History of the Window Screen
Window screens are often overlooked, much like common household items such as carpets and light bulbs. For many, their presence has become so ingrained within our lives that we hardly remember a time when they weren't there. We typically think of window screens only when confronted by pesky insects entering our homes, or perhaps when it’s time to replace them due to wear and tear.
It might be surprising to imagine a world without window screens, yet their invention played a significant role in enhancing our daily comfort and safety. These screens were not merely a convenience; they revolutionized how people interacted with their environments, enabling fresh air to flow freely while keeping unwanted pests at bay.
Beginnings
The exact origin of the window screen is somewhat ambiguous. A reference to "woven wire" for window screens appeared in The American Farmer, and advertisements from earlier times also hinted at their use. Although various forms of screens existed prior, it was the Gilbert and Bennett Manufacturing Company that is frequently credited with pioneering the woven wire screen. Struggling to sell to the South during the Civil War, they adapted their product by painting the wire to prevent rusting, which led to the rise of window screens as a popular household item.
On the Railroad
Bayley and McCluckey made history by becoming the first to file a patent for window screens designed for passenger railroad cars. These innovative screens served to keep dust, sparks, and cinders at bay, greatly enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers.
Window Screens As Art
Window screen material found its way into the hands of artists who used it as a canvas for their creativity. By painting scenic landscapes onto these screens, they not only created beautiful art but also crafted functional barriers against insects while providing a degree of privacy.
Window Screen to the Rescue
Prior to the widespread adoption of window screens, households grappled with an influx of mosquitoes, flies, and other pests, which brought numerous diseases into the home. The advent of window screens played a pivotal role in combating these nuisances, significantly contributing to public health by helping to eradicate many illnesses that were once common in early America. It's fascinating to consider how such a simple invention transformed society and alleviated many of the pains that plagued our ancestors.
Modern Window Screen Material
In contemporary times, encountering homes, apartments, and various living spaces lacking window screens has become increasingly rare. Modern advancements have expanded the choice of materials available for window screens, allowing homeowners to select options that cater to their specific needs and preferences. Today's window screens can be made from a variety of materials including aluminum, fiberglass, copper, and PVC.
Metro Screenworks: Quality Window Screen Material
If you're in search of top-notch window screen materials for replacing old, worn-out screens, for your building project, or perhaps for screening in your porch, our selection is sure to meet your requirements. We offer a wide array of window screen materials, available in various roll sizes and lengths, along with the option of premade custom screens.
Explore our products online! If you have questions about our offerings or need assistance with measuring for custom screens, feel free to visit our Measuring FAQ page!
Don't forget to check out our blog, which provides screen tips, creative ideas, and valuable information!