The fly screen has become a staple of the Australian home. Fly screens allow air circulation in hot weather, while preventing insects and other elements from entering the premises. But what type of flyscreen should your home have?
The umbrella term “fly screen” refers to a material designed to cover the opening of your home’s windows and doors. It’s easy to think that all fly screens are similar to each other in terms of construction and materials, but there are actually many different varieties. Each type offers its own unique benefits, so it pays to do some research.
This article will explain the different types of fly screens available and the advantages and disadvantages of each.
The 2 main fly screen mesh types for retractable fly screens
The 3 main fly screen mesh types for retractable fly screens
There are three main types of fly screen mesh to consider when screening your retractable fly screens; PVC coated fibreglass, polyester, and stainless steel.
1. PVC Coated Fibre glass
Fibreglass mesh is the most common type of window screen mesh, as it’s affordable, resistant to rust and mildew. It’s made from vinyl-coated fibreglass threads and can be used in a number of different applications as heavy-duty, fine or standard grade. The fine variant is great for coastal area insect infestations, while a heavy-duty variant is preferred for harsher weather and high winds. Do note, however, that fibreglass mesh isn’t recommended for harsh weather conditions.
Polyester
Polyester screen mesh is more durable than fibreglass mesh and therefore it’s an ideal choice for pleated retractable screens. Polyester mesh offers the same level of visibility as fibreglass, however its toughness supports longtime use of moving retractable screen parts.
Polypropylene Mesh (PP Mesh)
Polypropylene mesh, more commonly called PP mesh, is a new material that is growing in popularity thanks to its durability and environmentally friendly makeup. PP mesh is more tear-resistant and less prone to sagging than fibreglass and polyester, and it has a high chemical resistance. PP mesh is lightweight, mildew-resistant and offers good outward visibility. Coated PP mesh is also UV-resistant and waterproof.
The 3 main types of fly screen mesh For Fixed Fly Screens
There are three main types of fly screen mesh to consider when screening your windows and doors; aluminum, PVC coated fibreglass, and stainless steel. The material you choose will determine how effective your screens are for your needs and how long your screens will last.
1. Aluminium Mesh
Aluminium fly screens are undoubtedly the top quality material available today for window screens. Their protective finish makes them extremely sturdy and durable, giving them a longer lifespan than fibreglass.
Aluminium screens provide excellent coverage and resistance against abrasions, corrosion, UV rays and rust and are easy to maintain. They are lightweight and can come in a range of colours, textures and patterns. Aluminium mesh is rigid and strong, making it more challenging to install than fibreglass, but it’s less likely to tear. It’s also suitable for bush fire prone areas up to a BAL rating of 29.
2. Fibreglass Mesh
Fibreglass mesh is the most common type of window screen mesh, as it’s affordable, resistant to rust and mildew, and it comes it different colours. It’s made from vinyl-coated fibreglass threads and can be used in a number of different applications as heavy-duty, fine or standard grade. The fine variant is great for coastal area insect infestations, while a heavy-duty variant is preferred for harsher weather and high winds. Do note, however, that fibreglass mesh isn’t recommended for harsh weather conditions.
Fibreglass mesh is soft and flexible and easy to install, making it a great choice for DIYers on a budget. It’s tight weave is susceptible to tearing however.
3. Stainless Steel Mesh
Stainless steel is a material renowned for its durability and while it’s more expensive than aluminium and fibreglass screens, its toughness ensures they stand the test of time. Stainless steel screens can be used for increased security of your home or in areas prone to bushfire for any BAL rating. They can also be a good option if you have pets that may scratch at your screens.
Comparing the different types at a glance
| Fiberglass | Polyester | Polypropylene Mesh (PP Mesh) | Aluminium | Stainless steel | |
| Best for | Retractable and Fixed | Retractable (Pleated) | Retractable | Fixed | Fixed |
| Cost | Inexpensive | Affordable | Expensive | Affordable | Expensive |
| Application | Suitable for moderate weather conditions. Lightweight and flexible for easy installation. Can be used in DIY screening on a budget. Not suitable for bush fire prone areas or security or pet screening. | Suitable for moderate to harsh conditions Professional installation is advised. | Suitable for harsh weather conditions, coastal areas, high humidity and bush fire prone areas up to BAL 29. Professional installation is advised. | Suitable for harsh weather conditions, coastal areas, high humidity and bush fire prone areas up to BAL 29. Sturdy and rigid and therefore requires professional installation. | Suitable for harsh weather conditions, security and pet screening, and bush fire prone areas up to BAL 40. Sturdy and rigid and therefore requires professional installation. |
| Durability | Can withstand moderate weather conditions. Highly resistant to dents and scratches but can tear easily. Dark-coloured fibreglass mesh can fade under UV light exposure. | Can withstand moderate weather conditions. Toughness supports longtime use of moving retractable screen parts Ideal in high-traffic areas | Can withstand harsh weather conditions | Can withstand harsh weather conditions and are corrosion-resistant | Can withstand the harshesyt of weather conditions. |
| Ventilation | Superior | Excellent | Superior | Excellent | Excellent |
| Maintenance | Easily cleaned with water and mild soap to remove dirt and debris. | Easily cleaned with water and mild soap to remove dirt and debris. | Easily cleaned with water and mild soap to remove dirt and debris. | Easily cleaned with water and mild soap to remove dirt and debris. May require occasional lubrication of the frames to ensure smooth operation. | Easily cleaned with water and mild soap to remove dirt and debris. May require occasional lubrication of the frames to ensure smooth operation. |
| Visibility | The fine mesh allows for maximum sunlight and excellent visibility | Slightly reduced visibility and sunlight due to a thicker mesh | The latest in Japanese nanotechnology for superior visibility and airflow. | Slightly reduced visibility and sunlight due to a thicker mesh | Slightly reduced visibility and sunlight due to a thicker mesh |
| Aesthetics | Customisable | Customisable | Customisable | Customisable | Customisable |
Factors to consider when choosing a fly screen material
Ultimately, the choice between fibreglass, aluminium and stainless steel fly screens depends on your specific needs, environmental conditions, and personal preferences. Consulting with a professional can help you make the best decision for your home.
Do you simply want to keep the bugs out or do you want added security? What’s your spending limit and how many doors and windows are needing screening? How often are you willing to maintain or replace your screens? How important is the look of your screens to the overall style of your home? What weather conditions will your screens be exposed to? These are all questions that need answering before you choose a mesh material.
From there, you’ll then want to think about factors such as unobtrusiveness. Retractable fly screens can be folded away completely, while fixed screens stay in position. While retractable fly screens might rank higher for unobtrusiveness by nature of their design, fixed screens can also come in unobtrusive colours and frames that blend into your window areas.
On top of this there are pleated fly screens, hinged fly screens and the various colour options, so talk to a fly screen expert about your needs and find the best option to meet those needs.
Fly screens are a common feature in Australian homes but that doesn’t mean that fly screens are a design decision that should be made easily. Do your research, talk to a trusted fly screen provider, and don’t underestimate the right fly screens’ impact on your home’s aesthetics, form and function.
