Screened-In Patio Buyers Guide

Sitting out and enjoying outdoor living can be one of the best things about your property. Not only do you get revitalized by the fresh, dust-free air, but you also get to change things up and relax in a space with natural light and, generally, away from the TV. Outside spaces are perfect for catching up with family and friends or just sitting back and enjoying a book or newspaper.

However, there can be a few issues that go along with enjoying an outdoor patio or porch area, namely the bugs that annoy or bite you, as well as, depending on your region and home orientation, direct sunlight. Both of these factors can significantly detract from the full enjoyment of your property’s features.

Advantages of Opening Up a Comfortable Outside Space

Fortunately, the solution isn’t too complicated. Screened-in patios or porches can give you full access to your outside spaces and let you enjoy outdoor living. Here’s why:

Bug Excluder: One of the main advantages of screened-in patios is how they separate you from all the insects that either want a piece of you or are just incredibly curious about you and your food, especially with lights on when dusk falls. Evening insect invasions can cause significant discomfort and ruin any idea of a relaxing time, but a small bit of home improvement to install a screened porch or patio and you can claim that space for yourself again.

Sun Protection: Depending on the orientation of your house, especially in the sunnier areas of the country, mid-day sun can be very hard to deal with, both for your skin and eyes. It also starts to fade furniture and coverings, as well as books or pictures that might be around too. A screened-in patio, using the right kind of screen fabric, can considerably reduce glare and even UV rays, protecting you and allowing you to enjoy your outside space at any time of day.

Dust and Debris: Unsurprisingly, with open types of porches and patios, pretty much anything can blow in. This outside clutter usually comes in the form of leaves, dust, and bits of plants which leave residue around the floor and your furniture and can take a lot of time to clean. Having a screened-in patio keeps your space free of the worst of outside material settling in your home which is important for stopping a build-up of debris, especially during seasons when the area is not in use as much.

Privacy: Being outside your own four walls doesn’t just expose you to insects and nature, but to anyone who may be passing by too. While the purpose of sitting outside on a porch or patio can often be to interact with the neighborhood, it’s also nice to be able to maintain some privacy on your own property. With a screened-in patio, different types of screens can offer different effects, ranging from virtually clear to completely shaded, allowing you to pick the level of privacy you want, which may differ at the front or the back of the house.

Pets: Animals love to be outside, but it’s not feasible to let them run free around the neighborhood. By installing a screened-in patio with a pet-resistant screen, your furry friends can also enjoy the cooling breeze of being outside without actually having to leave the safety of your home.

Establishing Your Screened-In Patio Needs

Screened-in patios and porches can deliver so much for your enjoyment of your property and also add to its value, but before you get to work, it is good to establish what exactly you’re looking for. It can help to ask yourself some of the following questions:

• How big is the space I want screened in?
• Will I want to use it through four seasons or just three?
• What are the environmental factors in my area I want to keep off my porch or patio?
• Will the patio or porch need roofing for a full enclosure?
• How will my pets (if you have any) react to the screens?
• What kind of budget are you looking at?
• Is extra privacy a concern?

Assessing Your Outside Screening Options

After you’ve established your screened-in porch or patio needs, you can start matching them up with your options. In this day and age, there are a wealth of options for screened-in spaces allowing you to create your dream patio or porch, one that you’ll be able to get great enjoyment and utility out of for years to come. Let’s have a look at what you can install:

Screen Fabrics: There are a number of different types of fabric for your screened-in patio or porch, each providing a different function or look. A standard option is polyester or fiberglass screen mesh, which can come in different apertures depending on how much air you want flowing or which type of insects you’re worried about. Sun-control screens with UV protection are also available, as well as pet-resistant screens that your pets won’t be able to damage. These can all also be fitted in different ways, creating walls or sliding doors or extra weather resistance if necessary.

Read our blog on How to Choose the Right window Screen Material.

Colors: The frames for a screened-in patio or porch come in a variety of colors so you can perfectly match the materials to your existing furniture or the feel of the house. Classic looks such as cool white or stained wood have now been supplemented with other standard options so you can really design your dream outdoor space.

