Picking a Retractable Awning for Your Home

Sure, outdoor living spaces are great, but only when they feel livable. When everything is in place, porches or patios are the perfect spots for family bonding, fun activities, and simply taking in the sights and smells of the outdoors.

However,  without necessary sun protection, the outdoor elements can quickly become unbearable. Let’s be honest; there are very few things that will make someone want to head back inside more than an annoying glare from the sun or a sweat-soaked shirt. 

So if your porch or patio isn’t already covered and you live in an area with lots of year-round sunlight, then a retractable awning might be exactly what the doctor ordered. That way, you can maximize the use of your outdoor living space.

What is a retractable awning?

A retractable awning is a cover for a porch, patio, deck, pool, or other outdoor living space. Unlike traditional awnings, retractable ones can be deployed or retracted at a moment’s notice. 

Need some shade? Unfold the patio awning. Want to bask in the glorious sunlight and catch a tan? Retractthe awning. It’s that simple.

Why should I buy a retractable awning?

We already mentioned the most obvious reasons to purchase a retractable canopy. It can defend against adverse weather such as too much sun or rain and noted its versatility—use it when you want, retract it when you don’t. But there are other reasons a retractable awning might be the perfect fit for your home. 

First, it is a great way to protect your uncovered porch and patio furniture. Too much exposure to sunlight and the elements can damage or fade its fabric. And second, it is probably the cheapest option for covering a patio. A more permanent solution such as ceiling panels or an insulated roof can cost beaucoups more.

On top of that, a retractable awning can:

• Improve the look and comfort of your home
• Save on energy costs
• Increase your home’s value
• Add to your home’s curb appeal
• Increase the amount of livable area in your home

How much should I pay for a retractable awning?

That brings us to how much you can expect to pay for a retractable canopy. Typically, the price of a retractable awning runs from about $600 to $4,000. This depends on numerous factors, such as the awning fabric, how it’s operated, how large it is, where it is being installed, and the installation fee.

That being said, retractable awnings are definitely worth it if you are a person who enjoys using your outdoor living space as much as possible. Without a retractable awning or some other patio cover, you might only get a fraction of the use out of your outdoor seating area.

What is the best retractable awning?

This is a very subjective question, but let’s give it a shot. The best retractable awning boils down to personal needs and desires and how well it fits your home. What is the goal of the awning? Where do you want to put it? How large does it need to be? What is your budget? Etc.

At Screenmobile, we have three main retractable awnings on offer:

1. Sun Control retractable shades

These durable retractable canopies come either manual or motorized, protect from harmful UV rays, and can be custom-installed up to 40 feet wide. 

However, what makes the Sun Control version unique is its five projection options that let you choose which height you want the patio awning pitched. This means you can angle the shade to the perfect level, maximizing shade while also letting in enough sun.

2. Sunair retractable awnings 

Sunair’s UV-blocking, retractable awnings are another great choice. They come in sizes up to 14 feet and have three different metal frame options to choose from. You can buy the manual version or—if you want to take it to the next level—a motorized, remote-controlled version. If you’re worried that a Sunair patio awning won’t match your house, don’t be. Sunair retractable canopies come in hundreds of different colors.

3. SunPro retractable awnings

The SunPro retractable canopies are most known for their high-quality, long-lasting, and beautiful fabrics. On top of that, SunPro awnings have built-in dimmable LED lights, which are great for nighttime use, easy pitch adjustment, motorized and wireless control, three frame colors, and a durable housing case that protects from adverse weather. 

How to pick a retractable awning

Here’s a comprehensive checklist of things you need to consider before being able to confidently pick the retractable awning for your outdoor living space:

• Type of fabric the awning is made of
• Color and design of the fabric
• The size you need to cover the outdoor space
• The retraction mechanism (motorized or manual)
• Maintenance and upkeep requirements
• A reliable installer

Our team of experts at Screenmobile can help with all of the above and more. We have an extensive network of qualified and experienced retractable awning installers waiting to do the job. 

So when you’re ready, just give us a call or contact us at Screenmobile.com.

Screened in porches have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, especially in areas with warmer climates. And it’s not hard to see why. Screened in porches or decks allow homeowners to enjoy beautiful weather, add another quality living space to their home, and significantly improve their house’s value.

What’s not to like about any of that?

But that barely scratches the surface when it comes to the many benefits of a screened-in porch. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of it and find out exactly why screening in a porch or patio can be a total game-changer for your home.

What is a Screened-in Porch?

Put simply, porch screening consists of installing a screen enclosure onto your existing porch and surrounding the little-used outdoor area of your home, transforming it into a high-quality extra living space. A screen enclosure allows homeowners to enjoy the outdoor vibes with a layer of protection against the sun and annoying bugs and insects.

