Before going into details about the mesh materials, it is important to first understand insect screen mesh sizes.
Mesh size is measured by the number of openings in one square inch. For example, a mesh size of 18 x 16 means that there are 18 openings per inch when you count from the left to the right corner. When you count from the top to bottom corner, there should be 16 openings per inch.
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How does the mesh size affect the insect screen? The greater the number of openings per square inch, the smaller the holes. A higher mesh size is thus more effective in keeping out smaller insects. Mesh size affects the rigidity of the screen as well. Smaller openings mean a tighter weave. In turn, the screen is less prone to sagging.
The standard 18 x 16 mesh easily keeps out larger insects such as mosquitoes and flying termites. However, if you would also like to keep out tiny insects such as fruit flies, sand flies (AKA biting midges) and drain flies, a 20 x 20 mesh would be your best bet.
Another factor to keep in mind when selecting insect mesh size is ventilation. Larger openings allow for more airflow at the cost of allowing smaller insects through. Conversely, smaller openings keep out tiny insects while slightly sacrificing airflow.
Regardless of mesh size, choosing a lightweight mesh will help to improve airflow through the insect screen.
You may be surprised to learn that an insect screen’s mesh colour affects much more than just aesthetics. Some may prefer a mesh colour that blends in with their interior décor. For example, a white mesh against a white window frame. However, white mesh is actually not recommended due to problems with visibility.
Black, white and grey are the three most common mesh colours available. We explain their differences below.
Black
The black mesh is by far the most popular choice among homeowners, and for good reason. Black objects are the best at absorbing light. Because of this, the black mesh offers the best outward visibility and the most protection against UV rays. You not only get to enjoy a clear view through the screen, but also a reduction in sun glare. Additionally, the black mesh is the least visible among the three colours. Many insect screens that use black mesh are able to achieve the “invisible” effect.
White
White mesh has the opposite effect of the black mesh. As white objects reflects light, a white mesh offers lower outward visibility and the least protection against UV rays. In terms of visibility, white mesh is the most visible and gives off a “translucent” look. But it is the best at diffusing light, which could be useful if your room requires even lighting throughout. White mesh is typically the least popular option among the three colours.
Grey
Grey mesh offers similar advantages to the black mesh, but to a lesser extent since grey objects cannot absorb light as well as black. One thing to note is that the amount of sunlight affects how visible the mesh is. While not very noticeable in the day, the grey mesh becomes much more visible at night.
Strength, durability, cost and outward visibility are some of the considerations to keep in mind when choosing mesh material. The right mesh material will depend on which factors matter more to you.
Fiberglass is one of the most commonly used mesh materials for insect screens. The reason for its popularity is simple – it is inexpensive and offers good outward visibility. Fiberglass is also lightweight, flexible and corrosion-resistant. Some manufacturers may coat the fiberglass with PVC to improve its strength.
The greatest disadvantage of fiberglass is that it’s not as durable as other mesh materials. It is prone to tearing/fraying at the edges and tends to stretch over time. When exposed to strong sunlight for long periods of time, its strength will deteriorate and discolouration may also occur.
Pros
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Polyester mesh has been gaining popularity as an alternative to fiberglass mesh. It is flexible, tear-resistant and less prone to sagging, making it stronger and more durable. It is usually also coated with vinyl, which serves as an additional protective barrier. Polyester mesh coated with a thicker layer of vinyl is often used in pet screens. The thick vinyl coating grants increased resistance to abrasions, which makes it difficult for pets to damage the screen.
A downside of polyester mesh is that the thick coating results in a decrease in outward visibility. It is also more expensive than fiberglass. And if you’re opting for vinyl-coated polyester, you’ll have to fork out much more.
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Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) are mesh materials that have caught on in recent years. Both plastics are used in a wide variety of applications and are similar in physical properties. When used to make screen mesh, they are commonly available as PE mesh, PP mesh or PE + PP mesh (made with a combination of PE and PP).
Both PE and PP are strong fabrics that are tear-resistant and less prone to sagging. PE is a good electrical insulator and is slightly sturdier than PP. Meanwhile, PP has a higher chemical resistance and is more lightweight. Both are mildew-resistant and offer good outward visibility. Like the polyester mesh, most PE/PP mesh sold are coated to further enhance their strength and durability. Coated PE/PP mesh is also UV-resistant and waterproof.
While PE/PP mesh has many strengths, one drawback is that they are not suitable for pet screens. The coating on PE/PP mesh is not as thick, which makes it less resistant against scratches and damage caused by pets. PE/PP mesh is also more expensive than fiberglass mesh.
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Another material used to make screen mesh is aluminium. While popular in countries such as Australia and the USA, aluminium mesh is rarely seen in Singapore. Aluminium mesh offers superior strength and durability as well as excellent outward visibility. It cannot be torn and its rigidity means you won’t have to worry about the screen sagging. The mesh often comes in a protective finish that is corrosion-resistant.
However, as you may have expected, aluminium mesh is very expensive. It may also dent/crease upon heavy impact.
Pros
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Finally, we have the stainless steel mesh. Stainless steel is the strongest and most durable mesh material available. It is rust- and corrosion-resistant, offers excellent outward visibility and will not stretch or sag. Other than its natural colour, the mesh may also be powder-coated for a black finish which further improves visibility.
The main disadvantage of using stainless steel mesh is the cost. It is easily the most expensive mesh of the lot due to the premium material used. Additionally, the mesh may also dent or kink upon heavy impact.
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Seven insect screen types in doors and windows industry
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In order to facilitate the selection of the appropriate window insect screens, we listed some common styles of screens on the market and introduced some advantages and disadvantages here.
Currently, screens are divided into seven categories on the market:
Advantage of traditional insect screens
Low cost, economical and practical.
Disadvantages of traditional insect screens
Advantage of the second generation screens
They can be put away to save space when not use, and avoid prolonged exposure to prevent the damage and dirty problems.
Disadvantage of the second generation screens
Folding and invisible screens are not simple in structure. The frames and rails destroyed the structure of the window at a certain extent to make the window look bloated. If you choose a folding screen not good enough, yarn problems often affect the service life of the screens.
Roll yarn is the most popular product currently, and it's service life is relatively longer. It's easy to clean, beautiful in appearance and can save space. It solved many big problems in practical using.
Advantage of magnetic window screen
It's easy to install, uninstall and clean without any damage of the window structure. And it's strong and flat after installing.
Disadvantage of magnetic window screen
It's easy to degauss when the using time is long. And the seal performance is not guaranteed once the wind is strong.
Advantage of stainless steel window screen
It's simple to install, fireproof, anti- rat bite, and has good ventilation and security.
Disadvantage of stainless steel window screen
It's easy to produce deformation because of improper operation.
Advantage of stainless steel security window screen
With the electrophoretic paint treatment surface and the features of high strength, simple structure, corrosion sheers and impact resistance, Aluminum alloy steel security window screen is anti-theft, pest, harsh environment, and has good ventilation, aesthetics, security and other advantages.
Disadvantage of stainless steel security window screen
It's expensive.
Advantage of anti-pollen window screen
It has better light transmittance, ventilation, and durability than traditional window screen. It can achieve a strong dust barrier function without using electricity. Its known as "a magic window".
Disadvantage of anti-smog window screen
High price, not anti-theft.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Aluminum Window Screen. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.