Convert Your Porch Into Your New Favorite Room

Of nearly a million single-family homes built in 2020, more than 65% came with a porch. Porches are making a massive comeback as homebuyers find them to be an appealing house feature. 

And while porches are great, there’s something even better you can do to enjoy your patio year-round. Convert your porch into a room!

Porch conversions are an excellent home renovation project that won’t break the bank but will allow you to be in the yard while staying inside.

So keep reading as we dive into how to convert your existing porch into a new room in your home. 

What is a Porch Conversion?

A porch conversion takes your existing porch and converts it into an enclosed, beautiful space you can use throughout the year. With a converted porch, you can enjoy the great outdoors without worrying about the sun’s rays, pollen, or pesky insects getting in the way. These enclosed outdoor rooms offer the same protection from the weather as a sunroom while allowing you to enjoy the scenery whenever you wish. In addition, if your windows are well insulated, you can use them in the wee hours of the morning and evening in the spring and fall.

Set Your Purpose

Before doing anything, you need to consider what you want the purpose of the new room to be.

Is it going to serve as a bedroom? What about a sunroom? A three- or four-season room is also an option. On the other hand, maybe you only want a screened porch.

There are many possibilities, so if you need more time, speak with your builder to see what they can suggest. Of course, your decision will affect the rest of the building process, so you must consider its purpose first. 

Check the Foundation and Roof

Examining your roof and foundation requirements is the first step in converting your porch into a bedroom or expansion. If you have a wooden porch base, you’ll want to replace it with a concrete slab. 

Additionally, porches don’t usually have sufficient roofing for an entire room, so you’ll probably require an expansion. You’ll also want to ensure that when the porch conversion is complete, the ceiling is at least 8 feet tall, or else it won’t be up to standard. 

HVAC and Electrical Adjustments 

Next, you need to identify the room’s heating and cooling requirements. For example, if you plan to build a screen porch or enclosure, it may not have requirements in this category. However, you may not be able to enjoy the screen porch during the winter if it gets too cold.

You need to make some adjustments for the space to be fully functional as a bedroom or extension of your house. A professional will need to run ductwork from the existing heat pump system to the new space. Opting for electrical heat in the new room is also a choice you can consider.  

Adding heat will help to winterize the space and give it longevity. 

You’ll also want an air conditioner installed for those hot summer days. But, a professional HVAC pro can help you assess the best way to heat and cool your renovated porch.

After inspecting its HVAC needs, identify what electrical adjustments you need to make. An electrician will assess if you can use your current circuit breaker or if you need an upgrade to support the additional load. They can also advise you on wiring methods for light fixtures and outlets. 

Think about electrical devices you plan to have in the room, such as a TV, to understand where you need electrical access. 

Framework and Wall Insulation

At this point, you’ll need to extend the porch roof framework and add wall framing, if necessary.

Based on the porch conversion you’re working on, you’ll already know if you need to extend the roof from the previous step. You won’t need to add wall insulation for those creating a screen porch. 

You can use 2-by-4-inch studs spaced 16 inches apart to enclose the room with wall framing. However, for thicker insulation, choose 2-by-8-inch studs instead. This is necessary if you live in a climate with harsh winters and intend to use the room as a living space.

Of course, you want to leave some openings for windows and doors, so don’t close off the entire space! 

After installing the studs, you can determine the insulation you need for the walls and ceilings. To create a space you can use any season, remove the internal walls and add extra insulation. 

Consider installing smaller windows if the insulation doesn’t allow the room to heat or cool enough. Smaller windows help reduce the loss of warm or cooled air. 

As you can see, this is another reason you need to know the room’s purpose before you begin any renovations. For instance, using smaller windows isn’t ideal for a sunroom.

Siding

If you aren’t using screens, you’ll want to choose a siding that matches the rest of your home’s exterior. For example, if you already have vinyl siding, use the same style and color on the porch area. 

If your home uses brick and you can’t find an exact color match, you can choose vinyl siding that matches your home’s trim. Failing to match the new space with the rest of your home will make it stand out, and not in a good way. You want the room to feel like an addition to your home, not a side piece. This will ensure the interior and exterior flow and merge seamlessly. 

Decorate and Add Furniture

Finally, you’re ready to decorate the new space! Choose a paint color and start picking out some furniture. 

Many homeowners want their new converted porch to be comfy and for lounging. Try aiming for light or neutral colors and choosing plush cushions and oversized chairs. In addition, you can add a large area rug and throw pillows for additional comfort. 

Regardless of how you design the new space, try to make the aesthetic match the rest of your house and the usage. This way, it feels homey and like an extension of your home, not an area that oddly sticks out.

Choose Screenmobile for Your Porch Conversions

Porch conversions are the ideal house renovation project to give your home new life. You can screen in the area to create a lovely sitting place for the warmer months or enclose the space to have a fully functioning room year-round. 