A screened-in porch can cost between $8 to $20 per square foot for covered porches or patios, depending on your area’s labor and materials costs.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

“Do it yourself” screened-in porches and decks are possible but can be a very challenging undertaking. That’s because most custom patio screenings demand a tricky installation process that needs to be carefully thought out, planned, and executed by professionals with years of experience. 

So unless you have some serious DIY home improvement chops, it’s probably better to leave it to the professionals. That way, your screened-in porch will blend seamlessly with the rest of your home and remain up to snuff for many years to come.

You could also transform an unused outdoor space into a flashy three-season room if you want to go beyond a screen-in porch or patio.

Now, here are 4 benefits of screening in a porch, patio, or deck.

1. Improved Home Value

Even though they are not typically factored into the overall square footage of a home, screened-in porches and decks still add tremendous value. This is primarily due to the fact that they add functional living space and a feature that’s in high demand to homes. 

Assuming you live in a warmer area where screened-in porches are highly sought after, you could see anywhere from a 50%-100% return on your initial screen enclosure investment. According to HGTV, a screened-in patio is one of the ten best projects to add value to your home.

2. More Usable Living Space

As mentioned, screened-in porches and patios add valuable living space to homes. This brand new living space could be used for all sorts of things. And it’s entirely up to you. 

Want a second living room? No problem. Or how about a chill-out reading den with a chair swing, hammock, or yoga area? Sure thing. Or, better yet, an outdoor kitchen or dining area, which would otherwise be impossible due to pesky flies and other insects? You got it! You can even use them as a place to keep your furry friends. The possibilities are truly endless.

3. A Breath of Fresh Air and a Healthier Lifestyle

For many, life has changed and allowed people to spend more and more of their time at home, whether it be the increase of remote work opportunities or the convenience of things like Netflix and food delivery apps. While this new reality offers many benefits, it’s not the best thing to be stuck inside all day.

This makes screened-in porches the best of both worlds. A screened-in porch gives homeowners an outdoor space where they can soak up the fresh air and sunlight, allowing them to boost their health, energy levels, and creativity while still being in the comfort of their own home.

4. Entertainment Space for Guests

Screened in decks and patios are also a great option for more socially-minded individuals, offering the perfect place for them to entertain and hang out with guests. Screened-in porch ideas for entertainment include a TV area to watch big sporting events, a dinner party space, or an outdoor drinking area that’s completely mosquito-free. 

Types of Screened-in Porches

Screenmobile offers four main types of porch screens, each with its own advantages:

• Stapled: most cost-effective option and can be customized for any porch, deck, or patio.
• Removable Panels: custom-sized for any space and can easily be removed with clips and fasteners.
• Screen Tight: Assorted colors to complement your home and no staples necessary.
• Screeneze: For homes with existing covered porches. No staples or visible screws.
• Small Extrusions: The best choice for longevity.  The low-profile frame offers a screened-in patio with minimal visual obstruction.

If you’re interested in installing a screened-in porch, don’t hesitate to visit Screenmobile to ask our porch and patio screen specialists for a free estimate today.

Let’s paint a hypothetical picture for a moment. Say you’re interested in screening in your home’s porch or patio, but you’re not entirely sold on something so permanent. . You want protection from the sun and annoying insects, but you don’t quite want to commit to a screened-in porch as a permanent feature of your home.

That’s totally understandable. Now imagine that there’s a “best of both worlds” solution to this conundrum. Well, lucky for you, there is! Roll down screens. 

Roll-down screens, unlike traditional screened-in porches, can be rolled up or down whenever needed. This means you can use them when you want, but they’ll never get in the way when you don’t.

That said, here are all the things you need to consider before installing roll-down patio screens for your home.

What are Roll-Down Screens?

Roll down screens are devices that allow homeowners to screen in or shade their porch, patio, deck, or garage whenever they need to. Too much sun shining in? Mosquitos feasting on your legs and flies eating your food? Is the wind annoyingly blowing your hair all over the place? Just roll down the screen.

Roll Down Screen Uses

In addition to providing shade, keeping insects at bay, and protecting you from the elements like rain, wind, and cold, retractable screens for porches can also be used to:

• Ensure day-time privacy
• Create a bug-free space for children and pets to play
• Keep unwanted birds and other critters away
• Protect your home from golf balls and other debris
• Offer a chill and comfy place to relax
• Save energy by letting less sunlight invade your home

Manual or Motorized

Both manual and motorized retractable porch screens are simple to operate. Manual screens and shades are crank-operated and can be raised or lowered via a removable crank. On the other hand, motorized porch screens are set up with a small motor that deploys the screen with the simple click of a button.

Both manual and motorized retractable screens have their pros and cons to consider as well. But to keep it short and sweet, let’s just say that motorized screens tend to be more convenient and modern while manual screens are typically more budget-friendly. 

