Window screening used to be made of bug barriers woven from horsehair. As textile looms evolved, galvanized screening replaced horsehair, but steel, despite its strength, was prone to rusting. Non-rusting alternatives like aluminum and fiberglass eventually supplanted steel. These materials are now the predominant choices in the market for window screening. Both aluminum and fiberglass offer excellent options for window screening. However, understanding the distinctions between them can help you make the appropriate choice for your specific needs.
Fiberglass screens provide good air flow as well as good outward visibility with minimal sunlight glare. These screens are also durable and don't tear as easily as fiberglass. Aluminum screens are rust resistant and won't sag. They're resistant to tears and more durable than fiberglass.
Over the years, fiberglass has become the go-to material for window screens due to its affordability and flexibility. It offers a wide range of options to suit various needs. Fiberglass is typically available in heavy-duty, fine, and standard grades. Fine fiberglass is particularly well-suited for areas with small insects, such as coastal and marshy regions. The standard grade is the most common and also the cheapest option available. Heavy-duty fiberglass is ideal for large windows that need strong screens. It is also great in windy regions as it can withstand harsh weather.
Fiberglass is prone to breakage and scratching, and over time it can become brittle. It offers up to 75 percent UV protection. Opting for a tighter mesh (18 x 16) can reduce visibility. In daylight, the screen may appear nearly opaque, but visibility from the inside remains good. Fiberglass is available in charcoal, black, gray, white, green, and blue, with gray and black being the most common colors.
Aluminum screens are crafted from Al-Mg alloy wire, making them a premium choice for window screening materials. They are usually offered in three colors: dark gray, black, and bright aluminum. Among these options, black is the least conspicuous. It's worth noting that darker colors provide superior outward visibility due to reduced glare and light reflectance. Dark gray aluminum can be effortlessly coordinated with frame systems and painted windows. Bright aluminum resembles raw aluminum but boasts a distinctive clear coating that aids in preserving the integrity of the aluminum screen.
Aluminum screening commonly comes in an 18 x 16 mesh and is suitable for both window and door installations. It boasts resistance to rust and corrosion while being lightweight. This screening is durable and robust, maintaining its shape without sagging. To enhance its weave, a protective finish is often applied. Available in pre-cut pieces or rolls, aluminum screening offers an affordable solution for window screens.
Fiberglass is generally more cost-effective than aluminum and is resistant to denting when pushed or struck. However, fiberglass tends to appear darker than aluminum mesh, resulting in reduced natural light entering the room. Another drawback of fiberglass is its susceptibility to degradation over time from prolonged exposure to UV light, leading to easier breakage and fraying compared to aluminum. Fiberglass window screens are typically sold in 100-foot rolls with widths ranging from 18 to 120 inches. While aluminum screens also come in 100-foot rolls, the available range is narrower compared to fiberglass, according to wire screen manufacturers.
In summary, both aluminum and fiberglass window screens have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice ultimately depends on personal preferences.
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