Seasons: Depending on your location, you may be lucky enough to have a mild enough winter that you don’t need to consider winterizing your screened-in patio, but for many in the country, that’s not the case. Whether you are looking for a three-season or four-season space will affect the materials that should be used, and wind strength needs to be taken into account as well. A winterized space can utilize additional heavy-weather panels made from vinyl or rolled-up PVC, while poly-carbonate storm panels can protect your property during heavy winds.

Conclusion

Being able to get full use of your outside spaces, like porches and patios, increases your enjoyment of your property, is better for your health, and adds to your property’s value. Unfortunately, insects, the weather, and even your neighbors can detract from this enjoyment which is why installing a screened-in patio or porch can create your dream relaxation or entertaining space, maximizing what you’re doing with your property.

Nowadays, there are a whole host of options for how to create your perfect screened-in patio or porch. This includes the fabrics, colors, and function of your screened space. To find out more about how you can open your property up to the outside without the bugs, sun, or rain, why not get in touch with your local Screenmobile operator for a free estimate.

It is estimated that over 65% of US homes that are for sale come with a porch. Yet many people still view the porch as a mere entrance to the home. But do you know the innovative ways in which you can use it?

Once screens are added, they can function as a second room, adding more living space to the property. Read on as we discuss the essential screened-in porch ideas you must know about. 

What Are Screened in Porches?

A screened-in porch is a structure applied to the outside of the home. Instead of having open areas like a standard porch, it has screened windows across it. This can prevent insects, debris, and even adverse weather from entering the porch and ruining the level of comfort inside. 

There are several different porch designs and builds. When screens get added, the options multiply again. Everything from light-blocking coatings to mechanical mechanisms is available. 

Picking Your Screen

When building your porch, it is important to “screen” your screen type. Each type of screen has advantages and disadvantages that should be carefully considered. 

Fiberglass

Fiberglass mesh is the most common material used for porch ideas. It is very low cost and takes away the glare from the sun. Though it does not crease like metal coverings, it remains extremely flexible and is easy to install. 

The disadvantages are that it tears more easily than other materials and stretches. It comes in a range of dark colors, though black takes off the most glare. 

Vinyl-Coated Polyester

Polyester is a popular material used for Roll Down Screens and fabric structures. It is coated with vinyl to give it extra strength and durability while retaining its stretch and flexibility. It is a low-cost material ideal for screens. 

Synthetic Solar Screens

Synthetic solar screens are designed to keep the sun’s harmful UV rays from your outdoor space. They are made from PVC-coated polyester that acts as a window tint. This reduces how much sunlight gets through. Your porch is kept temperate as a result, and you are protected from the harmful damage sun. 

Motorized

Motorized screens take the effort out of the opening and closing of your porch. When the time comes, and you no longer need the protection of your screens, you can simply hit a button and retract them. 

Screened in Porch Ideas

Once you have your perfect screened-in porch, you just need to decide what to do with it. You can just go classic and put comfortable rocking chairs there for relaxation. However, many people are choosing to go one step further and make the porch an extension of their living space. 

1. Comfortable Furniture

Outdoor furniture is not always synonymous with comfort. However, when you have a porch covering and screens to protect your furniture, you can use indoor items outside. One of the best-enclosed porch ideas is to fill it with the same furniture you would in your living room, including comfortable sofas, coffee tables, and even bookshelves. 

2. A Pool Table

Have you ever wanted a pool table in the home but never had the room? A screened-in porch can provide the space you need. But your entertainment area does not have to end there.

The porch can house air hockey tables, arcade machines, or even a classic pinball. Add some social seating and even a small bar and you have the ideal recreation area.

3. Dining Area

Another way to bring the inside to the exterior is to bring your dining area onto the porch. Everyone loves alfresco dining, and with the introduction of screens, you can enjoy it while keeping the bugs at bay. Pick a warm summer evening and pour a crisp glass of white wine to go with your meal, then serve your favorite summer foods. 