From a deck patio to a patio enclosure, Screenmobile is here to help you. Request an estimate from us today so that we can get started on your porch conversation project!

Designed to be nearly invisible, screen doors aren’t something we think about until we’re right about to accidentally walk through them. Quite possibly the most unsung hero in a home, screens don’t just protect us from pests and the elements but keep our loved ones safe inside as well. Screens prevent pets from wandering out of the house, all while sparing us from having to use the air conditioning every time.

These days, however, pest control is more crucial than it may seem. For instance, while little is still known about the emerging threat of monkeypox, mosquitos have been found to transmit smallpox, which is a similar virus. Before more research can be done on the virology of monkeypox and how exactly its transmission works, taking preventative steps such as a screen door or window can do wonders to mitigate the risk of contagion.

Pest control starts with pet control.

Unless you’re a serial desk eater, the reality is that insects usually only take an interest in an area when there’s food left out for periods of time. Food bowls for pets are a common issue when it comes to potential infestations, and a well-placed screen setup can keep the scent of your animal’s meals under the radar.

A custom-built installation that Screenmobile provides is a Catio, which can be anything from a pet-resistant screen enclosure for your new or existing porch to a separate structure intended just for your cat or dog to get a taste of the outdoors. With versatile screen materials to choose from, such as fiberglass or vinyl, We can even provide an arched tunnel leading out to an external pet enclosure in the backyard. 

Screenmobile uses an innovative system known as Screeneze, which avoids the use of splines or rubber liners to attach a screen to its frame. This is a feature that can make all the difference when it comes to cat owners, who know all too well how long those rubber strips will last once a cat notices them.

While flaps are the most convenient type of doorway for pets, they leave a home open to predators and are really not the best way to keep smaller pests out of your house, either. Screenmobile offers specialized pet doors designed to align with any door application. 

For outdoor cats that absolutely insist on living the nightlife, installing a simple screen around the legs of a balcony or wooden roof lattice (on a veranda) would allow them a last-minute opportunity to escape a coyote or other predator. 

However, while monkeypox may not be an issue with pets, please keep in mind that other diseases, including COVID, are known to be transmittable amongst animals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), making a screen enclosure an apt precaution for your pet’s health and safety (even if it’s not six feet away from the house).

If a pet’s food debris being stuck to the screen itself is attracting insects, it’s worth exploring a more easily cleanable material or screen size. 

Screening your Garden

Sometimes, the best way to keep pests out of the house lies just outside of it. Wrapping a screen enclosure around one’s garden area can prevent pests from frequenting plants and then into the house. 

While produce and pet food is arguably the most common issue when keeping a home pest free, another one of the major problem areas is a home’s temperature itself.

When it comes to screens, the sky’s the limit for us

A common food source for pests is mold, which flourishes in dark, hot and humid environments. Places with high humidity, like bathrooms, usually benefit the most from the addition of a screen in lieu of a window (for bathroom walls inside of a home). 

One of the more unorthodox, although effective, ways of venting heat and moisture from a room is via the use of skylight screens. Reducing the buildup of mold will do wonders to prevent ants from ravaging both your home and mental health. If you feel ready to explore your options with Screenmobile or would just like to learn more, feel free to set up a free consultation.

You want to install your screens, walk away, and never need to think of them again like everyone else and every other home improvement upgrade. Screens are essential and valuable but quickly forgotten. 

So much so that they deteriorate before your eyes. Before you know it, you’re wondering how this gaping hole formed. Bugs are flying in like your home is their personal playground, dust is swirling about your clean rooms, and the dog keeps making it worse with his curious muzzle. 

We’ve repaired many a damaged window screen, meeting many a bewildered homeowner confused about how their screens fell into such a dismal condition. 

You don’t want that to happen. Old window screens look shabby and diminish your curbside appeal, including losing their primary function. 

Keep reading to learn about our top signs, the causes, and how to remedy this problem. 

Top Signs You Need To Replace Old Window Screens

There are a few factors to take into consideration when deliberating whether to replace your old window screens or not. Age is one of those. If you have no added factors, change your screens every 8 to 10 years.

Damaged window screens lose their power to protect you. Solar screens can no longer block harmful UV rays, and your cat can expertly escape through a hole in her catio. 

Here are the common signs that your window screens need replacing:

Old Window Screens

Just like a good wine, window screens age, but unlike wine, they don’t improve. Window screens can live a good life of up to 10 years. But that is 10 years of blocking the sun, debris, and bugs trying to make their way into your home.  If you can’t find your receipt, then inspect your screens. 

Faded fabric/material

If your mesh is faded, then it’s old. The constant exposure to the elements tires the fabric. If you had installed your screens recently and are concerned about the quick fading, then either you paid for cheap material, or this particular window receives the most sun, and you need a better window screen material.