Motorized screens like Phantom’s can even be automated to roll down based on various environmental conditions. And the Phantom screens can also be controlled via your smartphone. 

In addition to the Phantom, Screenmobile offers a few more motorized screen options, including:

• Sun Control
  • Heavy Duty Cable Guided Shades
  • Heavy Duty FRT Shades
  • Canopy Tension Screens
• Insolroll
  • Oasis 2700 Patio Sun Shades
  • Oasis 2800 Patio Shades
  • Oasis 2900 Patio Insect Shades
• SunPro
  • Phifer Tuffscreen® Heavy-duty Screen
  • Phifer Tuffscreen® No-see-um Screen
• Sunair
  •  SC4500 Mastershade®

Sizes and Mounting

In general, roll-down screens and shades come in a variety of shapes and sizes. From small windows to massive outdoor patios, roll-down screens are capable of shading your space. At Screenmobile, our trained professionals can help mount roll-down screens for every need, including up to 24-foot-wide and 16-foot-tall installations.

Screen Types

The next step is to choose the type of screen fabric that suits your home’s needs. There is a wide selection to choose from, including sun control screens, insect control screens, pet-resistant screens, weather-resistant screens, and more. 

If you’re unsure what type of screen is right for you, our experienced team can help.

Color Options

The final step is picking the color of your screen fabric and the frame color of your roll-down screen. When evaluating your different options, two key considerations are: do you want a color that will complement and contrast your home’s existing colors, or do you want it to blend in seamlessly without changing the look too much? The choice is entirely yours.

Installing a Retractable Screen

If you’re thinking about adding a roll-down screen to your home, we’re here to help. To get started, contact your local Screenmobile or request a free estimate today.

When it comes to sprucing up our homes, porches and patios are notoriously overlooked by many homeowners. That’s a shame because a top-notch porch or patio can work wonders on the value, curb appeal, and style of your home.

Here we’ll show you the best ways to upgrade your deck, patio, or other outdoor living space. That way, you’ll have yet another cozy spot in your home to kick back and relax in. And that’s something you’ll be super thankful for when the warm summer months roll around each year.

With that said, here are 7 ideas to take your porch and patio game to the next level: 

1. Screen-In Porch and Patio Enclosures

A screened porch is the best of both worlds. Not only can you enjoy the warm outdoor breeze and views, but you can do so while being protected from pesky mosquitos and unwanted debris from outside. Since most people want to spend more time outdoors, many homeowners choose to screen in their porches. Life on the porch takes on a whole new appeal when protected from insects and blowing leaves. Think of outdoor meals without swatting at flies or relaxing summer cocktails with friends! Additionally,  a screened-in porch can serve as a second family room to entertain an evening with the kids.

Screen enclosures come in a nice variety of fabric choices and frame colors. Motorized screens are also a great option.

2. Patio Furniture

High-quality patio and deck furniture is a must if you want to turn your outdoor living space into something worth hanging out in often. What you want to go for here is both functionality and comfort. That way, you’ll look forward to spending more time on your porch or patio. And don’t forget to add an outdoor rug, cushions, and pillows, curtains, or other decorative accessories for a nice homey touch.

P.S. Don’t forget sun control to protect your patio furniture and decor from UV rays.

3. Deck and Patio Plants

Now that you’ve got your outdoor furniture in place, it’s time to add some green into the equation. Adding potted plants to your porch and patio can do just that. The key here is one: not to get carried away—a few well-placed succulents can go a long way. And two: get creative with your planters. Spray paint your plant containers to match your porch or patio style, or think about making a hanging planter or two.

4. Patio Covers, Awnings, and Exterior Shades

If you are spending time on your porch or patio, the last thing you want is for it to be exposed to too much sunlight. Sweating from the heat or trying to avoid a troublesome glare isn’t exactly comfortable. So in the case that your patio, deck, or porch isn’t already covered, you could install a roll-up shade, a retractable awning, or a lattice or paneled patio cover.

5. Hand Railings

Traditionally, deck and porch hand railings were wooden. Nowadays, it’s highly recommended to opt for glass, cable, or aluminum hand railings. 

Unlike wooden railings, these hand railings are much less prone to wear and tear, meaning fewer maintenance costs on your end. So you might as well opt for something that will stand the test of time on its own. 

6. Porch Lights

The next step in transforming your porch or patio is to add lighting, which not only boosts the overall ambiance but also makes it safer and more secure. Show your creativity when adding lights to your porch. String lights, hanging lanterns, or stylish lamps will improve your patio or deck’s visual appeal. 

Side note: We recommend LED lights. They’ll cost more upfront, but since they have longer lifespans than incandescent bulbs, you’ll save in the long run. They’re also more energy-efficient, saving you money on your electricity bill. 