This also provides a great place to cater for your outdoor events. If you have a BBQ planned or a pool party, the porch can be a great place to lay out all of your salads, drinks, and condiments.

4. Work Station

The move to remote work seemed like a dream come true for many. Yet the reality is that most people ended up short on space, huddled on a multifunction dining table while the family moved around them. A shuttered porch lets you have a beautiful outdoor workspace that protects you from the elements while providing the fresh air you need. 

5. Plants

One way to blend the lines between where the house begins and ends is to use plants. Native ones with splashes of color will add green to your porch, letting the yard creep into the living space. Don’t be afraid to mix it with indoor items either, such as area rugs and rocking chairs in natural materials. 

6. Pet Patio

A pet patio is a great way to give your pets the outdoor space they need without letting them loose in your yard. Place kennels, beds, cat trees, and all of their favorite toys out there so they can enjoy a space to themselves. Add a ceiling fan to keep them cool and make sure they have plenty of snacks and water. 

7. Outdoor Handrails

Handrails add a touch of class to your porch, making it look like an expensive hotel or art gallery. Outdoor hand rails can come in a wide range of materials, including glass, aluminum, and even cables. Handrails can be integrated with screened-in porches and are very low maintenance. 

Improving Your Porch

Now you know these screened-in porch ideas, you can think about the best use for yours. If you don’t have one already, then speak with an expert. You may be able to add a lot of living space for less than you think. 

Screenmobile should be your first stop for porch screens. We have a range of solutions for all your needs. Contact us here to begin the ultimate upgrade on your porch. 

There are many types of window shade options, and choosing the correct fabric is essential in your home renovation project. You’ve already decided you need screens, but you have a specific reason. The devil is always in the detail, and your screen fabric is no exception.

 You want something that will complement your home decor, bear the elements, and be strong enough to resist pets, intruders, critters, and/or insects.

But perhaps you’re not a professional and find yourself incessantly browsing the internet. You’re searching for that blog of all blogs that explain to you the intricacies of the different fabrics available for window screens.

You can put your mouse to rest because you’ve found the right place.

In this blog, we’ve got you covered… so you can cover your windows correctly and beautifully.

Keep on reading!

What are Window Shades?

Window shades are window treatments installed to improve the quality of your home and living. Depending on the area you live, you may choose shades for:

• Blocking sun glare and harmful UV rays
• Encourage ventilation and oxygen recycling
• Prevent pests and critters from entering 
• Act as a layer of security to stop intruders from entering
• Reduce heat gain
• Increase the energy efficiency of your home

These are convenient reasons to choose window shades over traditional drapes. They are custom installed and have a tidy finish to them.

You’re in your home. Following tradition, you hang drapes over your windows. They’re constantly agitated by the wind, blowing dust particles throughout your home. Your cats like them, ripping your beautiful fabric. You close them to stop the sun’s glare and find yourself sitting in the dark on a hot summer’s afternoon.

Drapes are no longer the best option. Shades, however, fit in nicely with your decor. They open up your space and allow the sunlight to pour in without bugs pestering you or UV rays harming you, your family, and your pets.

Why Choose Window Shades?

As touched on above, there is a long list of reasons to choose window shades. Let’s get into more detail here:

Glare Protection

Whether you’re trying to watch TV, work from home with a screen, or are busy cleaning and cooking, the glare from the sun is annoying and potentially dangerous. Have you ever walked across your kitchen and became temporarily blinded due to the sun streaming in? What if you have a knife in your hand with your dog running under your feet?

Sun glare can also be frustrating when affecting screen visibility on TVs and laptops. That’s your work productivity decreased and relaxation time cut.

Some window shades will allow you to continue your day as usual without the sun’s glare. These shades won’t block your view, nor will they stop natural light from brightening up your home.

UV Blocking

Ever since discovering the hole in the Ozone Layer in the ’90s, we’re all clued to how harmful the sun’s UV rays are. You wear sun cream to protect your skin; you buy specialist clothes and sunglasses to prevent UV rays from touching you. Now you can protect your home, too.

