Screen Material Options

Fiberglass Screen 18x14 vs 20x20

The fiberglass material used for enclosure screens are made by Phifer. Standard fiberglass screen is an 18 x 14 mesh.  A 20 x 20 mesh is also available that’s designed to stop no-see-ums also known as sand flies or sand gnats. It can be installed on screen enclosures, windows, and sliding screen doors.  

PROS: 18×14 screen has better visibility and air flow.  20×20 screens stops no see ums and pine needles.  

CONS: 20×20 screens reduces visibility and air flow.

18 x 14 Mesh
20 x 20

Super Screen

For this material we use the original manufacturer of Super Screen which is made by Twitchell.  This screen is a superior upgrade to the traditional fiberglass screen. It is fabric woven with a specially formulated UV resistant coating allowing it to last 3X longer than traditional screen.  It is pet resistant, animal/reptile resistant (claw marks).  It’s also a great investment for enclosures on a golf coarse because it is golf ball resistant with a 300% ball burst strength compared to traditional fiberglass screen.  It is woven in a 17×14 mesh so it looks just like traditional screen. Can be installed on patio enclosures, windows, and sliding screen doors.

PROS: Strong, lasts longer, resists animal damage and golf balls 

CONS: about 5% reduction in visibility 

Pet Screen

Pet screen is a durable, thicker woven mesh made specifically for screen enclosures to keep pets safely contained while letting air and light through. It’s tougher than standard fiberglass screen, reinforced with vinyl-coated polyester, so it resists clawing or tearing from cats, dogs, other critters or weed whackers. Installs in the bottom 3 foot panels perfect for patios, porches, or dog runs.

PROS: Very Strong  

CONS: Small reduction in visibility

Shade Screen

We use Twitchell’s version of a shade screen. The shade screen is a combination of the fine, super, and pet screen.  It is a polymer formula screening with a denser mesh pattern that provides an 80% sun blockage against the intense Florida sun due to the denser mesh pattern.  We choose to only carry the 80% version because it provides the best protection and visibility. The 90% becomes more of a wall than a screen.

PROS: 80% sun protection, visibility compared to other brands, strong, pet resistant

CONS: Reduces visibility and air flow

Florida Glass Screen

A standard 18×14 mesh fiberglass screen that has a semi transparent vinyl laminate.  It’s designed for the bottom 3 foot panels to stop dirt and water spashing onto the patio. It can also be used as a privacy screen.

PROS: Blocks water and dirt. Used for privacy.  Cheaper alternative to metal kickplates.

CONS: Not to be used in roof applications