7. Three-Season Room

Last but not least, you could take the boldest approach of all by completely turning your outdoor deck or patio into a full-blown three-season room. Since three-season rooms are enclosed and offer superior temperature control so you can use them year-round, unlike most patios and porches. 

Once your outdoor space is converted into a three-season room, you can use it for whatever purpose you might need: an additional family room, a pool enclosure, or a casual dining room. This is also an ideal area to place plants if you have any that are sensitive to cold.

If you need more convincing, here are 5 Benefits of a Three-Season Room.

Conclusion on Upgrading your Porch and Patio

At the end of the day, owning a home is a pretty big investment. So why not get the most out of that investment by using all the available space you have on hand. 

The best way to do that is by simply upgrading your porch or patio from an unused eyesore to a wow-inducing leisure area. If you tick all of the boxes above, you’ll have a great new space to entertain guests, spend time with the family, or just relax by yourself and get some alone time. 

To learn more about how you can enhance your deck or patio, contact our experienced team at Screenmobile today. We’ll be happy to sort through your ideas and find the perfect solution for your home.

I think we can all agree; no place gives us quite the same feeling of security and comfort as being in our home. It’s one of our most basic human needs.

Which is why it’s of the utmost importance to go the extra mile to make sure this homey feeling isn’t violated or disrupted. An increasingly popular way of doing this is by installing security doors to keep out those who would compromise the sanctity of your home. 

What is a Security Door?

What are security doors? You might be wondering. Put simply, they are exterior doors on your house that are reinforced with steel or aluminum to offer maximum protection from intruders.

The best security doors on the market are designed with numerous other security features, such as hidden hinges, smart door locks, and highly durable metals and meshes. 

Of course, just because you are installing a security door on your house doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice aesthetics for protection. If your security door is an eyesore, then it might bring down the overall value of your house. So it’s ideal to find a security door manufacturer that makes doors that complement your house’s charm and appeal.

Fortunately, there are many great options to choose from at ScreenMobile that can blend into your home’s décor. 

Additionally, high-quality security doors should also be weather and rust-resistant to ensure they have a long lifespan. Powder-coated and stainless-steel security doors are typically the best. Let’s take a closer look at some of your options. 

Stainless Steel Mesh Security Doors 

Many homeowners like to let the cool breeze and smell of fresh-cut grass waft into their homes during the warm summer months. But leaving the door swung open all day or simply having a cheap mesh screen door as the point of access to your home is more than a little risky. 

Thankfully, Screenmobile offers the best stainless steel mesh security doors to give you safety, security, and all the fresh air flow your home needs.

When purchasing a mesh screen door, it’s essential to choose one with the following security features:

• • Stainless steel mesh that is highly resistant to forced entry
  • A multipoint locking system
  • A strong aluminum frame

If you’re interested in more information and color options, look at the Screenmobile-Vista Security Screens Brochure.

Aluminum Framed Security Doors

Aluminum has come a long way since the days of being seen as only cheap, lightweight material. The heavy-duty aluminum alloy used in top-of-the-line security doors is typically six times stronger than standard steel and will remain rust-free forever, making them far and away the best value in a traditional-style security door. 

The latest aluminum security swinging screen doors offer an insect-tight fit – so no pests get in the house. An architectural grade aluminum powder-coated frame makes for a strong yet resilient door with double strengthened extruded corners. Browse the best aluminum security doors on the market.

Custom Decorative Security Doors

If curb appeal is at the top of the list, but you need the ultimate protection and peace of mind, you can find a custom-installed security door to fit almost any architectural style. Screenmobile offers a complete line of decorative security doors designed to enhance your home’s beauty, security, and functionality.

Some custom security door systems meet or exceed all applicable international or local standards, including:

• • Single or Double Installations
  • Security storm doors
  • Standard and custom sizes in 4-colors
  • Impact resistance
  • Cut resistance
  • Intruder resistance
  • Corrosion resistance
  • Child safe, 2-step emergency egress

Remember, no matter how beautiful your decorative security doors are, they’re only as good as their installation. This means finding an experienced and knowledgeable team for installation is paramount. There’s nothing worse than a misaligned door that doesn’t close right or allows pesky insects to find their way inside your home.

So if aesthetics are your primary concern about installing a new security door, Screenmobile has options that offer utility, safety, and curb appeal and make it a win-win-win. 

How to Pick the Best Security Door

Choosing the right security door depends on your specific needs. For example, do you live in a dangerous neighborhood with regular break-ins? Then, we’d recommend a stainless steel mesh security door. They offer the highest level of security and functionality, especially if you live in a warmer part of the country with lots of beautiful days to take advantage of.

