With the summer heat comes bugs, but there is a way to enjoy the outdoors without having to constantly swat them away. Retractable screens are ideal for porches, windows, garages and more, and the benefits go beyond keeping out unwanted pests. They can air out the house, save money on air conditioning, and provide a more open feel for people who can’t get outside, all with the convenience of sliding up and down with ease. So what are your options when choosing retractable screens for your home?
Fiberglass Screens vs. Aluminum Screens
The two most common materials used for screens are aluminum and fiberglass. Fiberglass is typically available in 100 foot rolls with widths varying from 18 to 120 inches. Some benefits of fiberglass include over 75% UV protection and resistance to rust and corrosion. It typically lasts 12 to 15 years, but will tear more easily than aluminum if there’s an incident (if you have animals, it’s highly recommended you go with aluminum screens). Other benefits of aluminum include a longer general lifespan and more of an ability to spring back. Aluminum is the most popular material for large screening projects. However, as far as the cost of retractable screen doors and windows, fiberglass is the best value at about 20 cents per square foot. Aluminum comes in at around 30 cents a square foot.
Other Screen Materials
Brass, bronze, stainless steal, and vinyl-coated fabric are also popular screening materials, each with their own unique benefits. These are generally more expensive, though, with the lowest coming in at one dollar per square foot.
Retractable Garage Door Screens
In 2013, 78% of people buying their first home bought one with a garage. Remodeling Magazine’s 2014 Cost vs. Value survey revealed garage door replacement can deliver more than an 80% return on investment for homeowners. Retractable garage screen doors are a great addition to any garage, no matter the size. They can usually be installed by the homeowner with some help, and offer many different benefits including turning your garage into a bug-free, enclosed space for entertainment during the warmer months. Some homeowners even use retractable screen doors to transform their garages into an bonus room.
Garage screens work in tandem with standard garage doors and operate on the same track system. Materials and prices vary depending on the manufacturer. A single-car garage is usually a minimum of 10-feet wide, which means you may want to consider choosing a lower cost material if you’re on a tight budget.
Retractable screen doors and windows can provide the comfort and protection you’re missing during the summer. To learn more about screen materials and prices, you can visit your local home improvement store or look online.
