Window screen

Cover for the opening of a window

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A window screen (also known as insect screen, bug screen, fly screen, flywire, wire mesh, or window net) is designed to cover the opening of a window. It is usually a mesh made of metal, fibreglass, plastic wire, or other pieces of plastic and stretched in a frame of wood or metal. It serves to keep leaves, debris, bugs, birds, and other animals from entering a building or a screened structure such as a porch, without blocking fresh air-flow.

Most houses in Australia, the United States and Canada and other parts of the world have screens on windows to prevent entry of flying insects such as mosquitoes, flies and wasps. In some regions such as the northern United States and Canada, screens were required to be replaced by glass storm windows in the winter, but now combination storm and screen windows are available, which allow glass and screen panels to slide up and down.

For screens installed on aluminium frames, the material is cut slightly larger than the frame, then laid over it, and a flexible vinyl cord, called a spline, is pressed over the screen into a groove (spline channel) in the frame. The excess screen is then trimmed close to the spline with a sharp utility knife. Common spline sizes range from 3.6 mm (0.140 in) to 4.8 mm (0.190 in), in increments of 0.25 mm (0.010 in).

The spline is often manufactured with parallel ridges running along the length of the spline to provide a better grip and compression when it is pressed into the spline channel. A spline roller &#; a special tool that consists of a metal (or plastic) wheel on a handle &#; is used to press the spline into the frame. The wheel edge is concave, to help it hold the spline and not slip off to the side. Some spline rollers are double-ended and have both convex and concave rollers; the convex roller can be used to seat the spline deeper into the channel without risk of cutting the screen. Driving the spline into the channel tends to tension the screen on the frame, so the installer must avoid pre-tensioning the screen excessively to prevent the frame from becoming warped.

History

"Wove wire for window screens" are referenced in the American Farmer in .[1] Advertisement for wire window screens also appeared in Boyd's Blue Book in . Two wire window screens were exhibited at Quincy Hall in Boston in .

In Gilbert, Bennett and Company was manufacturing wire mesh sieves for food processing. An employee realized that the wire cloth could be painted gray and sold as window screens and the product became an immediate success. On July 7, , Bayley and McCluskey filed a U.S. Patent, number for screened roof-top rail-car windows, allowing ventilation, while preventing "sparks, cinders, dust, etc." from entering the passenger compartment. By , E.T. Barnum Company of Detroit, Michigan advertised screens that were sold by the square foot.[2]

Window screens designed specifically to prevent insect entry were not patented in the United States, although by several patents were awarded for particular innovations related to window screen design. By the s, parasitic diseases were largely eradicated in the United States in part due to the widespread use of window screens.[3] Today many houses in Australia, the United States and Canada have screens on operable windows.[4]

Uses

A window screen prevents insects flying or crawling into a house without obstructing the view or airflow through the window. It is not generally intended to prevent young children from falling out of the window, stop home intruders, or defend against larger animals.

Collecting water

Screen mesh may collect condensation. This effect has been used to collect water from fog.[5]

Decoration

Screen painting is a folk art consisting of paintings on window screens. It is also possible to print images directly onto fiberglass screen cloth using specially designed inkjet printers.

Fabric types

The most common materials used for the mesh of window screens are aluminum and fiberglass. Aluminum is generally available in natural aluminum or in an applied black or charcoal color, which make the screening less visible. Fiberglass is available in light gray as well as charcoal colors, the charcoal again offering better viewing and appearance. Fiberglass is less expensive, and has the advantage of not "denting" when hit or pushed, but it is somewhat more opaque than aluminum. For this reason, dark aluminum allows a better view of windows from the exterior, detracting less than fiberglass from the architectural effect of traditional divided-light window styles.

For applications requiring greater strength, such as screened doors (which have a larger area than windows), nylon and polyester screening is often used. However, these materials are not generally used for smaller applications such as window screens.[6]

Bronze insect screening is much more expensive, but gives much longer service than either aluminum or fiberglass. When first installed, it has a bright gold color; this weathers to an unobtrusive dark charcoal within a year or less. Weathered bronze darkens the external appearance of windows to approximately the same degree as charcoal or black aluminum. Bronze is somewhat more resistant to denting than aluminum. Less common screen fabrics include copper, brass, stainless steel, and galvanized steel. For coastal locations, corrosion resistance usually requires the use of bronze or synthetic screening fabric.

Some manufacturers offer screening that promise to substantially reduce the visibility of the screening. Several manufacturers offer screens that roll into a pocket when not in use. These are available for casement windows as well as other types of window and door openings.

Do-it-yourself screen and frame replacement kits are widely available at hardware and home improvement stores. One kind is composed of straight aluminum sides (which can be cut to size) and plastic corner inserts. Screen replacement kits usually consist of a roll of nylon screening fabric and a generous supply of rubber spline.

In addition to insect screening, denser screen types that also reduce sunlight and heat gain are available. These offer significant potential energy savings in hot climates.[citation needed] Other manufacturers offer screens designed to filter for pollen and dust.

Temporary, removable screens that fit within window tracks of double-hung windows are a common expedient widely available in hardware and home improvement stores. Typically 30 to 76 centimetres (12 to 30 in) high, these screens are wedged beneath the lower sash of a double-hung window and secured laterally by the tracks of the window. A sliding mechanism allows the screen to be adjusted laterally to fit the width of most windows, which also allows the screen to fit securely within the tracks below the open sash.

