Introduction
If you’re looking for a home improvement idea, consider retractable fly screens. Retractable fly screens not only expand the utility of your spaces; they can enhance the aesthetics and maximise your enjoyment.
So why do retractable fly screens make such a great addition to your home? Check out this complete guide. We cover everything you need to know about installation, types of screens, price, benefits, and more.
What are retractable fly screens?
Retractable fly screens can be installed on doors as well as windows. They’re fitted over the door or window. They’re not fixed so can be retracted and extended to provide coverage.
How do retractable fly screens work?
Retractable fly screens are made from a roll of mesh housed within a cassette, much like a roller blind. A spring-loaded tube enables effortless unrolling and rolling. The best retractable fly screens are discreet, with small tracks and compact housing that doesn’t take up a lot of space.
Retractable fly screens can be installed horizontally or vertically. Artilux’s retractable fly screens have soft closers added into the spring tensioning. This means the screen rolls gently back into the cassette effortlessly extension and retraction.
What materials are retractable fly screens made of?
Retractable fly screens are made from PVC coated fibreglass – The most common material is PVC-coated fibreglass, also known as nylon mesh. This material is resistant to corrosion, rusting, and staining.
The door types we can install retractable fly screens to
Retractable fly screens can be installed on bifold doors, french doors, and stacker and sliding doors:
Bifold doors
Bifold doors are usually larger than standard doors. Although it’s commonly believed that you can’t screen them, they can in fact be screened.
At Artilux, we offer a range of configurations for bifold doors to match how you use your doors. Our screen solutions can give you the confidence to open up your spaces and feel like you’re outside. They’ll fit seamlessly into your bifold door frame, with their discreet design ensuring minimal taking up of space.
French doors
The classic design of French doors (also known as French windows) offers an ideal framework for spectacular views. With retractable fly screens, you can enjoy unimpeded views and improved ventilation while keeping out the insects.
Artilux can install retractable screens that integrate seamlessly with your French doors. Our screens function smoothly and come with discreet cassette systems and tracks.
We can provide the right configuration depending on how your French doors open (inwards or outwards) and how you use them.
Stacker and sliding doors
Stacker and sliding doors are excellent options for space-saving doorways. If you have this type of door in your home, undoubtedly you’ll want to make full use of them by opening them up and bringing in the outdoors.
At Artilux, we can screen your stacker and sliding doors the right way. We understand the key is to have a discreet cassette and track system that blends into the environment without being a tripping hazard.
We’ll use the right configuration for screening your stacker and sliding doors depending on how you use them, without compromising their functionality or aesthetics.
What makes Artilux’s retractable fly screens special?
Artilux’s fly screens feature industry-leading design, offering the very best functionality and versatility for Australian households. Our retractable fly screens have 2 different types of configurations depending on the doorway or window and what you’re looking to achieve.
- Roll-away soft close – This configuration has a discreet cassette and track system. It gives you the option to roll out the screen when you need it and release it back into the cassette when you don’t need it.
- Roll-up soft close – With this type of solution, the screen can be pulled down when in use and rolled up when no longer needed. It’s a great solution for any window or small doorway when you don’t want to have a bottom track.
FAQs
How much do retractable fly screens cost?
Retractable fly screens start at around $450 for smaller windows and can range up to $900 for a medium-sized to large window.
For doors, retractable fly screens start at around $900 and may cost up to $10,000 depending on the size and other factors.
Is it safe to install a retractable fly screen if I live in a bushfire area?
Yes, you can install retractable fly screens for properties up to the BAL 40 (very high) level. However, you need to meet certain conditions, such as the type of materials your door is made from. Find out more about these conditions here.
What are the benefits of installing retractable fly screens in my home?
Retractable fly screens keep out unwanted guests like flies and mosquitoes while allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and views. This versatile addition to your home can be seamlessly installed onto many types of windows and doors. They look great and come in different options, colours, sizes, and sizes, for a high level of functionality and aesthetic appeal. The best retractable fly screens are designed to be high quality and long-lasting.
How to clean retractable fly screens?
You can clean the screen mesh by using furniture dusters or a soft-bristled brush. If you’re using the vacuum cleaner, use the soft nozzle brush attachment. Avoid excessive pressure so you don’t tear the mesh.
Cleaning the frame and tracks every six months to eliminate build-up. Start by fully retracting the flyscreen and using a soft cloth or vacuum cleaner (with the soft nozzle brush attachment).
If deposits remain, use a wet sponge to clean them away. For the most stubborn deposits, use a soft non-abrasive brush or cloth and mild detergent. Wipe down with an absorbent chamois cloth so you don’t get watermarks.
Never use scourer pads, steel wool, abrasive cleaning solutions, and any harsh products and materials on your retractable fly screens.
How to install retractable fly screens for bifold doors?
Bifold doors (folding sliding doors) bring in natural light, allowing you to enjoy the views with a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor spaces.
Bifold doors can be screened with retractable fly screens using these different configurations to support the optimum use of your doorway as an exit and entry point.
If all your door panels fold to one side, you can have one single fly screen covering the entire opening.
If you have an even number of panels opening in the middle, you can have a double screen that meets in the middle.
If you have an odd number of panels on one side (including just one panel on one side and multiple on the other), you can use a double screen with an offset element.
What type of fly screens can be installed on casement windows?
Casement windows have a side-hung frame hinged on the left or right. This type of window is pushed to open outwards. Given this, you need to install the screen on the inside of the window.
The best option is to use a retractable roll-up fly screen. The cassette is installed on the top of your window frame.
However, if you have a horizontal set-up, the cassette can be installed on the side of your window frame.
These configurations let you roll it down or across and easily retract the screen when you’re wanting coverage or opening or closing your casement window.
Conclusion
Retractable fly screens can be an excellent addition to your home, allowing you to bring in the outdoors without unwanted guests. They come in a range of materials and can be installed on just about any type of window or doorway. They’re easy to maintain, with minimal cleaning required. They’re a wonderful investment that looks great, lasts a long time, and optimises functionality in your spaces.
At Artilux, we’re happy to offer you a free on-site quote if you’re ready to take it a step further. Contact us with any questions you have about our fly screen products. We’ll help you find the best solution for your doorways and windows.