More than 50% of UVA rays can pass through the glass of your windows! So while you’re sitting having lunch, while your kids are quietly playing in their room, or your pet is harmlessly basking in the sun heat, UV rays are damaging you and them. You can shut all your drapes and shutters and live like hermits in the dark, or choose a window treatment fabric designed to block UV rays. We prefer the latter.

You can choose fabrics that complement your home’s interior or exterior design thanks to modern design standards. They are easy to install and keep clean and have many secondary benefits, too. 

Maintain your view

The dealbreaker for choosing window screens is your ability to keep your view. Many brands now offer high-tech designs that stop the unwanted from entering while still offering you your beautiful view. 

Many traditional roller blinds and drapes cover your whole window. During the day this isn’t very attractive. With many people now working from home and homeschooling, you’re spending more daytime in your house.

Check out Phantom Screens if you’re curious about how it works – sun glare, UV rays, and insects are prevented from coming in with continued ventilation and your view intact. And they can be customized to complement your interior design, to boot.

Shade material deciding factors: 

Let’s jump into the nitty-gritty here and dissect each factor that will help you choose what’s best for you, your family, and your home.

Interior or exterior

There are different window treatments available for internal purposes and exterior purposes. Your reasons may vary depending on your needs, and your choice will affect fabric choice. For example, exterior shades are more effective at reducing heat gain but need to be heavy-duty to withstand the elements. 

Interior window shade options promote light-filtering, like roller shades.

Light Vs. Dark Colors

The color of the fabric is essential, depending on the position of your window. If you intend to reduce sun glare, choosing a darker screen will be the optimal option. Certain more expensive brands provide dark color screens that still allow you to keep your view.

However, if your screen is up to repel bugs and resist strong winds, you can choose lighter, neutral colors. Many people would still prefer a lighter color, not wanting the dark shades to be visible from the street.

Openness Differences 

Different meshes are available to accommodate your needs. Reach out to your local Screenmobile technician for assistance, but know that you can have your screen:

• Deter flying insects
• Encourage ventilation
• Resist flying debris
• Block solar glare and harmful UV rays
• Energy efficient (reduce heat gain)
• Security reasons
• Increase your view while all the above.

Blackout Vs. Open Fabrics 

Blackout fabrics are trendy for room darkening, like home cinemas and bedrooms. The material is thick and doesn’t let any light through, allowing you to enjoy movies during the day and sleep without being bothered by outdoor lights – neighboring exterior lights, street lamps, and passing vehicles.

Open fabrics allow you to enjoy your view, ventilate your home, and so on, as listed above.

Manual or Motorized

This is where we get technical. Motorized screens are becoming very popular now that homes are evolving with smart technology. You can control your heating, AC, and interior lighting; heck, you can even have robotics clean your home with a button on your smartphone – why not your window screens, too?

You’re in the home office working, and as the day goes on, the sun moves. When that glare hits your screen, you get frustrated. You’re in a highly productive state of mind and wish not to stop. A motorized screen allows you to control your window shade from your desk chair without getting up and manually lowering your blind.

Or you have your elderly mother-in-law in the spare room, and she wants to take a nap. She can easily control the blind from the comfort of her own home. 

Needless to say, motorized screens are a bit more expensive. There is nothing ‘wrong’ with manual screens – they work just as well. All they lack is the comfort a motorized screen offers.

We can choose together.

Just know that options exist, that it’s never a one-size-fits-all solution. You can even choose different window treatments for different sides of your home! It all boils down to your needs, usually based on your home location and positioning.

If you’re not 100% sure or desire a professional second opinion, then your local Screenmobile technician is capable of assisting you. 

Every household needs to improve its budget, and buying cheaper quality products is not always the best solution. Not for the planet, at least. 

You can look beyond cutting costs with your shopping lists and after-school activities. Take a look at the bigger picture: your house. Have you ever considered installing energy-saving solar window screens?

It’s very likely why you’re here: you wish to understand how exactly solar screens improve home energy efficiency. 

