Tired of swatting away mosquitoes and flies every time you step onto your elevated deck or porch? Even with screens in place, those pesky critters somehow find their way into your outdoor sanctuary. Before you start tearing apart your screen porch in frustration, take a moment to look around. The hidden highway for these unwanted guests might be right beneath your feet… literally! If you’re still battling to keep bugs off your porch, under-deck screening could be the solution you have been searching for.

Understanding the Insect Infiltration Issue

Let’s explore why traditional methods sometimes fall short in keeping bugs at bay, especially for elevated decks and porches. The issue often lies in the structure of these outdoor havens. While conventional porch screens do a decent job blocking insects from the sides and top, they may overlook a crucial entry point: the floor.

Elevated decks and porches typically have small gaps between the floorboards. These spaces, barely noticeable to us, are like welcome mats for insects. Mosquitoes, no-see-ums, flies, and various crawling critters can easily navigate these openings, sneaking into what should be a protected area. This sneaky invasion not only defeats the purpose of your screened space but can affect your overall lifestyle.

Under Deck Solutions: A Comprehensive Approach

To tackle the challenges of insect infiltration and maximize your outdoor space’s potential, several under-deck solutions have emerged. Let’s explore three primary options:

1. Traditional Underdecking

Underdecking is primarily designed to manage water drainage beneath your deck. While not specifically targeting insect control, it offers significant perks:

• Shields furniture and items stored below from water drips
• Creates a dry space underneath, expanding your usable outdoor area
• Safeguards your deck’s structural components from water damage
• Can be paired with other solutions for all-around protection

This system typically involves installing panels that direct water away from the area below your deck helping to create a dry, functional space.

2. Under-Deck Screening

Under-deck screening is a targeted solution for insect control, particularly effective for elevated decks and porches:

• Involves crafting custom screen panels for the floor beneath your existing screened-in deck
• Helps close off gaps between floorboards, minimizing insect entry
• Ensures proper airflow while creating a barrier against even tiny insects
• Can be customized to complement your deck’s aesthetics and structural needs

This solution works together with traditional porch screening methods, creating a fully enclosed space that helps keep those pesky bugs at bay.

3. Complete Screen Room

For those looking to increase their outdoor living space, a complete screen room installed below the deck can add many additional benefits:

• Transforms the area beneath your existing deck into a new living space with enhanced bug protection
• Offers shelter from insects and small debris (like twigs and leaves)
• Provides versatility in use – from a cozy relaxation nook to an outdoor dining area
• Can incorporate additional features like lighting, fans, or even entertainment systems

This solution not only addresses bug issues but also significantly expands your usable outdoor space, offering a comfortable area for various activities throughout much of the year.

Each of these solutions offers unique advantages. Your choice will depend on your specific needs, budget, and outdoor space’s layout. By implementing one or a combination of these under-deck solutions, you can create a more functional, comfortable outdoor environment with improved defense against those uninvited six-legged guests.

The Many Benefits of Under Deck Screening

Investing in under-deck screening offers a host of advantages that go beyond just keeping bugs off your porch. Let’s explore some of the key perks:

1. Enhanced Comfort and Usability

With a fully screened space, including the underside, you can enjoy your outdoor area without the constant buzz of insects or worry about bug bites. This increased comfort often leads to more frequent use of your deck or porch, allowing you to make the most of your outdoor living space year-round.

2. Improved Health and Safety

By helping to keep insects out, under-deck screening can reduce your exposure to potential disease-carrying pests like mosquitoes. This added layer of protection can contribute to a healthier outdoor environment for you and your loved ones.

3. Increased Property Value

A well-maintained, fully screened outdoor living area can be a significant selling point for potential homebuyers. Under-deck screening showcases attention to detail and a commitment to quality, potentially boosting your property’s overall value.

The Screenmobile Advantage

Choosing Screenmobile for your under-deck screening needs means partnering with a trusted, nationwide leader in screen solutions. Our mobile service brings professional expertise right to your doorstep, offering a convenient and efficient installation process.

We take pride in using high-quality materials built to withstand the test of time. Our team of skilled technicians is trained to provide custom solutions that address your specific needs, aiming for a perfect fit and optimal performance of your under-deck screening.

Take Action: Transform Your Outdoor Space Today

Don’t let pesky insects ruin your outdoor living any longer. With Screenmobile’s under-deck screening solution, you can take effective steps to keep bugs off your porch and create a more enjoyable outdoor oasis. Our professional team is ready to assess your space and provide a tailored solution that meets your needs and aims to exceed your expectations.

Ready to take the first step towards a more comfortable outdoor living area with improved protection against bugs? Request a free estimate today and let us help you unlock the full potential of your elevated deck or porch.

And if you need more help keeping the bugs away, reach out to our sister brand, Mosquito Squad, to fight the bite!

Boosting Child Safety in Your Home

As America’s Neighborhood Screen Stores®, Screenmobile is dedicated to delivering convenient, efficient, and precise screening solutions designed to help enhance your home’s safety and comfort.  While our products offer many features, it’s vital to grasp their intended purpose and limitations, particularly when it comes to keeping children safe.

