Logic tells us that, for the most part, having more of something is better. More money? Good. More energy? Also good. More friends? That would be nice.
As such, it follows that that having more security doors in your Phoenix-area home is inherently better than having just one (or none at all, which would be a pretty serious situation). If a door provides security from break-ins and the elements, imagine what two doors could accomplish!
Hence the appeal of the security screen door: it’s an extra layer of protection that tends to look pretty fashionable to boot. Because they’re a significant investment (they aren’t made of paper, after all), you’ll want to make sure that you know what’s available to you when shopping around. In addition to the various styles and materials used for the frame, there’s also the question of what the actual screen — sometimes a separate part, sometimes integrated with the rest of the design — is made from. This has a significant impact on the durability and effectiveness of your new door. Since the term “screen” covers quite a few different styles, don’t think the choice is a one-and-done sort of decision; many are fabricated with ease-of-use and convenience in mind rather than protection. Let’s take a look at your most common options.
- Stainless steel mesh screens are typically considered to be the most durable design available for residential installations, emphasizing security while still offering decent visibility and air circulation. They are ideal when paired with an outer door made of bar-less safety glass to create a dual-door setup that offers the best possible security solution for your home.
- Polyester weave screens are the next leading choice for those without the need (or budget) for the premium of steel. Also known as “super screens,” they won’t stand up to a break-in, but are a good choice for animal owners or those with children, as they are designed to be resistant to tearing or rips. When coupled with a traditional, barred steel frame, they provide a solid level of extra safety that is good for most homes while keeping out bugs and letting air flow when left open.
- Fiberglass mesh screens are the standard design that you’ll most often find in the majority of store-bought, prefabricated doors from sellers like Home Depot. They are more about comfort than security, giving good airflow and protection from UV rays and insects but too flimsy to withstand a potential burglar or a pet with particularly sharp claws.
Ultimately, it comes down to want you most want the screen for. Are you more concerned about extra security measures, or the comfort that comes from being able to leave a door open without inviting half of the insects in your neighborhood in? No matter your choice, a well-constructed frame will always provide the primary benefits of a good door: protection and assurance. But having a proper screen with it can work wonders in compensating for any weak points that a particular design may have — especially more open ones lacking closely spaced bars — while also giving you more freedom in keeping it open or closed. What works best is up to you!
Have questions about security screen doors? Leave them in the comments or contact us and we’ll be happy to answer them!