Common Causes of Window Screen Damage

Are you a homeowner who loves fresh air but struggles with damaged window screens? Do you want to know what causes holes in window screens?

Understanding the main reasons for window screen damage makes it easier for you to prevent these problems in the future. You’ll have the proper knowledge to protect your screens and windows while getting all the beneficial sunlight and fresh air you want.

That’s why we’ve gathered the most common causes down below. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about this issue and how to stop it from happening again!

Weather

Harsh storms are a typical culprit behind exterior window screen damage. The high-speed winds whip up debris and damage the screens. Branches, rocks, and dirt all weaken the integrity of your screen.

Hail and ice during winter are also at fault since they can dent the screen upon impact and tear holes into the material.

A single dent isn’t a concern, but as time goes on, those dents add up. Your screen will start to deteriorate as those dents turn into holes that grow larger with every storm that passes through.

Storm shutters are a great way to prolong the life of your window screens, especially if you live in a place that sees a lot of storms throughout the year.

UV Rays

We all know UV rays as the thing we need to worry about when we’re out in the sun for too long. However, it’s not only our skin that gets damaged by the sun’s rays.

A damaged window screen is often the result of extended time spent in direct sunlight. As your window screen continues to age, it’ll slowly get more damaged by the UV rays, causing it to warp and lose structural integrity. A small gust of wind could be enough to tear a hole into an old screen weakened by the sun.

If your screen is made of low-quality material, high enough heat from the sun may even melt parts of the mesh.

You’ll want to pay extra attention to the windows that face the sun for most hours of the day. They’ll need window screen repair more often than windows that stay in the shade. 

Extreme Cold

On the opposite end of the spectrum, winter nights can cause as much damage to your windows as strong UV rays. The drop in temperature ends up freezing the material of the screen, making it brittle and susceptible to breaking.

During sunny winter days, the screen may go from warm to cold in a matter of minutes. This constant temperature fluctuation wears down the material quickly.

This is why it’s always a good idea to think about replacing window screens once spring arrives!

Stretching

Does your screen fit well in its frame? Does it need to be stretched tight to fit the frame?

Stretching a window screen may seem like a good fix to an awkward fit, but it’s one of the easiest ways to create damage to the delicate mesh. You’ll end up needing to deal with window screen holes and other damage soon after installation.

Not all windows come in easy-to-find sizes, which is why custom window screens are an important investment if you have irregular windows. It may be a higher cost in the beginning, but you’ll save money in the long run since you won’t need to replace those screens every few months.

Damaged Frames

Sometimes the damage to your screens doesn’t start with the screens themselves. Instead, wear and tear starts from damage done to the frames holding the screens.

If you notice damage to your window, make sure to take a closer look at the frame of your window screen as well. A bent frame will pull a screen out of alignment, creating holes or weak points.

The screen may even pop out of the frame altogether.

Before you replace the screen, you’ll need to fix the frame first. Otherwise, the same problem will happen over and over again.

Animals

It’s not likely that a wild animal will attempt to get through your window screen. It’s your indoor pets that you’ll need to worry about when it comes to screen damage.

Cats, for example, love sitting at windows to look at what’s going on in nature. Sometimes, they’ll lay at the window sill and push up against the screen. Dogs also tend to try and push their noses up against the screen when they get excited about something outside.

This wears down the screen and provides less protection from outside elements. It’s better to provide your pets with alternative ways to get their nature kick!

People

It’s not only your pets that cause accidental damage to a window screen. If you have curious young children, they may poke at the screen with their fingers from time to time.

It’s also possible that you’ll cause damage to the screen whenever it’s time to clean it. If you’re not careful, it’s easy to press too hard or pull the mesh loose when you’re trying to wash the grime away.

Insects

Did you know that insects cause a lot of window screen problems? Grasshoppers, for example, can chew through a window screen. This is something you’ll want to watch out for right before winter since they’ll try to escape the cold by getting into your home.

Wasps are another concern since these insects have the jaw strength to chew through wood. A window screen is no match for them. When they want to force their way through your screen, they’ll find a way.

If you live in an area that has heavy insect seasons, it’s important that you invest in more robust screens to keep these pests out of your home.

Prevent Window Screen Damage by Installing the Best Screens

Not all window screens are made equal, and that’s why many of them are susceptible to window screen damage. Your best course of action is to install screens of the highest quality.

This way, no insect or storm will ever tear up your beautiful screens and prevent you from opening the windows!

Tired of holes in your screens? Make sure to check out how our custom window screens can make all of your window problems disappear!

Do you ever just want to sit on a lounger in your garden all day long and soak up the rays?