Ripped, torn screen

You can try to sew up a ripped or torn screen or place duct tape along the laceration, but the screen will not be functioning at 100%. It can also look quite ugly.

How did your screen rip? Do you have pets up at that level scratching to get out? Did something get caught on your screen without realizing it? 

Holes 

Holes can appear with old age, fading, tearing, debris flying at your windows, birds crashing into them, smoke, fire, and forgotten rips. The thing with holes is, once they’re there, they only get bigger.

Placing a patch on a hole in your window screen is only a temporary solution. You don’t want it becoming more significant to the point your screens don’t work anymore!

Loss of structural integrity

Areas prone to earthquakes and tremors often need to replace window screens frequently. The violent shifting of the plates can pop your screens out of their frames, losing their structural integrity. 

If you don’t replace it, it will fall out entirely, leaving you screenless and unprotected. 

Warping

Extreme weather conditions (an increasingly more common occurrence) can bend and twist your screens. You might be able to pop them back in again, but it’s not permanent, and fidgeting with a warped screen can cause further damage to your window frame. 

Melting

It should be no surprise that window screens sitting in extreme heat day in and day out start to melt. Solar screens are more resistant, but if you notice your screen melting, it’s time to replace it! 

Brittle

On the other hand, freezing weather can make your screen brittle, speeding up its lifespan. It doesn’t mean your screen is bad quality, just that you’ll need to replace it more often. 

How to find replacement window screens

Screens aren’t difficult to source. You can find them in any local home improvement store. However, their dimensions are generic, and you might not find a size that fits comfortably in your window frame. 

Stretching your screen to cover your window will weaken the fabric, making it more liable to rip and tear. 

Fortunately, at Screenmobile, we build your screens to fit your windows. You contact us with your need, and we come out, measure your window, and prepare and install your screens right there on the back of our van. Replacing your old window screens has never been easier.

To recap

Go around your house to check all your screens yearly, just before winter kicks in. 

Check for

• Fraying
• Tearing
• Warping
• Loosening
• Weakening

If you’re not confident that your screens will make it through, call a Screenmobile technician – you’ll have your window screens replaced in a matter of weeks.

Summer’s getting hotter, with 2021 being the hottest in 126 years. So we need to develop ways in homes to keep cool without breaking the bank with AC bills.

Porches are an extension of your home. You can enjoy being outdoors without losing any of your homely comforts. However, your porch sometimes feels like the air hasn’t moved since 1956. Porches can be hot, stuffy, and full of insets. A place for your delivery packages to hang out until you come home and for your pet to longingly gaze at from indoors. 

It’s time to welcome back your porch as a functioning part of your home. Keep your patio cool during these hot summer months to relax and enjoy.

Read our great porch-cooling tips and get your patio ready for summer.

How to keep your porch cool in summer

You would hope being outside on your porch would be a clever way to cool down. However, a lot of us are used to the AC now, and let’s not forget the significant (and worrying) rise in temperature. A regular porch might not be able to cut it.

But don’t worry. We have some reliable ways to ensure you and your loved ones remain cool and refreshed while perched on your porch this summer. 

• Fans (ceiling & electric)
• Screens (solar, retractable, regular)
• Misting system
• Shades (retractable awnings, umbrellas)
• Furniture
• Plants
• Light Colors & Patterns

Porch Fans

This might seem like an obvious addition, but many people don’t think a fan fits into the aesthetic of a porch. However, you can choose between a stand-alone electric fan or a ceiling fan. Either way, they are great for loosening stagnant and hot air. Ceiling fans are a bit more expensive, but they fit the outdoor environment and don’t take up any floor space. Invest in one with a light, and you’ve hit two birds with one stone–relaxing on the porch has just extended to evening hours. 

Unfortunately, porch fans won’t prevent bugs from flying in or reduce harmful UV rays. So we suggest using a fan in conjunction with an exterior shade or sun control awning. 

Porch Screens 

At Screenmobile, we are screen experts. We build and install screens to fit any dimension, so yes, your porch or patio can be screened. Enclosing your porch with screens has a massive list of benefits like pest control, added shade, and improved privacy that will leave you happier and restful. 

Here are some great screened porch options:

Solar screens if your porch is in direct sunlight between 11 am and 5 pm. Their primary benefit is blocking harmful UV rays. 

Retractable screens roll into their protective shell when not in use so that you can air out your porch at night. 

Regular screens are a perfect option too. Air can still travel through the material with a bit of wind, and bugs and dust can’t get in. A screened-in porch can change how you enjoy your home!

Misting System

There’s a reason fairs, theme parks, and other public areas provide misting systems. So why not bring those periodic sprays of refreshing mists directed at you while you serenely rock on your porch. 

Misting systems are not that expensive and are easy to install. However, look at your local weather warnings to see if water use is restricted. 

