Mosquitoes can be a nuisance when trying to enjoy time outdoors on your porch. Finding the right mosquito screen is key to keeping those pesky bugs at bay. The best mosquito screen for a porch should provide complete coverage, durability, and easy installation. With some careful consideration of your needs and options, you can find the ideal solution.
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What to Look for in a Mosquito Screen
There are a few key factors to evaluate when choosing a mosquito screen for your porch:
- Coverage – The screen should fully cover all entry points and not leave any gaps where mosquitoes could sneak in. Screens that cover the entire perimeter of the porch tend to provide the best protection.
- Material – Fiberglass, aluminum, or vinyl coated polyester are common durable screen materials. Fiberglass provides sharper visibility while vinyl coated polyester resists wear.
- Mesh holes – Smaller mesh holes block more mosquitoes. Screens with holes 18×16 or smaller per square inch are ideal.
- Frame – Sturdy frames made of aluminum, wood, or vinyl hold the screen taut and prevent sagging.
- Attachment method – Choose screens that can be securely attached to your porch with screws, magnets, or other effective means.
- Ease of use – Retractable screens and screens with easy on/off velcro attachments allow you to open and close off access conveniently.
Types of Mosquito Screens
There are several types of screens designed for use on porches. Consider which style makes the most sense for your space:
Full Porch Screens
Full porch enclosure screens cover the entire perimeter of the porch. This provides complete 360 degree protection from mosquitoes. It prevents mosquitoes from flying in from any angle. Full screens come in retractable,magnetic, or fixed styles.
Entryway Screens
Entryway screens cover just the main doorway into the porch. They are typically retractable screens mounted onto a track above the door. This focused coverage keeps mosquitoes from flying in through the entry point when the door is opened.
Window Screens
Window screens are custom fitted to fill in the gaps of screen windows on your porch. They prevent mosquitoes from sneaking in through corners, edges, or holes in your existing window screens.
Under Deck Screens
Under deck porch ceiling screens hang from the ceiling of the porch underneath an upper level deck. They create an airy ceiling barrier that blocks mosquitoes from dropping down onto the porch from above.
Best Materials for Mosquito Screens
Mosquito screens can be constructed using various materials. Here are some of the more common and ideal options:
Fiberglass
- Very durable while still letting air flow through
- Provides the best outward visibility
- Resists stretching, sagging, and tearing
- Typically coated with vinyl or acrylic
Aluminum
- Lightweight, corrosion resistant, and strong
- Withstands weather well
- Can be shaped into custom frames
- Prone to denting
Vinyl Coated Polyester
- Low maintenance and long lasting
- Resists UV rays, mildew, and water
- Often used to coat other materials
- Provides less visibility than bare fiberglass
Stainless Steel
- Extremely durable and damage resistant
- Expensive compared to other materials
- Prone to discoloration over time
- Used for screens in harsh environments
Key Considerations by Porch Type
The ideal mosquito screen solution may depend on the style and structure of your particular porch.
For Open Porches
- Full perimeter screening is best to seal off access from all sides
- Retractable screens allow you to open up when mosquitoes aren’t active
- Under deck screens provide overhead protection on lower level porches
For Enclosed Porches
- Focus on screening doors, windows, or gaps in existing screens
- Hinged door screens attach securely when door is closed
- Make sure screens let in air while keeping out mosquitoes
For Second Story Porches
- Full screens prevent mosquitoes already on the porch from escaping inside
- Under deck screens provide critical barrier from mosquitoes traveling from below
- Ensure screens are securely installed for safety at height
For Small Porches
- Retractable screens maximize use of limited space when not needed
- Magnetic screens offer easy on/off access to steps or walkways
- Entryway screens focused on door alone may suffice
Best DIY Installation Methods
Installing your own mosquito screens is a great way to save money. Here are some of the most DIY-friendly techniques:
Velcro/Hook & Loop Fasteners
- Allow easy on/off attachment to open and close access
- Available in adhesive strips to attach screen to door/window frames
- Reusable and adjustable
Magnets
- Enable screens to snap on magnetically to metal frames
- Secure enough for most applications
- Make screens easy to remove and reattach
Snap Fasteners
- Simple mechanical fasteners press into place
- Allow easy removal and reattachment as needed
- Inexpensive and easy to install on frames
Screws/Nails
- Permanently affix screens solidly in place
- Provide the most secure full time attachment
- Require tools and hardware best for wood frames
Top Ready Made Brands
These leading brands offer quality ready made mosquito screens ideal for DIY porch installation:
Phifer
- Industry leading fiberglass screen material
- Durable construction resists damage
- Customizable sizes and accessories
Andersen E-Z Screen
- Retractable porch screens operated by pull cord
- Vented designs improve air flow
- Easy DIY installation
Excel
- Affordable aluminum framed porch screen panels
- Available in full enclosure kits
- Easy to install with hooks, poles, or cables
Phantom
- Robust vinyl coated screens
- Custom made to your porch size
- Wide selection of colors
Conclusion
Finding the right mosquito screen is crucial for fully enjoying your porch during warmer months. Focus on complete coverage, high quality durable material, and easy DIY installation. Full perimeter screens provide the best protection for open porches. Targeted entryway and window screens may suffice for enclosed porches. Leading ready made brands like Phifer, Andersen, Excel, and Phantom offer reliable screens for easy DIY porch projects. With the right mosquito barrier in place, you can spend time on your porch pest free.