Did you just have a minor panic attack reading that?

Spending too much time in direct sunlight is dangerous. UV rays are very harmful to our skin and hair. We only need 30 minutes to soak up our recommended vitamin D allowance, which can be achieved with a school run, a drive to the office, or a quick run out to the shops.

Still, you don’t want to be locked up in your house all day, every day, especially when the sun is shining and inviting you out.

Sunrooms are the best solution for any homeowner worried about direct sunlight but still loves summer vibes. If you’ve ever wondered what is a sunroom and how you can get one too, then continue reading.

What is a Sunroom?

A sunroom is a room with a large number of windows that lets in as much natural light as possible. In these rooms, plants and furnishings are typically used as decor. In addition, sunrooms can be built on top of an existing patio to bring in natural light and ventilation. Sunrooms are popular home improvements because they increase a property’s value while also providing more space for relaxing, working, or reading a book. Sunrooms are also known as solariums, garden rooms, Florida rooms, or Three Season Rooms.

Why get a Sunroom?

A Sunroom is an extension of your home, like a covered terrace area where you can still enjoy being outside but without being bothered by harmful UV rays, strong winds, or pesky bugs. Instead, you get to relax in the natural light, feast your eyes on nature, and seclude yourself away from your daily household chores.

Benefits of a Sunroom:

• • Creates an extra room
  • Accessible from principal residence
  • Adds value to home property
  • Clear garden view
  • Natural light
  • Blocks wind
  • Prevents pests from entering your home

Your Sunroom can be custom-designed with french doors, and adequate window treatments to suit your personal needs.

Different types of Sunrooms

Like everything that exists, there are different types of sunrooms. It depends on your budget–how much you are willing to invest.

Sunporch

While a Sunroom is like an extra living room, a Sunporch is more outdoor. Often people decide to screen off their porches to enjoy still being outside without annoying mosquitos buzzing along for a picnic.

There are a lot of screens available. You can choose retractable screens or something more permanent. You can choose screens where you can enjoy your view, but nosy passersby can’t see. If this is an option that interests you, check out the different porch screens available on our website.

3-season Rooms

You can’t use a three-season room the whole year-round. There isn’t an HVAC system in place. If you live in a sweltering climate, you won’t be able to use this room in Summer as the glass walls will capture heat and make the inside unbearable. However, you can enjoy those winters in your three-season room.

For colder climates, you won’t be able to relax properly in a three-seasoned room without heating.

Ask yourself why you want this space and what purpose it will serve. We advise against creating a three-seasoned room for permanent, year-round use.

Learn the 5 Benefits of a Three Season Room.

4-season Rooms

This is the most expensive option on the list. However, a four-season room truly is an extension to your home where you have your HVAC system running. These rooms can efficiently serve as guest rooms, home offices, or second family rooms. You might even use it for an indoor swimming pool, accessible all year, depending on the size.

Four seasoned rooms are climate-controlled and custom-built for your comfort and home aesthetics.

Regardless of the type of sunroom addition you choose, know that you can select the frames and shades’ material, color, and design. You can also choose energy-efficient window treatments for your contribution to the climate.

Can I DIY my Sunroom?

If you are comfortable and skilled with building and construction, you can build your sunroom. You just need to be smart about where you choose to buy your materials and not be embarrassed to call a professional when needed.

Building your sunroom will give you more control and can be cheaper if you’re confident in your DIY skills. However, we advise against it for a first-time project. If you want to put your skills to the test before embarking on a large project like this, build a catio first!

How much do Sunrooms cost?

As mentioned above, there are different types of sunrooms to complement your budget. Whatever you put into your sunroom will come back to you as an added value to your property. They are also great for curbside appeal, which could boost the local market.

You also need to consider the final size–how much space will your sunroom take up. How many windows need covering, how much area needs to be cooled/heated, etc. Contact us for an estimate today; we are quick to respond.

Get a professional; call Screenmobile!

At Screenmobile, our technicians are industry professionals. We come to you with all the options so you can see for yourself, from the comfort of your own home, the different options available. We are here to help and advise you to make the best decision for your home needs, budget, and home aesthetic.

Any place, any screen, any need. Give us a call.

A classy, inviting, and simple look. One that’s bound to attract clientele and impress business partners. Whether you have an office, a restaurant, or a south-facing storefront, you need to invest in screens and shades.

The benefits of installing a screen or shade on your establishment are ones to trust:

• • Energy efficient
  • An extra layer of security
  • Blocks UV rays
  • Reduces glare
  • Retractable and motorized options
  • Variety of colors, fabrics, and designs
  • Keeps interior cool (with exterior option)
  • Aids ventilation
  • Prevents pest and bugs

We will go into these points in this blog, and you’ll finish with a confident decision.