Our security door options include:

• • Vista Security Doors
  • Titan Security Doors
  • Active Security Doors

Also, you need to take into account your budget. While we’d never recommend overspending on a door if you can’t afford it, we’d also caution you not to make any sacrifices on quality when it comes to a security door. Cheap doors with low-quality craftsmanship are almost guaranteed to show wear and tear, sometimes in just a matter of months. 

Conclusion

Reinforcing your home’s doors is a great investment. And you can do it without making your home look less appealing. In fact, a security door will likely add to your home’s value. With style-conscious options for those who value their home’s décor, you can’t go wrong with adding a security door to your home. 

If you’re still unsure what type of security door fits your specific needs and budget, or would like to inquire about a specific door, contact the Screenmobile team today, and we’ll gladly walk you through the process step-by-step.

We’ve all fallen victim to spending time cleaning windows, only for them to still look dirty because of dust and debris caught in the window screens. Window screens tend to be an overthought for most homeowners. Not only are they little details in a home, but the process of how to clean window screens can be foreign to most people. 

A common hack most people use for cleaning their window screens is simply vacuuming the dust off the surface, but this is only fixing the aesthetic of the screen. If you are looking forward to opening your windows to let in a nice summer breeze, you need to learn how to properly clean your window screens and how often to clean them. 

Why You Should Clean Your Window Screens 

Cleaning your window screens regularly is a good practice to maintain good air quality inside your house. When you open your windows for the first time of the year, there may be more particles flowing into your home other than fresh air. 

During the winter months, moisture and bacteria gather on your window screens and create unhealthy particles, even mold. Black mold can be found on window sills and screens if they are not regularly cleaned. This type of mold usually goes unnoticed, but it can cause or irritate infections, allergies, asthma, and other respiratory illnesses once inside your house. People with preexisting respiratory issues may become sick due to mold particles in the air. Mold can also cause musty odors and leave stains on walls and furniture. 

Cleaning your window screens means you are killing off any unwanted bacteria and eliminating dust particles that would otherwise drift into your home and contaminate your air. 

How Often You Should Clean Your Screens

Learning how to clean window screens is a great skill to have, but it goes to waste if you don’t know how often you should clean your screens. 

The frequency at which you clean your screens depends on your location and climate. If you live in a windy environment where debris and dust are more susceptible to blowing against your windows, you will want to clean your screens more regularly, about 2-3 times a month. If you live in a drier location with less wind, you can get away with cleaning your screens once a month. 

You should deep clean your screens when you first open your windows after the winter season to get rid of mold and dirt that might have built up. In the spring season, you should clean your screens more regularly as pollen particles will get trapped. 

If you are unsure how often you should clean your screens, a good rule of thumb is to clean your window screens as often as you clean your windows. If you clean your windows and do not clean your screens, the dirt on the screens is more likely to muddy up your newly cleaned windows. 

How to Clean Window Screens 

If this is your first time cleaning, you need to know the proper steps on how to clean window screens. Before you start, you should make sure your window screens are free of any damages and not in need of repairs. If you have any old screens, it’s better to replace them once they’ve reached their expired shelf life. 

Start cleaning your window screens with these steps:

Step 1. Remove your window screen from the frame.

If you are cleaning your window screens for the first time of the year, you will want to remove them from the frame to properly clean and disinfect them. This allows you to clean the screen, the frame, and the window sill of all dirt and mold that might be growing. 

Step 2. Mix a cleaning solution.

There are plenty of cleaning solutions on the market for cleaning windows. Professionals may use a specialized cleaning product, but if you are cleaning your window screens yourself, mixing 1/4 cup of all-purpose dish soap with 1/2 gallon of water will do the trick. 

Step 3. Scrub the window screen with a brush and cleaning solution.

Using a brush with soft bristles will suffice for this step. However, it is recommended to use a specialty window screen cleaning brush. After mixing your cleaning solution, gently scrub away all dirt and particles from both sides of your screen using the brush and cleaning product. 

Step 4. Rinse the screen using warm water.

Lay the screen flat and rinse all dirt and suds off the screen and frame using warm water. Make sure the water pressure isn’t too high, so you don’t damage the screen. 

Step 5. Let the window screen dry and replace it in the frame. 

Once you’ve properly cleaned your window screen, lay it on a clean flat surface and allow it to completely dry. Once it is dry, replace it in the frame. 

How to Clean Window Screens Without Removing Them 

If you don’t have the space to take your window screens out of their frames, or you aren’t cleaning them for the first time of the year, there are ways you can clean your window screens without removing them. 

The best way to clean your window screens while keeping them in the frames is lightly cleaning the surface with a soft vacuum, lint roller, magic eraser, or toothbrush. You can also pressure wash the screens, spray them with vinegar, or saturate them with a cleaning solution. Just make sure to aim outside or keep your window closed to protect the interior of your house. 

Repair or Replace Any Old Window Screens

Like anything in your house, window screens need to be properly maintained. Before you start cleaning your window screens, assess them for any damages or signs they are exceeding their shelf life. 

