I switched over to aluminum screening a couple years back and honestly, it's been a mixed bag. It definitely holds up better against claws—my dog hasn't managed to shred it yet, which is saying something—but yeah, dents are an issue. Had a hailstorm last summer and ended up with tiny dimples all over the screen. Visibility-wise, I'd say it's clearer than pet-resistant fabric though...less darkening overall. Airflow seems about the same to me. Always trade-offs, I guess.
"Had a hailstorm last summer and ended up with tiny dimples all over the screen."
Yeah, aluminum screens can be surprisingly delicate when it comes to hail. I remember a storm we had a few years back—my neighbor's aluminum screens looked like they'd been through a golf ball attack, while my fiberglass ones were totally fine. But you're right about visibility; aluminum does seem clearer. Have you considered solar screening at all? I've heard it helps with energy efficiency, but I'm curious if it noticeably affects airflow or visibility...
"Have you considered solar screening at all? I've heard it helps with energy efficiency, but I'm curious if it noticeably affects airflow or visibility..."
Solar screens definitely cut down on heat and glare, but yeah, visibility can take a noticeable hit. Installed some on my west-facing windows last summer—here's my quick take:
- Visibility: Daytime visibility is decent enough from inside, but evenings can feel a bit dark and gloomy. If you love the bright, airy feel of aluminum screens, solar screens might disappoint.
- Airflow: Didn't notice any major difference in airflow compared to standard fiberglass screens. Still felt breezy enough to me.
- Durability: Surprisingly tough. Had some branches hit during a windstorm, and they held up way better than aluminum would have. No dimples or tears at all.
- Energy savings: Definitely saw a difference in room temperature. Less AC needed on hot afternoons, so that's a plus.
If clarity is your top priority, though, I'd probably stick with fiberglass or aluminum (despite the hail issue). Maybe consider heavier-duty fiberglass mesh? It's a decent compromise—better durability than aluminum, clearer than solar screens, and still pretty affordable.
Good points overall, but I'm not sure heavier-duty fiberglass mesh is really the sweet spot. Had it installed a couple years back and while visibility was decent, durability wasn't as impressive as I'd hoped—had some fraying after just one harsh winter. Have you looked into pet-resistant screens at all? They're pretty tough and visibility isn't too bad either...might be worth checking out if you're worried about durability without sacrificing too much clarity.
"Had it installed a couple years back and while visibility was decent, durability wasn't as impressive as I'd hoped—had some fraying after just one harsh winter."
Interesting you mention that—I had a similar experience with fiberglass mesh. Installed it thinking it'd hold up well, but after a couple seasons, I noticed some fraying too, especially around the edges. Haven't tried pet-resistant screens yet...do they handle temperature swings and UV exposure better in your experience? Curious if they're worth the extra cost long-term.
Interesting you both mention fiberglass screens—I had similar expectations initially. Installed mine about three years ago, and while they looked great at first, durability wasn't exactly stellar. After the second winter, I noticed some fraying and even a few small tears around the corners. To be fair, we get pretty harsh temperature swings here, so maybe that's part of it.
I switched to pet-resistant screens last summer, mostly because my neighbor swore by them. They're definitely thicker and feel more robust, but that also means they're slightly less transparent. As for UV exposure and temperature swings, so far they've held up better—no visible fraying or brittleness yet—but it's only been one year. I'd say cautiously optimistic at this point...but still skeptical if they'll justify the higher price tag long-term. Guess I'll have a clearer picture after another winter or two.
"I'd say cautiously optimistic at this point...but still skeptical if they'll justify the higher price tag long-term."
Totally get your skepticism—pet-resistant screens are beefier for sure, but give 'em a chance. Seen plenty survive harsh winters better than fiberglass. Fingers crossed yours hold up too...keep us posted!
I've had pet-resistant screens for about three years now—initially winced at the price too, but honestly they've held up great. Even survived my neighbor's cat climbing spree last summer...worth it in my book. Hope yours turn out solid too.
Pet-resistant screens are pretty solid, but I'm curious—anyone tried aluminum screens? I've seen them hold up surprisingly well against claws, and they're usually cheaper. Might be worth considering if budget's tight...though your neighbor's cat sounds like a real ninja, lol.