How to improve a space with commercial window screens?

If you don’t have window shades, you likely have slatted blinds. They’re a nightmare for any office, store, or restaurant. They get dirty quicker with the high traffic and weaken with the constant use of many hands. How well would you trust an establishment with dirty, broken, crooked blinds?

Screens and window shades operate smoothly. Have them internally or externally installed with a finish that complements your facade/decor. And the best part? They’re more energy-efficient and easy to clean. So let’s dive into that.

Energy-efficient screens

Screens help regulate the temperature inside your establishment and reduce electrical use. Lower the shade to block the hard sunlight coming in without disrupting the natural light in your establishment or your view—no more fluorescent lights at 3 pm high-summer time. Add solar screen panels that you remove during the winter months. These screens can reduce the temperature by 15°, easing your AC use.

Every business owner is looking to reduce their overheads, and it seems like commercial window screens and shades are the solutions.

Can I use screens for my business patio?

Are you a chic restaurant owner with an outdoor space and a line of customers down the street? Well, if you want to be, consider installing screens and shades on your patio windows. Open for business, closed to flying bugs.

Often a restaurant is chosen because of its location: its spectacular views of the Hudson River or the LA skyline, its proximity to a fountain, like in Rome, or on the plaza of a university where students come to sit and watch out for friends. Outdoor living is made possible with commercial patios.

When the sun hits hard, it’s blinding and uncomfortable. You have a couple of tables empty and customers who are bothered. However, if you close the patio, they will miss out on their spectacular views.

Installing outdoor patio shades will block the sunlight while maintaining the view. In addition, they will block against UV rays, which are damaging to your health. And they can be motorized so open and close as the passing sun allows with the simple touch of a button.

Additionally, motorized screens on the patio increase the number of tables they can comfortably seat people at. The screens are also great at knocking down a breeze so it’s not windy on a restaurant patio. And on cold nights, or during the winter months, the screens can also be used to retain heat.

A motorized solar screen will accomplish three things, sun protection, and breeze control, and helps prevent heat from escaping during winter months when you have the heaters going.

Screenmobile also provides awning and sunbrella options if you’re interested.

How can screens boost employee productivity?

Employees have similar needs to restaurant clientele. They need to be comfortable, with good light and a steady temperature. Becoming distracted or uncomfortable because of sun glare is very inconvenient for an employee–they can’t just up and move their desks or work areas.

Installing large format screens and shades can have your office windows covered, improving privacy and comfort, and helping trim some of that air conditioning bill. In addition, the ease of use will reduce fidgeting with blinds.

Happy employees = happy customers.

Can I open and close the windows with a screen?

The screens that we professionally install at Screenmobile are highly user-friendly. If you wish to open your window, then no problem. We encourage you to let the natural breeze circulate in your commercial space; it will help you reduce your AC costs!

It’s crucial to open your windows at least daily and let the fresh air push out the stagnant air that has been circulating. With retractable screens, you can easily access your windows and have your shade in place again before a fly or mosquito even realizes it can sneak its way in. That’s right, with Mesh tec® screens in place, you can relax knowing you won’t be bothered by flying buggers.

How secure are commercial window shades and screens?

You can opt for outdoor shades that add an extra layer of security to your efforts. Security screens are strongly made with reinforced framing and come with a multi-locking system.

But if security is your number one priority, nothing beats security shutters. Law enforcement representatives say shutters are the maximum deterrent against unwanted guests, causing them to look around for an easier target.

• • Made from robust and durable material
  • Prevents intruders from breaking in
  • Auto-locking features
  • Resists flying/thrown objects
  • Encourages airflow while keeping valuables safe
  • Cut resistant
  • Blocks harmful UV rays

Make your choice today.

As you can see, screens and shades for commercial windows and patios are available. You’re encouraged to invest in these screens: boost employee morale and customer satisfaction, and provide an extra layer of security and comfort to your building.

All options come in various styles, fabrics (for drop shades), colors, and finishes. It’s for you to choose what you prefer.

Screenmobile can advise you and will also professionally install your screens. We pride ourselves on our customer service, so contact us today and take the first steps to your new screens and shades.

Choosing energy-efficient window coverings is a win-win: you save money on your bills, and our planet breathes better by using fewer resources.

You might think that your individual efforts won’t affect Earth significantly, but one household at a time makes a huge difference.

And your wallet will be happier too.

If you’re reading this blog, the question you’re asking now is, which window coverings are the best option for your home?

