4 Types Of Screen Every Homeowner Should Know About and What to Avoid

Most customers are shocked to learn that there is more than one type of screen! Not only is there more then one but in fact there are several. For most people a screen is just a woven mesh on an aluminum enclosure to keep the bugs out, but for others it can be a means of reducing sunlight, keeping the cat contained or adding privacy. In this post we will discuss the 3 most common types of screen as well as the stuff you shouldn’t use.

American Made Phifer 18/14 — Standard

The most common screen used by us is Phifer 18×14 screen, an American made product made by Phifer in Tuscaloosa Alabama. What does the 18×14 mean? Simply put it is the density of the screen mesh. Each square inch of Phifer 18×14 screen is 18 little rectangle
openings wide by 14 little rectangle openings tall. Phifer 18×14 screen will last on your screen enclosure in Florida for about twice as long as standard screen or 8 years. As a consumer it is important to know which type of screen your screen company is using.

AVOID The cheap Chinese Stuff:

You do not want to have Artisan Wire screen installed on your pool enclosure, front entryway, carport, or any other structure. Artisan Wire is a Chinese made product with a life span of just 3-4 years and is frequently used by screening companies because it is a cheap alternative. GULF COAST ALUMINUM WILL NEVER USE ARTISAN WIRE SCREEN.

Phifer 20/20 Mesh – No See Um Screen

As you know Florida is filled with many bugs, the smallest of which are nearly invisible and small enough to get through Polyester 14/16 or Phifer 18×14 screen. For a Florida native these tiny bugs known as No See’ums probably go unnoticed, but to someone new to the sub-tropical climate of Florida they can be quite a nuisance. There’s nothing more irritating then being unable to enjoy the outdoor weather on your screen porch, lanai, or in your pool enclosure because some pesky little critters make you itch. For this problem, Phifer 20×20 screen is the perfect solution. Using the same fiberglass strands and coating as Phifer 18×14 screen the mesh is woven tighter for smaller holes not allowing No See’ums to get through.

Polyester Screen 10 Year Warranty

If you are planning to keep your home for a long time and want to get the best value for your dollar in the long run, polyester is the material for you. Polyester screen mesh is warrantied for 10years and simulated tests have indicated that the material has a life expectancy beyond 21 years. To achieve such an extended lifespan, polyester screen mesh is made of a unique polyester yarn that has superior tear and tensile strength that is 100% stronger than Phifer 18/14 screen. It incorporates UV tolerant properties which delivers unparalleled color retention, longevity and filter characteristics.  The fabric is also compounded with a biocide that resists mildew and algae growth and repels insects.

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