
Screen doors are a unique addition to your home, enhancing its functionality and visual appeal. They provide fresh air while also serving as a protective shield against dirt and debris. However, with various options of screen doors available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming for homeowners. This article will discuss different options for screen doors, their specifications, and tips for choosing the right one for your home.
8 Different Types of Screen Doors
Screen doors have evolved over the years. Nowadays, a variety of screen doors exist, including contemporary retractable screen doors and conventional swinging doors. Have a look at different types of screen doors:
1. Sliding Screen Doors
Sliding screen doors function on a track system, moving horizontally to open and close. Due to their large openings, they are a convenient option for your patio, porch, or deck. The vinyl or aluminum frame and the fiberglass screen present an expansive view. Many reputed companies use Teflon-infused plastics to manufacture track guides, which ensure smooth running.
Sliding screens are more than meets the eye; apart from giving an elite touch to your home aesthetics, they safeguard you against pesky bugs.
2. Retractable Screen Doors
Retractable screens can "retract" into their housing when not in use. If you're looking for a screen that saves space, consider investing in compact retractable screens.
Retractable screens are an excellent option for single and double doors. They contain fiberglass or polyester mesh screens held within an aluminum frame.
3. Motorized Screen Doors
Motorized screens are an ideal choice for large openings like patios, garages, and outdoor living spaces. They protect against insects and UV exposure and create a breezy and comfortable outdoor area. Additionally, they expand your living area and make it usable throughout the year.
Motorized screens are one of the most convenient options for your home. You can easily control them with a remote.
Thinking About Upgrading Your Home’s Entrance?
Let us help you. Call or Text Kenna Real Estate Group at 303-955-4220 to get personalized assistance from our expert real estate agents. Find out what your home is worth in today's market.
4. Large Opening Retractable Screen Doors
A large-opening retractable screen is a manual screen that slides along its track and then retracts into its housing. Due to its durability and user-friendliness, it is a perfect fit for porches, garages, bi-fold, and multipanel multi-dimensional sliding doors. Usually, a large-opening retractable screen is approximately 14 feet wide and 10 feet tall.
5. Storm Screen Doors
Storm doors are a hit for homeowners living in areas with harsh weather conditions. They are designed to shield your home against rain, snow, and wind. Storm doors usually contain tempered glass screens in an aluminum, vinyl, or wood frame.
These doors are distinctively versatile and durable. However, storm doors require extensive maintenance, regular cleaning, and lubrication. It is worth mentioning that storm screens are not a substitute for any challenging and sturdy front door and are only used in combination with one.
6. Magnetic Screen Doors
Magnetic screen doors have magnetic strips along the center seam, allowing them to open or close hands-free. To enter or exit, you must walk through the door's center, and the panels will open up. Once you have passed through the door, its panels will come together. Polyester mesh is commonly used for screens, which is helped by a PVC frame. Magnetic screen doors are easy to install, energy-efficient, and ideal for regions experiencing warm weather.
Some screen door companies provide magnetic screens with other doors, such as double retractable doors. You can also add magnetic strips to your customized retractable screen.
7. Pet Screen Doors
As the name indicates, pet screen doors come with pet-friendly flaps. Pet screens distinguish themselves by durable mesh screens, aluminum or plastic frames, and a flap that allows pets to pass through.
Pet screens are usually installed with sliding doors to allow your pet to walk around the yard. This is a great option because you do not need to cut a hole in your existing entrance door to accommodate your pet.
8. Customized Screen Doors
If none of the available options suit your requirements, you can opt for a custom-made screen door. The installer will look at the photo of the opening you submit and decide which screen will be best for your home. Custom screens can be manufactured for:
- French Doors
- Large Openings
- Bi-Fold Doors
- MultipanelMultipanel Sliding Doors
- Patio Doors
- Garage Doors
More than 20 color options are available for customized screens, along with different mesh options.
What Type of Screen Door is the Best for Your Home?
What type of screen door is best for your home? The perfect type of screen door that will complement your home's aesthetics and enhance its functionality depends on various factors. Some of these factors are listed below:
1. Types of Screens
Many different screen types are available, each with its own set of benefits. Compare the benefits of all screen types to find the best option for your home.
- Hinged Screens: Conventional hinged screens have hinges to open or close. They are durable and usually fabricated from aluminum, wood, or steel.
- Sliding Screens: Sliding doors move along a track to open or close. They are durable and save the space that hinges occupy. They are usually installed on the exterior of a home.
- Retractable Screens: These doors slide into a housing when not in use. They are compact and give your home a seamless look.
2. Materials
The type of material used for manufacturing your door determines its durability and appearance.
- Aluminum: Aluminum screens are lightweight, durable, corrosion-free, and require low maintenance. Their sturdiness and longevity make them a preferred choice among homeowners.
- Wood: Classic wooden screens add a touch of rustic charm to your home. They look elegant and can be painted or stained to complement your home's hues. However, they are vulnerable to weather damage and warping and require high maintenance.
- Steel: The steel screens surpass every other screen door type in terms of durability and security. However, their installation is challenging.
Thinking About Upgrading Your Home’s Entrance?
Let us help you. Call or Text Kenna Real Estate Group at 303-955-4220 to get personalized assistance from our expert real estate agents. Find out what your home is worth in today's market.
3. Screen Mesh Options
The type of mesh in your screen door can affect its functionality:
- Sun-Control Fabrics: Sun-control fabrics reduce the sunlight entering your home, lowering cooling costs. Solar screens protect your home against UV damage.
- Insect Control Fabrics: This type of mesh fabric contains tiny holes that allow the air to pass through but do not let the insects get through.
- Vinyl: Vinyl-coated fiberglass mesh is the most common, affordable, durable, and easy-to-use screen option.
- Privacy Fabrics: These fabrics are high-density. Screen mesh manufactured from these materials ensures privacy while allowing sunlight to enter your home.
Choosing the Best Screen for Your Home
When purchasing a new screen door for your home, it is better to familiarize yourself with different types of screens and then choose the best one. Your choice can be based on various factors, such as mesh fabrics and frame materials.