Broken screens can cause more harm than good, letting in pests and unwanted debris. Worn-down screens that need replacing or repairs should be handled appropriately by a screen professional.

If you’re yearning to relax in the beauty of your backyard or natural living space without being bothered by pests or intense climates, adding a three-season room to your home is the best solution. 

What is a three-season room? These featured spaces are an upgraded version of basic patio enclosures. Three season rooms are additions built onto houses enclosed with glass. The purpose of these enclosures is to create a relaxing environment with floor-to-ceiling windows to experience the natural environment surrounding its occupants while keeping them protected from harsh climates and pests. While most three-season rooms are a form of patio or porch, they can also enclose a simple section of yard space. 

Three-season rooms offer the perfect space for you to relax on comfortable furniture and take in nature’s beauty without worrying about damage caused by outdoor elements. But why invest in a three-season room over other enclosed outdoor spaces?

Here are five benefits of a three-season room.

Expands Your Living Space

One of the most noticeable benefits of having a three-season room is the expansion it gives your living space. Because three-season rooms are open and inviting spaces with plenty of natural light, homeowners tend to use the expansion as a gathering place. 

It’s a proven fact that being surrounded by nature and natural light improves your mood. Adding a three-season room gives you the perfect space to walk from your living room to a clean and enclosed space that is still immersed in the natural environment surrounding your house. The purposes this room can provide are endless. Allow young children a safe space to play in the sun or lounge on a loveseat while watching the sunset. 

If you’re looking to expand your house without paying for complete structural renovations, a three-season room can be the perfect addition to your living space. 

Adds Protection

Upgrading your patio or yard to include a three-season room offers the benefit of more protection over your indoor/outdoor space. You can enjoy nature in your enclosed space without being bothered by pests or weather changes. 

If you were to bask in the beauty of nature while fully exposed to the elements, it might still be enjoyable, but you would be at risk of sunburns, mosquito bites, or possible rainfall. A three-season room gives you the luxury of being outdoors without actually suffering from outdoor elements. 

The main difference between enclosed patios and three-season rooms is the screens used to line them. Enclosed patios use mesh screens, while three-season rooms use clear or tinted vinyl panels. This allows three-season rooms to be enjoyed in much more diverse climates than patio enclosures because they can better protect the interior from rainfall and debris. 

These enclosed rooms will not only protect you and your guests but your furniture too. You don’t have to worry about excessive rusting, fading, or breaking, usually when furniture is exposed to the outdoor elements. 

Various panels are available when building your three-season room, such as clear vinyl or shades that block out UV light or outside air particles. This design is the perfect solution if you want to experience spring blooms while having pollen allergies or those who want to bask in the sunlight without getting a sunburn. 

Adapts to Each Season

The greatest advantage three-season rooms present over traditional patio enclosures is the ability to enjoy the space year-round—depending on your location’s climate. 

Three-season rooms are praised by those who live in areas where it doesn’t get too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter. They give you more freedom to use the space in ways that screened patios would not, such as decorating with perishable furniture without having to worry about sun and rain damage. If you live in a location where the winters are cold and snowy, this room might not be the one most people gravitate toward in the colder months, but you can rest well knowing all the materials and occupants in that room will be safe. If you still want to feel a warm summer breeze throughout your room, simply open the windows and doors to let in the fresh air. 

If you are looking for space you can confidently enjoy year-round, consider investing in a three-season room in which you control the heating and cooling inside the room. 

Doesn’t Break Your Budget

Adding a more durable patio enclosure might sound like it’s going to exceed your budget, but three-season rooms can be very cost-effective. 

The labor put into building three-season rooms is very minimal as it does not require a foundation, insulation, or plumbing and heating systems. The only element needed is an anchored deck. 

If you are looking to eliminate your labor budget completely, there are options for three-season room kits available on the market. These kits allow you to erect your own three-season room on a budget. 

Keep in mind, if you choose to construct your own three-season room, there are a few difficulties that accompany DIY. Choosing a three-season room kit allows much more room for error in your construction. If you are not savvy with heavy crafting, you could spend more money trying to correct the mistakes you made the first time around. Hiring a service to build your three-season room guarantees you can relax while everything is done right the first time and all at once. 

The most expensive part of building your three-season room will be choosing the materials you would like to use. Porch screens and glass panels vary in pricing and can change your space’s purpose. You can also choose to fully carpet your three-season room and add any intricate details. 

Regular patio covers or deck covers can be customized into a three-season sunroom if you want. This is an excellent way to upgrade an existing feature of your home.

Adds Versatility to Your Patio Enclosure

Three-season rooms are an extremely versatile space in your house. You can use them as a traditional patio enclosure gathering space or get creative by crafting a sunroom. 