Exterior Shades

Shades can be a beautiful addition to your porch, whether you get a retractable awning, sunbrella, or any other type of solar shade. 

The main benefit of choosing a shade over a screen is your view. Some screens are darker to prevent UV rays, with a tighter mesh to prevent bugs. Unfortunately, this can darken the room, so be prepared for that. 

Furniture

Surprisingly, changing your porch furniture helps reduce the heat felt. For example, wicker chairs allow the air to circulate through them. As a result, you don’t get sweaty or sticky, and the material doesn’t heat up.

Plants

Plants are a wonderfully green way to cool down your patio. As they grow, they become a natural barrier between your porch and everywhere else, boosting your privacy and curbside appeal!

Color pattern

Choose lighter colors to reflect the heat from the sun. For example, painting your porch white has many advantages over a dark tone. Your color pattern is essential in cooling your porch, so keep it in mind!

Screened-in porch

We’ve already touched on screened-in porches, and to be fair, they are excellent for adding another room to your home at a reduction of the cost. So don’t forget about your porch in any DIY project.

Depending on the size of your porch, you can easily turn it into a sunroom, a three-season room, or a catio! It’s an extra living space attached to your home where you can escape the TV and daily living sounds.  

Make your summer a cool one!

Your porch doesn’t need to be a hotbed of bugs and dust. Neither should it be restricted because the sun is dangerously hot. Your porch is an extension of your home, and you should enjoy it as much. 

Install some screens, a fan or two, an awning, and why not a misting system? In addition, you will save money by not depending on your AC indoors, which is much cheaper than building a new room in your home. 

If you’re interested in screening your porch to make it cooler, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local Screenmobile. We are more than happy to help you choose the best for your porch and build and install custom or generic screens and shades. 

Have you doubted the energy efficiency of window treatments? Are you not yet thoroughly convinced about how much you can save by choosing appropriate window screens for your climate?

Yes, window screens can be energy efficient.

Yes, window screens can save hundreds of dollars on your heating and cooling bills.

No, you don’t need to forgo curbside appeal or interior design when choosing energy-efficient window screens. 

We have been in this business for over 40 years, covering 31 states. Our customers have shared with us how they save money with their window treatments, whether in hot, sunny climates or cold, temperate climates. 

Read on to discover more about energy-efficient window screens.

What type of window treatments boost energy efficiency

There are two ways to increase the energy efficiency of your home via your windows, saving money:

1. Exterior: Reduces the most amount of heat gain because it stops up to 90% of the UV rays hitting the glass, thus stopping the heat from transferring through the window.
2. Interior: Reduces some of the heat gains from the window, but the UV rays still hit the window creating an energy transfer. 

About 30% of the heat generated in your home enters through your windows. So whether you have an HVAC system or a whole house full of fans, you’re almost literally burning money if you don’t invest in adequate window coverings.

Here’s a list of 6 different types of window coverings you can select from:

Drapes: 

Curtains are a great option if budget is your primary restraint. They are fully customizable, can be homemade, and will match your interior design flawlessly. They cover your whole window and frame, reducing the percentage of heat escaping.
Cons: 

1. They do not reduce your heat gain as much as solar screens 
2. Dogs love to play with them
3. They’re not fixed, so coverage isn’t consistent
4. They gather dust and dirt, especially heinous for a household with asthmatics.
   

Window Blinds: 

Slatted blinds are trendy in kitchens and bathrooms. They offer privacy while open easily to let fresh air in (or smells out!) You can control how open they are between the slats or just raise the whole blind.
Cons:

1. The pulley system and strings get easily knotted
2. Cats LOVE to play with the strings
3. Slats can break individually, creating a messy look
4. Needs constant cleaning

Solar Screens: 

These energy-saving window screens are best if you live in a hot climate with more year-round sun; states closer to the equator. They reduce solar heat gain, especially if you choose exterior window shades. This decreases your dependency on air conditioning, insulating your pockets with more cash.
Cons:

1. Exterior shades are very obvious
2. Bothersome having to remove them every fall, so remain semi-permanent
3. Storage during the winter months

NOTE: Avoid the cons of storage and removal by looking at a motorized or retractable option. More details below

Storm Screens: 

Solid and durable screens can withstand strong winds and heavy snowfall while offering a mesh that can reduce sun glare. With these screens, you won’t need to have your heating on full blast and won’t feel (or hear) the chill slicing through your home.
Cons:

1. Expensive
   

Retractable Screens: 

Great for more oversized windows and doors. Retractable screens are there when you need them and out of sight when you don’t. Easy to open and close with one hand or with the push of a button – they’re kid and pet-friendly and easy to maintain.
Cons:

1. Not possible for every window type
2. Expensive
   

Window Film: 

Cheap cosmetic window coverings that protect some of your privacy and reduce sun glare.
Cons:

1. They aren’t energy efficient in winter or summer
2. They do not block gaps
3. They do not reduce solar heat gain as much as solar screens 
4. They chip and peel after a short period

As you can see from the list above, quite a few different options exist. 

