How Do I Choose the Right Screen for My Screen Door?

Last month we talked about how to repair your security doors and which repairs you can do yourself as well as the types of repairs you should leave to the professionals. One of the repairs you probably shouldn’t do on your own in spite of the how-to videos you can find online, is replace the screen on your security or other type of screen door.

But when it comes time to have a skilled security door professional replace your screens, how do you choose the right type of screens for your home? The answer is not as simple as you might think. Below we explore some of the factors to be aware of when it’s time for new screens on your doors and close with the types of screens we prefer here at Steel advantage in Phoenix, AZ.

Type

First, let’s take a look at some of the materials you’ll come across when it comes to screens.

1.Fabric: Fabric screens are probably the least durable. You can increase their durability by going for a tighter weave, but anybody with a cat knows that even the tightest fabric screen won’t stop them from ruining it, and a large dog can easily charge through it. Plus fabric screens offer zero security at all. They’re the classic screen door material from the early days of screen doors, but not the best choice if you’re looking for something that will keep your pets inside and criminals outside.

2. Weaved Aluminum: Aluminum screens are also not the best for security. But if you just want a screen for a regular screen door that’s a bit more durable than cloth, then aluminum might be an option for your doors. However, some pets can push through an aluminum screen door and escape. It’s something to consider before you make your final decision.

3. Perforated Metal: The strongest and most secure screens are made of perforated metal. These screens are extremely difficult to damage and like both fabric and aluminum come in a range of choices in the tightness of the weave. This material in any weave is the best choice if you have a security screen door. It’s more expensive than other materials, but well worth the extra cost when it comes to keeping your home, your children, and your furry friends safe.

Weave

So what about weave? We talked a little about it when we went over some common types of screens, but why consider weave when you’re thinking about replacing the screens on your security screen doors?

How sturdy the screen is on your doors is dependant on the tightness of the weave. A tighter weave in any material means a stronger screen. Again, a tight fabric weave doesn’t equal greater security, just a stronger fabric screen than one with a loose weave. Plus, with fabric screens, as you increase the tightness of the weave enough to protect your pets, you reduce the amount of light that gets through and your visibility through the screen door itself.

With a perforated metal screen, you can get away with a looser weave of mesh that still provides you with plenty of security, and keeps your pets from charging through the door every time someone knocks or rings your doorbell.

Cost

The material and tightness of the weave you choose will affect the cost of replacing your door screens. The tighter the weave, the more expensive it becomes. You will most likely see a $5 or more increase as you go up in tightness of the weave. And a perforated screen will cost somewhere between $125 to $180 or more for a full replacement, per door. However, because perforated metal gives you the best security and lasts the longest, it could save you money in the long run.

What we recommend:

When it comes to replacement screens for security screen doors, here at Steel Advantage, we recommend and specialize in 2 types of perforated metal screens and these are the same screen choices we offer in the custom security doors that we make as well.

1.Our new Super Bug Screen: This screen is a durable perforated metal that’s a sturdy 50% weave to allow light in while keeping your home safe.

2. Our New Sunscreen: This screen is a tight weave of 80% and helps keep your home cooler during the hot Phoenix area summers while also providing amazing security.

Ultimately you need to decide which type of screen is best for your home and the type of screen doors you own. We hope we’ve given you something to think about when it’s time to repair or replace your security door screens.

Have questions? Feel free to chat with us or add them to the comments section. We’d love to hear from you!