Insect and solar blocking screens- a primer
The most frequent question asked me as a seller of screen materials on is the difference between types of insect screen and why is solar block screen different from standard insect screen.
This guide is intended to be a primer and answer general questions only, Please contact manufacturers or vendors for product specific questions.
Insect screen is available in many materials including fiberglass, aluminum, galvanized steel, bronze, and stainless steel. Each type screen has specific features and benefits for certain applications.
For this discussion we will focus on fiberglass screen most often sold in windows and patio doors and used to enclose screen porches.
Fiberglass screen is actually a composite material composed of fiberglass strands coated with a plastic resin selected by the manufacturer based on Ultra Violet resistance, strength, and cost.
Insect screen is generally identified by MESH size which means the total number of squares per inch or meter. Example - 16 x 18 screen has 16 squares per inch in one direction and 18 squares per inch in the opposite direction. The higher the number, the tighter the mesh.
Mesh size is important because while all screens will keep out some insects, sand gnats (no seeums) and midges can crawl between the openings of larger mesh screens. Fine mesh such as 20 x 20 can be useful in keeping no seeum’s out.
Solar block screen is also an insect screen, but in addition, it has been designed to reduce heat and glare. Various manufacturers offer differing levels of solar block and types of weave, but all are designed to block more light and heat than typical insect screens.
All fiberglass screens can be replaced with either standard insect screen or solar block screen with no modification. Manufacturers offer many colors and options to allow homeowners the choice of selecting the screen that best fits their needs.
Fiberglass screens offer long service life with no corrosion and are easily replaced using common household tools.