Screen sizes

Typically, metal screen frames (roll form) are 6.4 mm (1&#;4 in), 7.9 mm (5&#;16 in), 9.5 mm (3&#;8 in) or 11 mm (7&#;16 in) in thickness by 19 mm (3&#;4 in) and 25 mm (1 in). The most common sizes are 7.9 mm (5&#;16 in) and 11 mm (7&#;16 in) by 19 mm (3&#;4 in). The 6.4 mm (1&#;4 in) and 7.9 mm (5&#;16 in) sizes are generally used for single hung windows, while the two larger sizes are used for double hung windows. As 9.5 mm (3&#;8 in) is not a common size, the 7.9 mm (5&#;16 in) thickness may be used instead and shimmed as needed. They come in a variety of colors including unpainted, white, bronze, tan, black, desert sand, etc. The screen may also include a crossbar for added strength.

Fiberglass screen material is typically available in 30 m (100 ft) rolls in varying widths, from 46 to 305 cm (18 to 120 in) wide. Aluminum screen material is available in 30 m (100 ft) rolls except the range of available widths is less than for the more commonly used fiberglass. The fineness of a screen mesh is measured in wires per inch on the warp (length) and the weft or filler (width). An 18×14 mesh has become standard; 16×16 was formerly common and other common sizes are 18×18 and 20×20. For comparison, a typical screen in a clothes dryer has a nylon 23x23 mesh screen.

Fiberglass solar screens provide over 75% of UV protection, by using thicker strands and a closer mesh than regular 18x14 fiberglass window screening. There is some reduction in visibility, but this can be advantageous, since solar screens are difficult to see through from the outside, while easier to see through from the inside.

Finer meshes have been developed to prevent very small insects, often called "noseeums" from flying through. The finer mesh screens are also used to prevent pollens and allergens from entering homes in order to control allergic reactions.

Gallery

• A pierced window screen brings light into the mandapa at Manikesvara Temple in Lakkundi, Lakkundi

• A window with an insect screen

• Sailors assigned to the dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46) replace a protective window screen at Kalalake Elementary School during a community service project

See also

Notes

When it comes to our homes, we often think about the big picture &#; the architecture, the furniture, and the layout. However, the little details can make a significant difference in our everyday lives. The humble window screen is one such detail that often goes unnoticed but plays a crucial role in our comfort. In this blog, we'll explore the many benefits of window screens, focusing on FlexScreen, the world's first and only flexible window screen - a cutting-edge innovation.

1.Protection from Pests and Insects

One of the most obvious and immediate benefits of window screens is their ability to keep unwanted pests and insects out of your home. Insects like mosquitoes, flies, and ants are not only annoying but can also carry diseases. With window screens, you can enjoy the fresh air without fearing these intruders entering your living spaces. This added layer of protection ensures a more comfortable and healthier living environment.

2. Improved Ventilation and Airflow

Window screens allow you to keep your windows open, promoting natural ventilation and airflow. Many studies have been done on the health benefits of fresh air. Because we can't be outside all of the time, opening our windows is particularly important for our health. Not only is fresh airflow good for you, but it's also beneficial for your home! It can help clear toxins, regulate indoor temperature, reduce the need for artificial cooling, and make your home more energy-efficient.

3. Sunlight without the Hassle

While we all love natural light, excessive exposure to direct sunlight can lead to issues like glare, increased heat, and the fading of rugs, furniture, and even hard surfaces. Window screens act as a filter for sunlight, reducing the intensity and glare while still allowing you to enjoy the benefits of daylight. This way, you can keep your home well-lit and comfortable without sacrificing your view. FlexScreen offers a variety of mesh types, including a Flexview Solar mesh upgrade that will block up to 70% of UV rays and help to keep your home cooler.

4. Protection from Debris and Pollen

Window screens are also effective at preventing debris, leaves, and even pollen from entering your home. This is especially valuable if you have allergies or sensitivities to pollen, as it can help reduce indoor allergen levels. Additionally, window screens prevent leaves and other debris from clogging your windowsills or damaging your indoor space.

5. Easy Maintenance and Cleaning

Old-style aluminum window screens can be a hassle to clean and maintain due to the complicated hardware, flimsy nature of the materials, and complex installation and removal process. However, FlexScreen, a modern innovation in window screen technology, simplifies the process. Made of a flexible PVC-coated spring steel frame, FlexScreen can be easily removed, cleaned, and reinstalled without the need for tools or frustration. This makes keeping your window screens clean and functional a breeze.

6. Durability and Longevity

FlexScreen also stands out for its durability and longevity. Traditional screens are prone to damage from pets, children, or harsh weather conditions. FlexScreen, on the other hand, is designed to withstand these challenges thanks to its sturdy construction and flexible frame. This means fewer replacements and more cost-effective window screen solutions over time.

7. Aesthetic Appeal

The aesthetics of your home are essential, and window screens can contribute positively to the overall look of your windows. FlexScreen, in particular, boasts a sleek and minimalist design that enhances the appearance of your windows without obstructing your view or the architectural beauty of your home. Traditional aluminum window screens, on average, block an entire square foot of view through your window. FlexScreen's low-profile frame virtually disappears into the window's screen track for a clean, unobstructed view every time.

8. Environmentally Friendly

In an era of rising environmental consciousness, window screens offer eco-friendly benefits. By allowing you to rely more on natural ventilation and less on energy-intensive air conditioning systems, window screens contribute to reduced energy consumption, lower utility bills, and a smaller carbon footprint. Also, FlexScreen is the only window screen company that can boast its own line of proprietary mesh that is 100% ortho-phthalate free. This potentially dangerous chemical has been banned in many other countries but is still found in every other mesh product in the US market.

Whether you're looking to keep insects at bay, improve airflow and ventilation, or protect your home from debris, window screens are an indispensable part of any well-maintained household.

With its innovative design, durability, easy maintenance, and aesthetic appeal, FlexScreen offers a superior solution for those looking to maximize the advantages of window screens while minimizing the hassles. So, the next time you gaze out of your beautifully screened window, remember the countless ways window screens contribute to making your home a more comfortable haven.