This blog will outline the different options available to you and how they will help you reduce your energy bills. So, keep on reading.

What type of window covering is most energy-efficient?

There are different window treatments available, but your home decor and budget will determine which is best for you:

• • Window blinds
  • Window shutters
  • Window shades
  • Window screens
  • Storm screens
  • Curtains
  • Roller shades

These drop shades cover both interior and exterior shades. Consider how window treatments can block up to 99% of harmful UV rays.

Window blinds

Blinds are interior coverings with many advantages. They keep rooms cool in the summer, so you don’t need to pump your AC while offering you privacy from street-facing rooms. Blinds come in various patterns and colors so you can complement your room’s decor.

Window shutters

Shutters are perfect in a more traditional home design. They are functional and versatile and are available in slatted or Venetian styles. You can have exterior shutters that close horizontally, giving a beautiful aspect to your home’s curbside appeal.

Window shades

Shades differ from blinds in that they are generally one piece of fabric. Easier to maintain and last longer. Roman shades gather at the top and offer an exquisite charm during the day while offering complete privacy at night while the lights are on.

Window screens

Screens cover larger window spaces and can either be exterior or interior. They are often retractable, and the material used helps you ventilate your home while keeping bugs and insects out. This helps save you money on AC bills during the summer months.

Storm screens

If you live in an area prone to storms, then you might as well hit two birds with one stone. Storm screens are hardier and more durable and will protect your home from strong winds and flying objects. They also offer shade from the glaring sun during the day and help keep rooms cooler.

Curtains

Curtains do help against hot air from escaping through your windows. 25-30% of heat loss and heat gain happens because of your windows. Although not the optimal option (it collects dust and isn’t 100% effective), curtains are affordable and help keep your home warmer during the winter months.

Roller shades

Roller blinds do precisely that, roll. There’s no bunching of material on top, so they are easier to keep clean. They complement your home design, too. However, cats love to play with the pulley chain, so consider that when choosing your interior window treatment.

How much energy do window coverings save?

As mentioned above, between 25% and 30% of heat is lost through your window. That’s a quarter of your heating efforts literally out the window. And in Summer, a staggering 76% of heat from the sun enters your home once it hits your window glass panes.

Consider installing exterior window coverings to reduce heat gain if you live in a hot climate.

Are curtains more energy-efficient than blinds?

Blinds are more energy-efficient than curtains. Blinds are fitted into place and stay in the position you choose. Drapes are loose and could allow heat to escape along the sides, top, and bottom. You should also consider your household pets or kids who like to play hide-and-seek.

You pull down your blinds, flop onto the couch, and throw on Netflix–you’re tired, and now you can relax.
You shut your curtains, flop onto the couch, and throw on Netflix–Rex, your dog, runs behind the curtains, chewing his toy. The drapes are constantly shifting, disturbing the tranquility of your space.

What can I cover my windows with to keep the heat out?

At Screenmobile, we advise an exterior window treatment to keep heat out. Heat gain occurs the moment the sun touches your glass-paned windows. By installing external screens, you immediately reduce your heat gain.

Exterior shades are efficient window coverings that will keep your home cool in hotter months. You can reduce your dependency on your AC. By choosing invisible screens, like Phantom, you can keep your view, ventilate your home, prevent pests from entering, and guard your privacy from neighbors passing by. These types of energy-efficient window treatments encourage natural lighting, contributing to your energy savings.

Your next steps

Now that you know what types of energy-efficient window coverings are available, it’s for you now to give us a call. You don’t have to be 100% sure of the type of window treatment that will fit best on your window frame or if an exterior or interior window treatment will contribute more to your energy savings.

At Screenmobile, we are proud of our extensive product knowledge and are more than happy to advise you. Contact us for an estimate today. We’ll call to set the appointment, always arriving on time. You can browse the different brands and materials we carry in our van and set up a further appointment for the installation.

Start saving today with energy-efficient window coverings.

Screens and shades are affixed to your windows by a screen frame. The frame is an integral part of the whole picture to ensure your window screen:

• • Stays in place.
  • Fits tightly.
  • Lasts longer.
  • Complements your home decor

Installing a window or door screen is a technical process. It’s why you should always hire a professional: we avoid unnecessary damage to your window and door frames.

The same goes for a replacement screen. 

However, DIY enthusiasts, like you perhaps, want to know what’s the best window screen frame solution. Whether you’re installing a standard fiberglass screen, porch screening, or a heavy-duty commercial screen door, we’ve got you covered. 

This blog will get into the nitty-gritty of the different door and window screen frames available on the market. Let’s get right to it. 

