Bifold Door Insect Screens Bring Modern Ventilation to London Victorian Home
In the heart of Richmond-upon-Thames, a family living in a beautifully renovated three-storey Victorian home were seeking a smarter way to keep their property cool, comfortable and insect-free. Having spent the previous summer swatting flies that have entered through open doors and windows, they knew they needed a solution before warmer weather returned. The priority was simple – maintain airflow without sacrificing comfort or cleanliness.
quick project info
Project
Insect protection for bifold doors and sash windows in London home
Concern
Pest prevention and improved airflow
Products
Distinction pleated screen x2, Serene window screen x4
Mesh
Standard 18:16 pleated insect mesh (pleated), Standard 18:14 standard insect mesh (window)
Colour
Distinction: Standard white, Window screens: Hipca White (RAL 9910)
finding The solution
Bespoke retractable screens for doors and windows
Located near Hampton Court Palace, their home featured generous patio bifold doors opening onto a private garden. While ideal for enjoying summer living, these doors also presented an open invitation to insects. They were keen to install bifold door insect screens that would allow them to leave the doors open for ventilation while protecting their living space from pests.
Having previously lived abroad, the homeowners were already familiar with the benefits of retractable fly screens and sought out Phantom Screens for our reputation in quality, precision and discreet design. After a site visit and expert consultation, we recommended two pleated screens for the garden-facing doors, paired with multiple window fly screens for the sash windows throughout the property.
Installation
Ventilation without the bugs
Our pleated screens are used for wider openings and serve as an ideal choice for homeowners seeking double door insect screens. These bifold door screens operate on a wire tension system for effortless, smooth gliding. Unlike rigid screens or bulky fittings, they retract completely into their cassette housing, preserving the home’s period charm and interior style. A low-profile bottom rail ensures easy access in and out of the garden – no need to step over or navigate around cumbersome frames.
The family also opted for window screens to enhance airflow in bedrooms and bathrooms, including the children’s rooms. These insect screens are fitted with soft-close technology and a child-safe design – no cords or loose parts – making them ideal for family homes. The screens were colour-matched to the existing window frames for a near-invisible appearance, with a mesh density that balances insect protection with maximum visibility and ventilation.
Our screens were selected to work in tandem with the family’s existing blinds, giving them full control over light and heat. While the blinds manage solar gain, the Phantom Screens provide continuous insect protection and allow natural breezes to flow through the property – transforming the home into a more breathable, liveable space.
The Result
Cool, calm and uninterrupted comfort
Thanks to their new fly screens, the family now enjoys an airy, well-ventilated ground floor with no compromise on appearance or usability. The bifold door screens have been especially transformative, allowing them to fully open their living space to the garden throughout the spring and summer. The robust mesh keeps out everything from midges to larger insects, while the durable, retractable design ensures smooth performance for years to come.
By installing these discreet yet effective insect screens, the homeowners have reclaimed their space from bugs, reduced their cleaning routine, and created a healthier living space – all while maintaining the beauty and integrity of their period property.
Make your bifolds worth it
Looking for London insect screens? Get in touch with our team today to discuss the benefits of bifold door insect screens. Check out this other case study to see why more homeowners are choosing retractable fly screens in London.