How solar screens save on cooling bills 

Solar screens, or other window treatments, were created to add Daytime privacy and save on cooling bills by reducing solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). Typically, when solar radiation (Sunlight) hits your window panes, it passes through your window and transfers into heat. This makes living spaces unbearably hot and stuffy during the day. Solar screens offer a physical barrier, reducing the sunlight and heat that hit your window and move into your home. 

If you’re used to running the air-conditioning all day and night just to keep the house comfortable, installing solar screens significantly reduces this dependency. When you get home, your home will be considerably cooler than outside. Of course, you won’t get that constant blast of cool air, but you’ll save loads. 

How storm screens save on heating bills

Wooden frames expand and contract depending on the season; it’s natural and unavoidable. Most window and door frames are wooden; you do the math. In winter, the wood contracts, creating visible gaps along your window and door frames. 

You can stuff the gaps with newspaper or caulking, but the most sustainable effort is to purchase a screen that will cover the whole window, frame included. Storm screens are known to block cold air from sweeping in uninvited or stop precious heat from escaping. Reduce your heat loss, and save your money.

Your window of opportunity 

Save the planet and your pocket in one fell swoop and install energy-saving window screens. Whether blocking the heat and sun or keeping the nasty cold out of your home, choosing suitable screens can make a huge difference. You can DIY it or call your local Screenmobile: we come, we measure, we cut, and install. We customize every aspect for your own needs.

You’ve decided that you’re installing screen doors in your home. Excellent choice. Now all that’s left is choosing the best type of door to suit your home and needs. 

There are many options out there, which can become overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this screen door guide – to help you make a sound decision. 

Screen doors are investments – they add value to your home, including other solid benefits like security and safety. Select the correct door, frame, material, and color to suit your needs, family, home, and neighborhood.

Keep on reading and choose your screen door today.

Different types of screen doors

Screen doors have evolved over the years, and many modern screen doors exist to complement your lifestyle. To quickly outline the different doors available:

• • Security doors
  • Pet resistant doors
  • Storm doors
  • Sliding screen doors
  • French doors

Security doors: these are solid and impenetrable doors that fit over your entryway. They have fortified locking systems and come with a mesh resistant to knives (if you choose mesh). Otherwise, your security screen door can have a glass or metal pattern finish.

Not only will they prevent burglars from entering, but with one look, they’ll also deter would-be burglars from even trying. Customize your security door to complement your home’s decor, boosting curbside appeal and adding value to the resale price.

Pet-resistant doors: pets always create a divide in the family: do we leave them indoors or outdoors while we’re away at work? Installing a pet door is the perfect solution. It allows your pet to remain independent without scratching, barking, or ‘indoor accidents.’

If you have indoor-only pets, then you might not like the idea of a doggie door. However, you don’t want them running out whenever you’ve got the door open or tearing your screen whenever a squirrel runs past the house. Pet-resistant screens have a hardier, more durable mesh.

Storm doors: doors and screens built to withstand strong winds, heavy snowfall, and harsh weather conditions. For example, there is no weather-based need to get a storm door if you live in most places in California – it’s an unnecessary expense for such a mild climate.

These doors cover your main door entirely and can be customized. If you’re unsure whether you need a storm door or not, contact your local Screenmobile. We could be the solution to the wind whistling throughout your home or the endless draft you get in the winter. If that wind can get in, it’ll start knocking things over and weaken your main door when it gets stronger.

The standard screen door

This type of screen door is your best friend. It’s reliable, dependable, and does the job exactly as it should. These doors are mass-produced with standard American home door dimensions. 

If your home is more than a few decades old, don’t be surprised if your door measurements don’t conform with the standards. Building regulations and codes are updated every three years, but remember, they’re not laws, more like guidelines. 

Custom screen doors

Customizing your screen door is the best way to reflect you and your decor. You can choose the materials and fabrics you want, the shape of the door, and the dimensions. Even the color and design of the metal-decorated exterior, if that’s what you choose. 

Screenmobile thrives on custom screen doors and is more than happy to escort you to selecting the door type that suits your home, family, and needs.

Luxury screen doors

Let’s give custom screen doors a one-up and go total luxury: motorized screens, retractable screens, screens where you keep your view, but no one can see in.

Choose lavish and intricate designs, use the best material, and hook your screens to an app! 

Of course, these are the most expensive screen door types, but they will add massive value to your home. 

Choosing the best screen door type for your home

There are five main factors to consider when deciding which type of screen door you need for your home. 

1. Location
2. Space
3. Climate
4. Primary uses (listed above)
5. Budget

Answering these simple questions is a great way to get the ball rolling. However, our Screenmobile representatives will be more than happy to help you with this process and more. 