Uncovering Hidden Dangers Around the House

November is Child Safety Protection Month, a crucial time to focus on creating safer living spaces for our little ones.  As we work to shield our children from harm, it’s essential to recognize hidden hazards lurking in our homes, especially those related to screens and windows.  Many parents might not realize that regular window screens aren’t designed to prevent falls or keep kids away from pool areas, creating a false sense of security.  Let’s dive into some often-overlooked risks and practical strategies to help safeguard our children by improving home safety.

Window Screens:  Insect Barriers, Not Fall Prevention

Window screens are crafted to allow fresh air in while helping to keep bugs out.  However, some might mistakenly view them as a safety barrier.  Although screens might provide a feeling of security, window screens won’t stop falls or restrict access.  With this in mind, here are some practical steps you can take to minimize risks in your home and help keep kids safe from falls or intruders:

• Rearrange furniture away from windows.  When playtime involves climbing, jumping, or roughhousing, having furniture near windows can be a recipe for disaster.  Shift furniture to solid walls or away from windows to help lower the risk of falls.
• Secure doors and windows when they’re not in use.
• Keep a watchful eye on children when they’re playing near open windows.

Safety Reminder:  Window screens are designed to help keep insects out, not to prevent falls or restrict access.  Always implement additional safety measures to protect children from window-related accidents.

Window Coverings:  The Hidden Perils of Corded Options

While window coverings are crucial for privacy and light control, they can pose significant safety risks to young children.  The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified corded window coverings as one of the top five hidden hazards in American homes.

To help reduce these risks, consider implementing the following safety ideas:

• Switch out corded window coverings for cordless or motorized alternatives, especially in children’s bedrooms and play areas.
• If you still have corded window coverings, install cord clips to keep cords securely fastened to the wall and taut, helping to minimize the risk of entanglement.
• Position cribs, beds, and other furniture away from windows to help prevent children from reaching cords.

Screenmobile offers solutions to replace your corded blinds and shades with safer alternatives.  Explore our options for cordless interior blinds and shades or high-quality motorized shade solutions.

Security Window Screens:  Improved Protection Without Compromise

Security window screens can offer a robust solution for child safety and home security without sacrificing aesthetics or functionality.  Unlike traditional window bars, security screens have several key features:

• Clear Views:  Security screens maintain unobstructed sightlines, allowing natural light to flood in while helping to keep intruders out.
• Durable Stainless-Steel Mesh:  Built from high-strength materials, these screens resist cutting and impact.
• Tamper-Resistant Frames:  Specially engineered frames make it challenging for potential intruders to remove the screen from the outside.
• Emergency Exit Function:  Many security screens have quick-release mechanisms, enabling swift escape during emergencies like fires.
• Air Circulation:  Unlike solid barriers, security screens allow for airflow, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor environment.

By choosing security window screens, you can significantly boost your home’s safety without compromising on style or functionality.  These screens can act as an effective deterrent against break-ins while providing peace of mind for families with young children.

Screen Doors: Controlled Access and Fresh Air

Screenmobile’s screen doors offer ventilation while maintaining a barrier against insects between indoor and outdoor spaces.  We offer a wide range of customization options, allowing homeowners to select specific dimensions, colors, and design features to complement their home’s decor.  Whether you prefer a sleek modern look or a more traditional design, Screenmobile offers a variety of screen doors to match your style.

As with other areas in the home, it’s crucial to minimize risks associated with screen doors.  To maximize the safety features of your screen door:

• Add childproof locks to screen doors to prevent unsupervised access to outdoor areas.
• Look into self-closing mechanisms to ensure doors don’t accidentally remain open.
• Regularly inspect the screen and frame to keep them in good working order.
• Clean the screen periodically with a soft cloth and mild soap to maintain visibility and functionality.
• Teach children about proper usage to help prevent accidental damage or injury.

For more details on our security screen door options, visit Screenmobile’s security screen doors page.

Porch and Patio Enclosures:  Creating Safe Outdoor Havens

Screened-in porches, patios, and decks can transform your outdoor spaces into safer areas for children to enjoy fresh air and sunshine.  However, just like window screens, screened-in spaces are not designed to prevent falls or restrict access to outdoor areas.

As with other parts of your home, it’s important to evaluate your porch and patio enclosures to help keep your kids safe:

• Make sure all access points to the enclosure are secure and child-proof.
• Conduct regular inspections of the enclosure for any damage or weak spots.
• Depending on your local building codes and regulations, you may need to install a chair railing, handrail, or picket system around your elevated spaces.  Even if not required in your area, it’s wise to include these safety features for porches, patios, and decks.

Discover more about our enclosure options at Screenmobile’s screen enclosures page.

Taking Action: Your Next Steps with Screenmobile

Improving your home’s safety is an ongoing process, and Screenmobile is here to support you.  Our mobile service brings custom screening solutions right to your doorstep for a convenient and professional experience.

Remember, while our products can contribute to a safer home environment, they are only one part of a comprehensive safety strategy.  Regularly assess your home’s safety measures, especially as your children grow and develop new skills.

Ready for Screenmobile to help enhance your home’s safety with custom screening solutions?  Request a free estimate today and take the first step towards a safer, more comfortable home for your family.