Does fiberglass screen tear easily?

Choosing the Right Screen Porch Material

Screening for porches, doors, and windows has primarily kept bugs out since its popularization in the late-1800s. Modern screening products, however, offer more than just insect protection. Read more

To help you select the right material for your project, here is a look at the most common types of screening and the specific properties of each.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass mesh, the most common screen type for porches, is affordable and offers good visibility with minimal sunlight glare. Unlike metal screening, fiberglass doesn’t crease and is flexible, making it easy to work with. However, it tends to stretch and tear more easily than other materials. It is typically available in black, silver gray, and charcoal, with black producing the least glare.

Aluminum

Aluminum screens cost about one-third more than fiberglass but offer excellent visibility. However, glare can be an issue, especially with bare (silver) metal screens. Aluminum is more rigid than fiberglass, making it harder to install but more durable. However, it can crease during installation and dent easily. It will also oxidize in coastal areas. Available in gray, black, and charcoal, black usually provides the best visibility.

Premium Metals

For upscale projects, screens are available in bronze, stainless steel, copper, and monel (a nickel-copper alloy). These materials are durable, long-lasting, and offer an elegant appearance with unique coloring. Bronze, stainless steel, and monel are particularly suitable for seaside climates.

Sun Control

If your porch or sunroom tends to overheat in summer, sun-blocking screens can be an excellent solution. These screens keep out bugs while blocking most of the sun’s heat, allowing light to pass through and maintaining good visibility. Some sun control screens can prevent up to 90% of the sun’s heat from entering.

Pet-Resistant

Pet-resistant screening is much stronger than standard mesh, ideal for owners of dogs, cats, small children, and other potentially destructive creatures. Although more expensive and offering less visibility than standard mesh, pet screening can be a good option for areas prone to wear and tear, such as the lower portion of screened walls.

Understanding Screen Weave

Standard insect screening is made from woven strands of material, with the tightness of the weave or mesh size measured by the number of strands per inch. Standard mesh is 18 x 16, while 18 x 14 mesh is slightly heavier for large, unsupported screen areas. For climates with tiny “no-see-um” bugs, 20 x 20 mesh screen provides the best protection from these tiny pests.

Which Window Screen Mesh is Better? Aluminum or Fiberglass?

If you are searching for the perfect window screen mesh in the right size and color, DAPA Products can help! With a large inventory and expert staff, we can assist you in covering any fenestration needs.

One frequently asked question is, “Which screen is better to use, fiberglass or aluminum?” Below is a brief overview of each material's pros and cons.

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Additional reading:
Paper vs. Mesh Drywall Tape: Which One Should You Use?

Aluminum Screen Mesh

Aluminum window screen mesh is ideal for high-traffic areas like offices or homes. It is resistant to UV rays, high temperatures, and corrosion, making it robust against environmental damage.

Pros:

• Stands up to UV rays
• High temperature resistant
• Corrosion resistant
• Stronger than fiberglass

Cons:

• More expensive
• Dents easily
• Challenging to install without professional help
• Oxidizes in coastal areas

Fiberglass Screen Mesh

Fiberglass window screen mesh is available in various colors and offers flexibility over durability. It is less likely to tear compared to aluminum but still provides adequate quality. Its flexibility makes it easy to install and it won’t dent from debris. It is more popular due to its ease of use and suitability in all climates.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Flexible material, easy to install
• Will not unravel, dent, or crease
• Variety of colors available

Cons:

• Fades over time due to UV rays
• Can be torn by sharp objects

Measure Your Windows

When measuring your windows for screens, measure from corner to corner. Document the width, height, and take pictures for accuracy. It also helps to have window screen repair kits on hand for aluminum or fiberglass mesh installations.

If you have any further questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to call us at 1-800-229-3181. We are happy to help you find the perfect screen!

For more details, visit Fiberglass Window Screen.