Question One: Where are you located? Are you in the city or the country? In a built-up area or secluded?

Question Two: Is your door space large or small? Are you interested in double french, sliding, or standard swinging doors?

Question Three: What’s the weather like? Are you situated in Hurricane or Tornado alley, or beneath the intense glare of the Californian sun, for example?

Question Four: Why are you installing a screen door? Check out the different types above for guidance.

Question Five: How much do you have to spend? And remember, this is an investment, not an expenditure.

Take this case study, for example, from Bob Driscoll.

What he needs is a standard single storm door with a pet-resistant screen.

Try it yourself; it will save heaps of time. 

Knock, knock, who’s there? Screenmobile!

Find the local Screenmobile in your area and contact us today with your project details. Our technician will punctually come to your home at an appointed time and discuss your project with you. They’ll advise you on the best choice within your budget and according to your decor and needs. 

We measure, build, and install, and you enjoy the benefits of the perfect screen door type for your home. 

The beauty about building your own home, or adding an extension, is being able to choose your window size. Yes, not all home windows measure the same. There are, of course, averages, but following them is not essential. 

If you’re worried about window coverings, like drapes and screens, then push that headache aside–window coverings are primarily customizable. With Screenmobile, it is the case, anyway. 

If you’re looking for information on the different types of windows and home window sizes, you’ve come to the right place. We consider ourselves window experts, and we’re more than happy to share our knowledge with you. 

What is a standard window size?

Standard window sizes vary but within set limitations. It’s easy to order window replacements from the likes of Lowes or HomeDepot. Window screens are readily available, with drapes and fabrics already cut to size, facilitating your interior design and shopping needs. 

However, no two detached houses are built the same (to an extent). Your house may be similar to the Smiths down the road, but don’t you want your home to showcase some uniqueness? A great way to have your home stand apart from the neighbors is by choosing different window sizes.  

How to choose a window size for your home?

Four factors to consider when deciding what window type and size to install in your home are:

• Space available: Windows that open in or out need more space. A small room could benefit from higher windows, and a large room could benefit from a picture window.
• Orientation of the room: North-facing rooms should have more oversized windows to let in more natural light. 
• Energy efficiency goals: Triple-glazed windows are the best for home insulation and bill reduction, but do the windows you envisage come in triple glazing? You should also consider the solar screens you’ll install (although Screenmobile provides custom screens).
• Budget: Cost is often the deciding factor when it comes to home renovations, but consider it an investment rather than an expenditure without return. 

Window size measurements

When measuring for your new windows, it’s good to know that you should always add half an inch to the height and width for ease of installation. Windows also follow a four-digit notation: width (ft/in) height (ft/in). So, a window that measures 45″ x 45″ will be noted as 4545. 

Energy Efficiency of Windows

Between 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling costs are attributed to windows. If you want to cut the costs of your bills, then you should be looking at insulating your windows. Achieve this by installing double or triple-glazed window panes, choosing the correct window treatments and the best window frame, and ensuring that windows fit cozily without gaps bordering the frame. 

Single, Double & Triple Pane Windows

This is about how many panes of glass are in your windows. It’s very rare to come across single-pane windows in modern homes. Windows are one of the first areas that are improved when wishing to insulate your home and have it rank higher on the energy efficiency barometer. 

Another way to say this is single, double, or triple-glazed windows. 

Different types of windows

So now you know what size window you want/need, have you thought about what type of window you desire? Of course, there is a choice, there is always a choice, and we have the pleasure of listing them out here for you:

Double-hung/Sash Windows

These are windows where both sashes open vertically and tilt for cleaning and ventilation purposes. Single-hung windows are more common in older buildings. The double-hung windows are a much safer option when you have kids, as you can slide down the upper sash to ventilate your home rather than leaving the bottom sash dangerously wide open. 

Picture Windows 

These windows are generally large and can be considered partial wall replacements. They are not functional like traditional windows–they offer the view but do not open. Picture windows are very common in office buildings, restaurants, and homes with amazing views. 

Slider Windows

Think double-hung windows on their sides. Slider windows are easier to open and close without lifting or pulling. They come in various sizes so that you can have smaller ones for your basement or larger ones in bedrooms. 

Bay Windows

These windows are the most aesthetic in the selection. They offer a nook in your room, adding character and style. It’s a window that juts out from your wall and is paned on three sides, the two sides moving out diagonally. They are ideal for extra seating, storage, and book reading. 

To note, bay windows generally don’t open. The middle window is often a picture window, with some side windows operating as casement windows.

Casement Windows

These windows operate like doors. They are attached with hinges and open out. Not convenient if you lack exterior space or are prone to strong winds and storms. Modern casement windows operate with a crank, making them easier to work. 