Three-season rooms are a type of sunroom when constructed for that purpose. This can be a great place to have an indoor green room with a plant collection or lounge space for warm days. If you already have a regular patio cover or deck cover and would like to turn it into a three-season sunroom, the only step is to add glass-paneled walls to surround the space. 

Three-season rooms offer an array of benefits to your home. If you’re looking to add an upgraded patio enclosure or sunroom addition to your living space, you don’t have to limit yourself to using it for the traditional family room purpose. Consider turning it into an indoor/outdoor gym, game room, or green room. Whatever the goal, enjoy the outdoor scenery while protected by your enclosed space.

Get started by contacting your nearest Screenmobile pro and get started on your home renovation project.

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Backyard patios and decks are genuinely wonderful ways to enjoy the fresh air and outdoors and serve as liaisons between the comfort of your home’s interior and nature’s beauty. Porch screens, on the other hand, can be polarizing backyard features. Some homeowners don’t mind or even notice porch screens. Others hate them, viewing them as distracting barriers to the outside world.

Depending on where you live, window and porch screens are necessary for three months out of the year when you’re sharing space with pesky mosquitoes. Some homeowners don’t mind or even notice porch screens because the latest deck screening technology is so transparent. However, some don’t want anything they deem obtrusive in their outdoor spaces. 

Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds with A Motorized Screen

What if there’s a product that offered the security of a screened-in deck or patio without the drawbacks? If you could enjoy insect protection without sacrificing your curb appeal, would you be interested? A motorized screen, or roll-down screen, is the answer. 

A motorized screen is an innovative system designed for flexibility and functionality. Motorized porch screens, such as Sunair, Phantom Screens, and Sun Control Retractable Shades, can be lowered or retracted with a button’s press using a motorized screen system. Instead of settling for one set configuration, you can customize your deck to fit the weather, season, and even your mood.

We custom design every motorized screen system, and they are guaranteed to fit the correct length no matter where they’re installed. Each screen is finished with a weighted bar to keep them in place.

You can select various fabric and screen options that can highlight or blend into your home’s decor and choose from different mesh textures and styles to offer the right coverage for your needs.

The Benefits of a Motorized Screen

Still not convinced? If you install a motorized screen system, you’ll enjoy:

Cooler temperatures, on demand. 

Using roll-down screens will block unwanted sunlight and help keep your deck or patio at a comfortable temperature. This means you’ll enjoy the space more, even in the heat of summer. Windows screens can even help regulate the temperature of your home. 

Protection from insects and weather. 

With a motorized screen, you can keep the pesky flies and mosquitos out during spring and summer for a more relaxing time enjoying your outdoor space. Retractable screens can also protect your furniture and other decor items from the sun’s UV rays.

Energy savings. 

Retractable screens can help save money on your utility bills. With motorized retractable screens deployed, less sunlight will enter your home during the hotter months, reducing the workload on your air conditioner. The opposite can work during winter months, when retracting the screens allows more natural sunlight into the home.

They increase the value of your home. 

Roll-down screens are often very popular with home buyers. Potential buyers can enjoy all the benefits of permanent screens with the visual appeal of hiding them. A retractable screen could also boost your home’s value during appraisal.

Customizable and elegant. 

The motorized screen’s housing is customizable and incredibly sleek. Each housing can be custom painted to achieve the look that is just right for your home. Show off the beauty of your deck, patio, or home without harming curb appeal.

Top-of-the-line automation. 

Today’s motorized screens are incredibly user-friendly and easy to use. Aside from the effortless push-button controls, you can adjust your roll-down screens to work entirely on their own. Options like Phantom Shades include sun and wind sensors that automatically drop or lower the shades when the light percentage hits a set threshold.

Custom options for any space. 

Screenmobile doesn’t just screen decks and patios. Whether you need a complete set of window screens, a door covering, or even a pergola or gazebo, there is a motorized screen option that has you covered. Our team can make your dream come true.

Cons of Motorized Screens

• Require a larger investment. Retractable screens are considerably more expensive than fixed screens. For this reason, people are more selective of where to install motorized screen systems. Porches and patios are popular choices because they offer the most usable space and flexibility.
• More moving parts. Motor screens have several moving parts, which means there will be several things to adjust if they stop functioning correctly. It’s likely best to call for professional help with a non-functioning screen.

There’s no reason to settle for anything less than the best when Screenmobile offers so many customizable options and services. When you’re ready to enjoy the best of both worlds with motorized screens or transform the look and efficiency of your home, give us a call or check out our free estimator. We have highly trained Screenmobile Service Technicians across the country ready to help.

Window screens may not be a feature in your house that has caught your attention—unless they’re a source of annoyance. Screens tend to be considered not as important for new homeowners, but choosing the right window screen material for your space can enhance your environment.