We’ll cover (nearly) everything you need to know, from what are solar screens to optimal times to use them to save costs on your energy bills.

Let’s jump right in.

What are solar screens?

Solar screens are window treatments that work against the sun. They are designed specifically for homes in areas with low cloud coverage, regions where the sun is in the sky more times than not. Their design is to protect you and your family, including your pets.

Solar shades can provide you with substantial savings on cooling costs. There are different types available, so you can choose the treatment that best complements your home decor, budget, and needs. 

• • Fixed panels
  • Motorized screen
  • Roller screens

To ensure the highest energy efficiency, opt for external solar shades. Interior treatments aren’t as effective in reducing heat gain as exterior shades. 

Reasons Why Solar Screens Improve Home Energy Efficiency

The following list will boost your energy efficiency efforts while providing peace of mind and comfort. Your home is your oasis, your sanctuary. If the sun is your concern then solar screens are your answer. 

Solar screens:

1. Block harmful UV rays.
2. Prevent glare from strong, unhindered sunlight.
3. Reduce heat-gain. 
4. Minimize dependency on AC.
5. Pest prevention method.
6. Maintain longevity for carpets, furniture, and hanging art. 

Block harmful UV rays

UV radiation is a source of major health problems in humans. We should be limiting how much time we spend in direct sunlight, even while in the comfort of our own homes. Sprawled on your sofa for an afternoon snooze is not a delightful experience when the sun hits your back. 

Correct window treatments will block UV rays from infiltrating your home, family, and pets. 

Prevent glare

Glare is not just a reflection bothering your work, kids’ homework, or daytime soap operas. Glare is when too much sunlight is present, which impairs your vision momentarily. Most notably dangerous while driving, glare can also cause discomfort in the home. 

Ever walk across the kitchen to grab a glass of water and become suddenly blinded by the light? This temporary loss of sight can unbalance you, especially risky for the elderly who could fall and easily break a bone.

Reduce heat gain

The heat increases in your home the moment the sun hits your windows. Factor in the already sweltering temperature and before you know it you’re blasting the AC. Running your air conditioning hikes up your energy costs.

Solar screens reduce heat by up to 15% when installed on the exterior of your house.

Minimize dependency on AC

It’s nice to walk into a cool room after being outside under the hot summer sun. We experience it when shopping, so why not recreate the experience for our own homes? Many people do, but it’s not an energy-efficient solution for the home. 

By blocking the direct sunlight that enters your home through windows, and reducing heat gain, you can increase the temperature on your AC settings. 76% of sunlight turns into heat inside your home. Solar shades will save you a lot.

Pest prevention 

The mesh used in some window treatment options has two major functions:

1. Allows a cool breeze to ventilate your home, and 
2. Prevents flying bugs and mosquitoes from unwelcomed visits. 

Many people use pest prevention plug-ins which, ultimately, consume energy. Let us not forget the personal disturbance caused by these pesky insects. Insect screens are a built-in feature with most options available. 

Interior upkeep

Sunlight can damage your personal belongings and home interior design. It contributes to the fading of your carpets, rugs, painted decoration, photo’s displayed, and wall hangings. It costs energy to manufacture these items, which can be indispensable for a homeowner. 

Needing to refresh your interior frequently due to sun damage is not efficient. Apply sun shades to keep your favorite belongings in tip-top shape for longer. 

Are Solar Screens worth it? Do Solar Screens work for energy efficiency?

Yes and yes. Add solar screens to your home improvement list today and be ready for the summer heat. Your air conditioning unit can use up to 3000 watts per hour on a warm day – that’s the equivalent of having 50 standard lightbulbs turned on at the same time.

Turn off the lights to save energy, reduce your AC needs too. 

When To Consider Using solar screens?

When you decide to become more energy-efficient, you need to consider every aspect of your daily living. Windows included. 

When you want to start protecting your family’s health and reducing energy costs, contact us to discuss the different solar shades available. At Screenmobile we cater to all window types and all budgets. We’ve got you covered, well, your windows, from semi-permanent exterior panels to motorized solar window screens!

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