Awning Windows

These are windows that open out at a slant. They offer more privacy as the window isn’t fully opened while promoting natural light and ventilation. Awning windows are commonly found in bathrooms and on mobile homes.

Custom Window

Be unique and choose your own window style and shape. You don’t have to decide on an average window size, and most window companies offer customized services. You can have any opening fitted with a window, with functions of your choosing. 

Different window covering types

Regardless of the type of window you choose, its size, orientation, and shape, award-winning Screenmobile have you covered. We provide custom screens with various colors and fabrics to choose from; no need to worry about finding window treatments that fit!

Find your local Screenmobile and get your unique windows the perfect screens. 

Handrails for outdoor steps are a convenient and safe feature to add, aside from the fact that the law often requires them. 

They facilitate the mount and descent of your exterior steps for your elderly family members and friends, help kids keep their balance, and add value to your home. Well, if you choose the correct handrail to boost your curbside appeal. 

You don’t have to pick the standard handrail available at lowes or HomeDepot – get creative, use a theme, and choose the material that matches your home. 

Read on to discover Screenmobile’s favorite outdoor handrailings.

Exterior handrail ideas: 

You can install different types of handrails for your outdoor steps. Metal railings are the most common for concrete steps, with wooden or cable fences reigning for decks.

But you decide for yourself what works best for your home and budget. Invest in stylish, long-lasting support unless you’re installing a handrail for absolute necessity.  

We hope this list helps you make the right decision!

Metal Railing

Steel railings are the most popular for emergency exit outdoor stairs. They are solid, sturdy, and can suit any height.

Choosing galvanized steel will increase the longevity of your stairs. 

Forged Iron Railing

We love these classic railings that are both practical and decorative. They can be bought ready-made or have custom-built handrails, following a design of your choosing. 

To keep them in top shape, dry off the railings after rainfall, but if you spot some rust, here’s what to do: douse the area in kerosene, then scour with steel wool. 

Vinyl Railing

Vinyl is a synthetic material often abbreviated as PVC. Vinyl is everywhere – flooring, clothes, records… and handrails. There are many reasons to choose vinyl, including low cost and environmental impact. You can choose different colors and shapes without worrying about humidity or moisture. 

Wood Railing 

Wooden handrails are the perfect choice to complement a wooden deck.

You might decide to close off the whole decking with a railing or include some handrails to facilitate climbing up and down the steps. 

Having some sort of railing for your outdoor deck is a good idea. If you intend to entertain people in the evenings, handrails and border railing help prevent falls in the dark. You can also decorate them with outdoor lights. 

Maintain your wooden handrails with sealing and varnish. 

Glass Railing

Think glass paneling, think chic, think Hollywood hills, or your own backyard if you have the budget. This handrail option looks the best, but a lot of maintenance is involved in keeping it clean; however, if you have a killer view that your want to keep, go for a glass handrail!

Cable Railing

These are stainless steel cords of metal, taut, and wound together to fit between the bars of your rail. Cable railings are very handy for steep steps, and you can install them on different levels to accommodate different heights. 

Standards for handrail heights

According to OSHA, Occupational Safety and Health Association, a handrail height must not be lower than 42 inches in height. Since January 2017, handrails now require a top rail. The top rail must reach at least 42 inches, with the secondary handrail measuring between 30 to 38 inches.

Deciding to install a security screen door instead of a regular one can be an emotionally trying choice. It’s more costly, true (more on that below), but it’s an extra layer of protection for your family and belongings.

You might think a security door is not worth it, that your neighborhood is safe. And that’s a risk you must take and live with.

We’ll help you make your decision with a clear conscience–regardless of whether you choose a security screen door. 

What is a security door?

First, a little background on security doors. You know what storm doors are, if not from TV, then from your neighborhood. Storm doors are the cornerstone of American households, protecting families from harsh weather conditions since the Civil War. 

Storm doors have certainly evolved since the late 1800s, one of those products being the security door. Of course, not every household needs a storm door; not everyone lives in Hurricane or Tornado Alley. But the extra layer of protection they offered was a feature other families went for.

Security doors a commonly found in two different styles:

• Stainless steel or aluminum frame 
• Decorative or plain

You can keep your aesthetics and curbside appeal and still benefit from the many advantages security doors bring:

1. Element of home security
2. Resistant to intruders
3. Supports Ventilation
4. Prevents flying insects and critters
5. Keeps kids and pets indoors
6. Doubles as a solar shade

Pros and Cons of security doors

To save you the headache of figuring out if security doors are worth it, we’ve created a pro/con list for you. It might even answer some questions you didn’t consider asking!

Pro: Security 

It’s all in the name, really, but security is a huge pro, especially if you’re fearful for the safety of your family and belongings. Security doors have stronger frames (stainless steel or aluminum) that can withstand forced pressure. 