During the warmer seasons, screens make it possible for us to open the windows and welcome in the summer breeze. The right window screen material for a given room can invite in more natural light, defend against intruding pests, and cycle in the fresh air. 

But how do you know which type of material is best suited for your windows?

Here are a few factors to consider when choosing your window screen material. 

Choosing the Right Window Screen Material

Before you start purchasing your new window screens, you need to survey the space they’re going to inhabit. Not every material is compatible with every environment. Your screens may be put through wear and tear you aren’t anticipating, which can increase the likelihood of replacing them faster. 

Are you looking for increased natural airflow in your space? Then proper ventilation is a factor you should value in your screen material. There are plenty of insect screens that offer larger mesh sizes without having to sacrifice protection from pests. Ventilation is an essential factor if you are looking for porch screens that act as a protective shield to outside disturbances while still allowing sunlight and fresh air to filter through. 

Where are you located? Screens are not a one-size-fits-all product. There are different material types, and some might not be compatible with the climate you are in. If you are in a coastal climate, require water and rust-resistant materials. On the other hand, if you live in a windy climate that experiences flying debris, Tuff screens could be a better option for their durability. 

Do you value expansive views and outward visibility? Maybe you have indoor plants that need a lot of sunlight. Transparency in your window screens is a factor that can be overlooked. If you are looking to let in more natural light and reduce the visual barrier between your indoor and outdoor space, look for materials that have high transparency. 

The most important part of choosing your window screens is the style and material you will use. Keeping the prior factors in mind, you will choose which material best suits your location and intended use for your screen material. 

Fiberglass Screen 

Fiberglass is perhaps one of the most common materials used in window screens. 

Fiberglass screens are commonly used in residential and commercial properties because it is lightweight and does not corrode or rust. Fiberglass is also a very versatile material and can be sized for various projects. It is proficient at keeping bugs out while allowing air and natural sunlight to flow into a room. Unlike aluminum, fiberglass will become flat again if bent or dented. Fiberglass screens are an affordable option for replacement window screens.

On the other hand, fiberglass is not the most durable window screen material. It will stretch over time, needing to be replaced more often than aluminum. It is also more prone to tearing. 

Fiberglass can also be used for other projects such as pool cages and enclosures.  

Pet Resistant Screens/Tuff Screens

Everyone loves their pets. No one loves their pets destroying their screens. These heavy-duty pet-resistant screens designed to put up with the rough treatment your pet may dish out from time to time. The size of your pet and the damage that he or she causes will determine the best screen to fit your needs. Animal resistant screens give everyone a sense of ease knowing they will not have to replace screens every time one of their furry friends gets a little too rough or excited when they see you out the window.

The three most popular types of pet-resistant screens are Pet Screens, Tuff Screens, and Super Screens. 

Other premier pet products include quality heavy-duty dog doors and cat doors, and screen guards that are a barrier between your pets and your screens.

Solar Screening

Are you looking to limit the amount of sunlight your windows let in? Consider using solar screens for your space. 

Solar screens are perfect for windows that attract a lot of heat and sunlight. Their dark exterior blocks out the heat of the sun, absorbs excess heat, and provides additional privacy. Solar screening is an excellent option for cutting down air conditioning costs and protecting valuable furniture from fading with sun exposure. 

This screen material reduces natural light by 30-40%, which can be harmful to indoor plants or animals that enjoy the sunlight. Although they are more pricey than your typical fiberglass screens, they offer incredible benefits to the home. 

If you have west-facing windows that struggle against the beating sun, or your air conditioning bill is too high, solar screens are a great solution. They are mainly used on patios, porches, pool decks, and in warm climates.

Explore some solar screen options, including various colors and styles.

Coated Polyester

For any specialty screens that need to be reinforced with extra strength, coated polyester screens are the best choice. 

Coated polyester acts as a protective barrier not only to insects and debris, but against heavy objects as well. If you have issues with your pets tearing apart your current sliding screen doors, coated polyester acts as a tough pet screen replacement. It is also a great material to use in cold climates. The material repels moisture so it can’t be damaged by freezing temperatures. 

This screen material is more expensive than your standard fiberglass, but it is not replaced as quickly. Coated polyester is commonly used in sliding screen doors, low windows, and cold locations. 

Before purchasing your replacement window screens, keep in mind the necessary factors that will enhance your space. Choosing the wrong screen material could mean spending more money on repairs or replacements and not enjoying the atmosphere. But if you take your time to consider your window screen material options, you can transform your space and invite in your optimal climate. 

Common uses for coated polyester screens include:

Security Screens

Golf Ball Protection Screens

Animal and Pet Resistant Screens

The Screenmobile Difference

Screenmobile Service Technicians are courteous and always provide a professional experience. We understand that each customer has different needs when providing a service. We tailor our services to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

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