus, they have a natural finish that never needs painting or sealing.
- Wood: Wood screens look beautiful, and they’re easy to clean. However, they’re also expensive and can be challenging to install because they’re heavy and handmade.
- Plastic: Plastic screens are lightweight and easy to install. They may not offer as much protection against bugs as other materials.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass window screen kits are a great choice if you’re concerned with budget and want a material that is easy to clean. Fiberglass screens may not be as aesthetically pleasing as wood, but they are a good option for those who want a functional screen. Fiberglass screens also offer a great amount of protection from insects and other pests.
If you want a window screen that is lightweight and easy to install, fiberglass may be the best option for you. Fiberglass screens are also excellent for those with allergies because they filter out pollen and other allergens.
The downside to fiberglass screens is that they don’t offer as much protection from bugs as aluminum screens. In addition, fiberglass screens do not hold up well to severe weather conditions.
Consider aluminum screens for those who want a material that offers more protection from bugs and severe weather.
Aluminum
Aluminum window screens are a good choice for people who want to let in as much light as possible. Aluminum screens are also a good choice for people who live in areas where insects and pollen aren’t an issue.
Aluminum screens are the least durable, but they’re also the cheapest option. They also allow the most light to come through, which may not be ideal for people who want to keep insects out.
It would help if you also considered the home’s style. If you live in an older home with metal windows, wood or aluminum will look better than fiberglass or vinyl. Wood is also more attractive than vinyl, though it is more expensive.
Vinyl is easy to clean and doesn’t require painting, but it can be too shiny for some people’s tastes. Fiberglass is light, durable, and easy to install but can be difficult to clean. Aluminum has a nice appearance and is durable, but it can cause heat to build up in your home during the summer.
If you want to protect your family from bugs, fiberglass screens are the best choice because they keep bugs out and let air in. If you want a natural look for your home, then wood screens are the best.
Vinyl
Vinyl screens are a good option for people who want a material easy to clean and maintain. But vinyl screens are prone to fading in UV rays. And they are less resistant to corrosion. If you are searching for a material with high light transmittance, this may not be the best option for you.
See our window screen products for aluminum and fiberglass mesh kits.