Security doors fit over your regular door, so you have a double locking system, including the doubled door benefits. 

Also, to note, security doors work as a visible deterrent. A burglar is less likely to attempt breaking into a home with a security door, not wanting to risk extra time, failure, and capture.

Con: Not a DIY project

Many of you are DIY enthusiasts who relish a challenging project. However, security doors are not suitable for DIY projects. You can attempt it, but a warranty won’t cover you.

It’s better to get a trained technician to install your security door to ensure it’s properly fitted and secure. Screenmobile technicians measure and install security doors custom built to fit your home.

Pro: Ventilation

There’s nothing better than being able to leave your front door open to let a cool breeze flow through your home on a hot summer’s day. Now you can leave your door wide open and not risk pets escaping, children running out into the street, or opportunists taking advantage of your open-door vulnerability. 

Many security door designs have mesh screens applied to allow home ventilation. It will help keep energy bills low, too.

Con: Price

Budget often takes priority with major household expenditures. It’s true; security doors are more expensive with heavy metal frames and multipoint locking systems. You need to weigh up your personal need for a security door. 

• Do you live in an area prone to burglary?
• Is your home often isolated?
• Or perhaps only one person is present during the day?
• Do you have valuables locked away?

Although a security door cannot fully replace a home security system, it’s cheaper to maintain with a one-time purchase.

Pro: Weather deterrent Options

As mentioned above, some styles of security doors are evolved storm doors. You get the same weatherproofing benefits, insulated from cold air and wind while cutting your energy costs and protecting your family. 

Con: Possible Corrosion/Rust 

If you live in a region with heavy rainfall, you would think that corrosion or rust can quickly occur, regardless of the material you choose. However, with the metals we use and the powdered coating, you can expect years before corrosion or rust appears.

Aluminum: doesn’t rust and can take years to corrode. Salt is the active element in aluminum corrosion, meaning coastal homes could experience corrosion faster. 

Stainless Steel: doesn’t rust or corrode. However, prolonged and frequent exposure to heat can damage its strength. 

Pro: ROI and Boosted Home Value

Adding a security door immediately increases your home value. You will have less to pay on your home insurance, too. Taking the steps needed to fully protect your home saves you money in the long run, not to think of the valuables that you protect within your home. 

Families feel safer in adequately secured homes, so if you’re considering selling within the next ten years, expect a higher price.

At the end of the day, security doors are the responsible choice.

Now that you’ve read through this information, you may feel more confident choosing a security door when deciding to install a screen door or upgrade your current one. 

You can reach out to your local Screenmobile franchise and ask them for a quote, including a call out for measurements and door selection and a second call (two weeks later) for a professional installation.

We carry Titan and Vista–leading brands in security doors for homes and commercial spaces.

Give us a call today and have your home secure in a matter of weeks.

Screenmobile is proud to announce that it has been named Entrepreneur magazine’s #1 Home Repair Franchise — considered the world’s first, best and most comprehensive franchise ranking. Screenmobile has long been a member of the Franchise 500 list under the “Home Repairs” category and climbing up the magazine’s “Top Franchises for Less Than $100,000” list over the previous two years.

The prestigious award validates our progress and the past year’s accomplishments, including reaching more than 140 franchisees nationwide. 

About The Best of the Best

Entrepreneur magazine’s “best of the best” are the franchises that ranked not only in the increasingly competitive Franchise 500 list this year but also at the top of their respective industry categories. The Franchise 500 evaluates companies based on more than 150 data points in costs and fees, size and growth, franchisee support, branding strength, and financial stability. 

All franchises receive a score based on more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest scores join the Franchise 500® in ranking order. Screenmobile has topped that order and taken first place in the “Home Repair” category.

What Makes Screenmobile Franchise Best of the Best?

Our commitment to customer satisfaction, convenience, and professionalism. 

Our mission was to reinvent the screening industry by offering high-quality, stylish screens and outdoor living concepts to home improvement projects around the country at reasonable pricing. Screenmobile’s unmatched commitment to customer satisfaction and convenience is just one way we make home improvement projects a breeze. With a single visit, a Screenmobile representative arrives in uniform, measures, manufactures, installs and tests the screens on-site. Afterward, we’ll follow up with proactive communication to ensure the customer’s needs are met.

A Screenmobile Franchise is the ideal franchise opportunity for family-oriented individuals or couples seeking the ideal work/life balance. Franchisees recognize the familial spirit that comes with being a part of the brand. The typical Screenmobile franchisee is drawn to the job’s physical and emotional features, such as working with their hands and creating relationships with customers and the local community.

Over our 40 years in existence, we’ve committed to unwavering franchisee support and customer satisfaction — helping us grow into a national brand with staying power: this award is a testament to our commitments and consistency.

Thank you to all our loyal customers, dedicated franchisees, and support staff for making this historic occasion possible.