Window Screens: Advantages and Disadvantages
Examining Window Screens: Advantages and Disadvantages
Window screens can be made of aluminum, fiberglass, metal wire, nylon, or polyester. Less common materials include galvanized steel, brass, copper, and stainless steel. Some screens are stretched in a wood or metal frame, while others roll into a pocket when not in use.
The advantages of window screens are:
- Protection. Window screens keep insects, animals, leaves, and debris from getting inside the home. They also offer protection against the elements. An open window with a screen will allow less water in during a downpour than one without a screen.
- Fresh airflow. Screens permit fresh airflow, while repelling insects and debris.
- Reduces sunlight and heat gain. In hot climates, dense window screens are used to reduce sunlight and heat gain. This minimizes cooling costs and sun damage to furnishings, carpet, and floors.
Fiberglass solar screens reduce UV rays by 75 percent. Visibility is reduced from the inside, but the screens are difficult to see through from the outside, increasing privacy.
The disadvantages of window screens are:
- Denting. Depending on the type of material, window screens can dent when hit or pushed. If the material isn’t durable, it can even tear. Fiberglass doesn’t dent and it’s less expensive than other types of materials.
- Reduces sunlight. Dense or opaque screens reduce the amount of sunlight that can get into the room. This can make the space appear darker.