When choosing a screen for a window, a person must consider several different variable. The choice of the correct type of screen for a window will determine in what way the screen will function within the home. Window screen are used to prevent insects from entering the home, but at the same time still allow air to entering the home through that window.
If the screen is of the wrong size for the window, however, insects may be able to enter the home through the screen, and the screen may be difficult to remove for cleaning purpose. There are several different types of window screens. Some type of screens are used for different windows than others.
How to Choose the Right Window Screen
For example, fixed screens are screens that cannot be moved from the window, but retractable screens are those that can be moved out of the way to allow individual to view outside the window. The mesh that is present on most windows can allow for insects to pass through the screen, as well as allow air to pass through. Those who have small insects that often enter the home may require a high mesh density screen, while individuals that own pet may require a screen with a more durable mesh that will not be easy damaged.
Windows may have different shape and different dimensions that must be measured for the installation of the screen. Screens are available for windows of different dimensions, such as single-hung windows (windows whose lower portion has a screen), double-hung windows (windows that have screens that cover the entire window), casement windows (windows that open outward), and sliding windows (windows that only require a screen on the side of the window that moves). A person may need to measure the inside of the window frame in which the screen will be installed.
A person should measure both the inside width of the window frame and the inside height of the window frame. Each of these dimensions should have a quarter inch subtracted from each dimension. This allows for the screen to be inserted into the window frame, and ensures that the screen will not become stuck when the window is opened.
The material used to create the frame of the screen can impact both the longevity and the appearance of the screen. For instance, aluminum screen frames tend to be light in weight, and often do not rust; vinyl screen frames may be less costly than other materials, but may flex more over time than other materials. Fiberglass screen frames are resistant to corrosion and may have some insulation property.
Steel screen frames are often used in applications in which the screen must be strong and be used to secure the window. The installation of the screen may determine the interaction that individuals have with the screen, and may impact the effort that they must use to remove the screen. For example, individuals can easily lift screens that are installed into the window tracks out of those tracks.
Screens that use spring pins will often require those pins to be compress in order to remove the screen from the window. Screw-mounted screens require individuals to use tools to remove the screen from the window. Hook and loop screens can be removed without any tools, while screw-mounted screens may be more permanent in their placement.
To maintain a screen, individuals may perform some simple step. For instance, a person may use a soft brush to remove any dust that accumulates on the mesh of the screen. Additionally, using a hose to rinse the screen will remove any buildup on the mesh.
Additionally, storing screen covers in a flat location and keeping them dry will prevent the screen from warping over time, and will ensure they can be easily reinstalled into windows in the winter months. Maintaining the screen will ensure that the airflow from the windows is maintained, and will extend the life of the screen. A person must make a decision as to which feature are most important for the screen that will be placed into the window.
For instance, individuals that own pets may want to choose a screen with a reinforced mesh to prevent the pet from continually damaging the screen. Those who would like to reduce the amount of heat that enters the home should choose a solar screen for the windows, though this will darken the view out the window. Those who would like to prevent tiny insect from entering the home may choose a screen with a fine mesh setting.
However, the fine mesh will reduce the amount of air that enters the home. Each of these features has a benefit, but also comes with some sacrifice by the individuals who install those screens. Each individual must make a decision as to which is most important for their windows.
