The Ultimate Guide to Retractable Fly Screens

If you're considering home improvement options, retractable fly screens are worth your consideration. These screens not only increase the functionality of your living spaces but also add to the aesthetic appeal of your home while maximizing your comfort and enjoyment.

But why are retractable fly screens such a fantastic addition to your home? In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into everything you need to know about their installation, types, pricing, benefits, and more.

What Are Retractable Fly Screens?

Retractable fly screens can be installed on both doors and windows. They are fitted over the door or window openings and are not fixed in place, allowing them to be easily retracted and extended to provide coverage as needed.

How Do Retractable Fly Screens Work?

Retractable fly screens consist of a roll of mesh housed within a cassette, similar to a roller blind. These screens feature a spring-loaded tube mechanism that facilitates effortless unrolling and rolling. The best retractable fly screens are designed to be discreet, with small tracks and compact housing that minimizes space requirements.

What Materials Are Retractable Fly Screens Made Of?

Retractable fly screens are typically constructed from PVC-coated fiberglass, also known as nylon mesh. This material is chosen for its resistance to corrosion, rusting, and staining, ensuring durability and longevity for the screens.

The Door Types Compatible with Retractable Fly Screens

Retractable fly wire screens can seamlessly integrate with various door types, including:

Bifold Doors

Bifold doors, known for their expansive size, can indeed be equipped with retractable fly screens. Contrary to popular belief, screening these doors is possible, providing effective insect protection while maintaining functionality and aesthetics.

French Doors

French doors, characterized by their classic design and ability to offer stunning views, are ideal candidates for retractable fly screens. By installing these screens, you can enjoy unobstructed views and enhanced ventilation while keeping insects at bay.

Stacker and Sliding Doors

Stacker and sliding doors are excellent choices for space-saving entryways. If you have these types of doors in your home, incorporating retractable fly screens allows you to fully utilize them by seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces while ensuring insect-free living environments.

Benefits of Installing Retractable Fly Screens

Installing retractable fly screens in your home offers several advantages:

1. Insect Protection: Retractable fly screens effectively keep out unwanted guests such as flies and mosquitoes, allowing you to enjoy fresh air and unobstructed views without the nuisance of insects.

2. Versatility: These screens can be seamlessly installed on various types of windows and doors, enhancing the functionality of your living spaces while maintaining their aesthetic appeal.

3. Variety of Options: Retractable fly screens are available in different options, colors, and sizes to suit your preferences and match your home's décor, ensuring a high level of customization.

4. Durability: The best retractable fly screens are designed to be high-quality and long-lasting, providing reliable insect protection and ventilation for years to come.

How to Clean Retractable Fly Screens

Cleaning retractable fly screens is a straightforward process:

- Screen Mesh: Use furniture dusters or a soft-bristled brush to clean the screen mesh. If using a vacuum cleaner, attach the soft nozzle brush attachment and avoid applying excessive pressure to prevent tearing the mesh.

- Frame and Tracks: Clean the frame and tracks every six months to remove any build-up. Fully retract the flyscreen and use a soft cloth or vacuum cleaner with the soft nozzle brush attachment. For stubborn deposits, use a wet sponge or soft non-abrasive brush with mild detergent. Wipe down with an absorbent chamois cloth to prevent watermarks.

- Avoid Harsh Products: Never use scourer pads, steel wool, abrasive cleaning solutions, or harsh materials on your retractable fly screens, as they can damage the mesh and frame.

Fly Screens for Casement Windows

Casement windows feature a side-hung frame hinged on the left or right, opening outward when pushed. Due to this configuration, fly screens for casement windows need to be installed on the inside of the window.

The most practical option for casement windows is a retractable roll-up fly screen. The cassette containing the screen is typically mounted on the top of the window frame. However, if your window setup is horizontal, the cassette can alternatively be installed on the side of the frame.

These flexible configurations allow you to easily roll the screen down or across when needed, providing coverage while still allowing for convenient opening and closing of your casement window.

Conclusion

Retractable fly screens can be an excellent addition to your home, allowing you to bring in the outdoors without unwanted guests. They come in a range of materials and can be installed on just about any type of window or doorway. They’re easy to maintain, with minimal cleaning required. They’re a wonderful investment that looks great, lasts a long time, and optimises functionality in your spaces.

At XZH, we’re happy to offer you a free on-site quote if you’re ready to take it a step further. Contact us with any questions you have about our fly screen products. We’ll help you find the best solution for your doorways and windows.