How to know which frame is best for your needs?

Consider your wardrobe a moment: you’ve got outfits for the office, for lounging about, for gardening, golfing, and a meal out. Screen frames are similar. You have screen frames suitable for the following:

• • Residential windows
  • Patios
  • Catios, for pets
  • Bathrooms
  • Commercial screens
  • Coastal locations
  • Skylights
  • Pools
  • Crawlspace covers
  • Extra security

You first need to define your screen’s primary use. 

The journey in choosing your window screens is a beautiful one. You will dive into a pool of options available to discover the perfect fit for your home and needs. And your journey can begin right here with Screenmobile’s official blog.

The information can be overwhelming if you don’t set a goal in mind.

We’ve created a case study to enable you to choose correctly: 

PJ needs to install:

Window shades to prevent sun glare while he’s working in his home office, Solar shades to reduce harmful UV rays entering his home, Solar screen material to support ventilation and reduce AC costs, Heavy-duty pet resistant screens, and Security doors to prevent intruders from breaking in. 

From this list we can see that PJ will need three different types of window frames:

• • Rolled aluminum frames 
  • Extruded aluminum frames
  • Security Screen Frames

Rolled Aluminum Frames 

These are the most common frames used. Like everything in commerce, there are cheap and better versions. 

Most manufacturers use roll-formed aluminum with plastic corners. They’re inexpensive, easy to manufacture and keep costs down. (Home Depot will use these thin-walled roll-formed frames)

Cons: They’re flimsy, will bow, and weaken over time; the corners lack reinforcement.

At Screenmobile, we use thicker-walled rolled aluminum frames with metal corner keys and mitered corner pieces. They hold their shape longer, keep the screen tighter, and have a greater shelf expectancy than the manufacturer’s models.

Extruded Aluminum Frames

Heavy duty or extruded frames are great for the correct application, like high-traffic areas. Sliding screen doors and swinging screen doors are a must for extruded frames. Porches and patios on the larger side would also require extruded frames to hold the screens tight for longer and withstand stronger weather conditions. Extruded window screens are a bit overkill if it’s just for keeping bugs out.

Security Screen Frames

When you’re worried about security and safety, you need a screen that will provide both. It starts with a security screen frame that’s a very heavy-duty frame. Then you add stainless steel mesh to make a cut-resistant security screen built to keep you safe for the years to come.

So you can see now how PJ needs a variety of different window screen frames. We advise you to list the various screens you require and their locations to get started on your buyer journey. 

Other screen frames on the market

There are different door and window screen frames that you might be interested in for residential or commercial purposes.

Rolled vinyl frames

Although aluminum is strong and will last longer, exposure to salt from the sea corrodes and damages it.

Vinyl is the best option in this case. Vinyl won’t last as long in rigidity and structure, but it won’t rust and fade as quickly as aluminum. Just ask Bob Vila.

The question you need to consider is: do you want durable frames that will look worn after a few years, or do you want frames to look good until you can budget newer ones?  Many homeowners will choose the latter, wishing to maintain their curbside appeal. 

Standard Bug Frame

A thicker more durable option that’s great for windows and small door openings. This screen frame is used with a standard bug screen to stop insects and critters from entering your home. You may want to consider swapping this out if you have pets or kids and need something a little bit stronger.

Lip Frame 

These are for those complicated window frames – there really is something for everything out there. The lip allows a more straightforward installation into larger window frame channels. 

Standard Sun Frame

These frames accommodate heavier materials, like sun and solar screens. They measure  1” x 7/16”, as standard screen size. 

As Dorothea Hudson, home improvement expert with Clearsurance.com, says, “The main characteristics in a window to evaluate are the size of the frame, the gauge of the frame, style of the frame, material, and color of the frame.”

What are window screens frames made of?

Window screens come in the following materials:

• • Aluminium
  • Vinyl
  • Fiberglass
  • Wood
  • Steel

It boils down to what your home is currently built with, existing door and window frames, your budget, and your curbside appeal. 

Window Screen Frame Color Options

The beauty of Screenmobile is how you can customize your screen needs. Have your screen frame the same color as your home decor. We have on hand six standard colors but custom colors can be ordered. We won’t be able to do that on-site, but that shouldn’t discourage you from asking nonetheless. 

Contact Screenmobile to discuss your screen needs

As always, we are but a short few clicks away. Contact us to discuss your project or emergency, and we’ll come to you with a selection for you to choose the best window screen frame for your needs. Once you’ve decided on what you’d like, we’ll come back to install your screens professionally. 

Any place, any need, any screen. Give us a call.