WHY DO INSECT SCREENS NEVER WORK PROPERLY?
Insect screens are a household feature that often seems like a great idea in theory but can be surprisingly frustrating in practice. You may have experienced this yourself: the screen on your window or door doesn’t quite keep out the bugs as promised, and you find yourself swatting away mosquitoes or flies despite having paid for a screen.
So, why do insect screens never seem to work properly? Let’s dive into some of the common reasons behind their shortcomings and explore how we might improve their effectiveness.
Poor installation
One of the biggest culprits behind ineffective insect screens is poor installation. Even the highest-quality screen won’t do its job if it’s not fitted correctly. Common slip ups to look out for are:
- Gaps
- Misaligned frames
- Loose screens
All of which can give insects an opening into your beloved home. To ensure a proper fit, the screen should be securely fastened to the frame and any gaps around the edges should be sealed.
How to avoid poor installation issues
Want the job done properly? Choose a fully fitted insect screen. You should receive a premium product with top service from professionals who fit them every day.
Be sure to do your research on the company you’re looking at purchasing from. Read through their customer reviews to ensure you’re giving your hard-earned money to a proven reliable business.
After installation, don’t forget that regular maintenance and checks can also help prevent issues. If issues arise with a fitted insect screen, bug the company you purchased from. They will make sure any issues you encounter are resolved (if covered under warranty).
Wear and tear
Screens are exposed to the elements and can deteriorate over time. Sunlight, rain, and wind can weaken screen material, causing it to become more susceptible to tears and holes.
Even small damage can be enough to let insects through. Regularly inspect your screens for any signs of wear and replace or repair them as needed to maintain their effectiveness.
Be rewarded with high quality screens
Most insect screens on the market are a quick low-cost solution installed by the homeowner. However, with bespoke, high-quality screens, you’ll be investing in a product which will protect your home from flies, spiders and more for the long run!
Inadequate mesh size
Insect screens can come in a variety of mesh types. The size and openness of the mesh plays a crucial role in determining how well they keep out insects.
Screens with larger mesh openings might let smaller insects through, while those with very fine mesh might become clogged with dust and debris.
Get expert advice
Finding the right balance is key. Generally, a mesh size of 18×16 is effective for most small insects. It’s best to ask the experts in screen companies about the effectiveness of their screens for complete transparency.
Improper maintenance
Insect screens require regular cleaning and maintenance to remain effective. The following things can build up on the screens when not regularly cleaned:
- Dust and dirt
- Cobwebs
- Insect remains
- Mould and mildew
This can lead to issues such as:
- Reduced ventilation
- Decreased insect protection
- Damaged materials
Cleaning screens every few months and inspecting for any damage can help keep them functioning as intended.
Design limitations
Sometimes the problem lies in the design of the screen itself. Screens that are not designed to fit the specific window or door shape, or have weak materials, might not perform well. Also, low quality screens may start to deteriorate after a few uses.
Opting for made-to-measure screens and investing in higher-quality materials will help you avoid these issues.
Conclusion
While insect screens are a practical tool for keeping bugs out of your home, they’re not invincible. Understanding the common reasons why they might not work properly can help you address these issues and improve their performance.
Be sure to do your research on the different types of screens available, read through customer reviews, and ask questions to different screens company’s specialists.
By selecting the appropriate screens for your home, and ensuring proper installation and regular maintenance, you can maximize the effectiveness of your insect screens and enjoy a bug-free environment.