Not all pool enclosure screens are created equal. While many homeowners assume every screen mesh performs the same, different screen types are designed to solve different problems.
Some screens focus on airflow and visibility. Others are built to keep out tiny insects, withstand pets, or provide additional privacy from neighboring properties.
If you're building a new pool enclosure or replacing damaged screens, understanding the differences between your options can help you choose the best solution for your lifestyle, location, and budget.
At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, we help homeowners throughout Brevard and Indian River Counties select the right screen for their pool enclosures, patios, lanais, and outdoor living spaces.
Before selecting a screen type, ask yourself a few questions:
Your answers will help determine which screen material makes the most sense for your property.
For most Florida homeowners, 18x14 mesh remains the most popular pool enclosure screen.
This screen offers an excellent balance of visibility, airflow, durability, and insect protection. Because the openings are slightly larger than no-see-um screens, it allows more breeze to pass through the enclosure while still blocking mosquitoes and many common pests.
For many homeowners, standard 18x14 mesh provides everything they need without additional upgrades.
If you've ever been bitten by tiny insects that seem to pass through your screen enclosure, a no-see-um screen may be the answer.
20x20 mesh uses a tighter weave designed to help stop smaller pests that can often pass through standard screening.
This upgrade is especially popular for homes located near:
While airflow is slightly reduced compared to standard mesh, many homeowners feel the added insect protection is worth it.
Some homeowners love their screen enclosure but wish they had a little more privacy.
Florida Glass is a laminated screen material that allows light into the enclosure while limiting visibility from the outside.
It's commonly installed on the lower sections of pool enclosures where neighboring homes, roads, or common areas may overlook the backyard.
Many homeowners combine Florida Glass with traditional screen mesh for the perfect balance of privacy and openness.
If your dog likes to jump on the enclosure or your cat enjoys climbing screens, standard mesh may not last long.
Pet-resistant screens are manufactured using stronger materials designed to resist tears, punctures, and damage caused by claws or daily wear.
Although pet screens cost more than standard mesh, they often save homeowners money on future repairs.
There isn't a single screen that's best for every situation.
The lifespan of your enclosure screen depends on:
In coastal areas like Melbourne Beach, Satellite Beach, and Indian Harbour Beach, environmental conditions can be especially demanding on screens and enclosure hardware.
Choosing quality materials and professional installation can significantly extend the life of your enclosure.
One of the most common mistakes we see is homeowners choosing a screen based solely on price.
A homeowner living near a retention pond may save money upfront with standard mesh but end up frustrated by no-see-ums. Likewise, pet owners often choose standard screening only to replace damaged panels months later.
The best screen isn't always the least expensive option—it's the one that solves the problem you're actually trying to fix.
That's why we always recommend discussing how you use your outdoor space before selecting a screen type.
If only one or two panels are damaged, a repair may be all that's needed.
However, if your enclosure has multiple damaged panels, fading screens, or aging mesh, a full rescreen often provides a better long-term solution.
A professional inspection can help determine which option makes the most financial sense.
Our team has helped homeowners throughout Brevard and Indian River Counties improve their outdoor living spaces with professionally installed screen systems.
When you work with Lafferty, you receive:
We believe every homeowner should understand their options before making a decision.
For most homeowners, 18x14 mesh provides the best balance of airflow, visibility, durability, and insect protection. Homes near water often benefit from upgrading to 20x20 no-see-um mesh.
If you regularly deal with gnats, biting midges, or no-see-ums, many homeowners find the upgrade well worth the investment.
Yes, slightly. Because the weave is tighter, airflow is reduced compared to 18x14 mesh, but many homeowners consider the added insect protection a worthwhile tradeoff.
Yes. Florida Glass can often be installed on existing enclosures to improve privacy without replacing the entire structure.
Pet-resistant screen is specifically designed to withstand scratching, climbing, and pressure from dogs and cats better than standard mesh.
The lifespan varies based on environmental conditions, but many screens last several years before replacement becomes necessary.
Absolutely. Many homeowners choose to upgrade during a rescreening project.
Standard 18x14 mesh generally provides the best combination of visibility and airflow.
No. It provides privacy while still allowing light to enter the enclosure.
That depends on the age and condition of the existing mesh. A professional inspection can help determine the most cost-effective option.
Whether you're replacing damaged screens, upgrading your enclosure, or building a new outdoor living space, our team can help you select the right screen material for your needs.
Contact Lafferty Aluminum & Screening today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your pool screen options.
Call (321) 652-1078 to get started.
"Lafferty did an amazing job! We love our new screen. They were very professional and we had our finished screen before expected. We recommend Lafferty to everyone."
"Lafferty did an excellent job on our unconventional screening project. The office staff was responsive and friendly. From consultation to installation, all of our questions and concerns were addressed."
"Lafferty did an excellent job installing our pool screens. The are prompt and keep you well informed concerning the job! I would definitely hire Lafferty Screens again!!"
"We are very satisfied with our new fence and work done by Lafferty Aluminum. Quality, professionalism, and reliability working with Lafferty has been very good and I am happy we chose them."
"Lafferty was one of the easiest and smoothest company's to work with. We are building our home and these guys were so customer friendly, answered all our questions, was available to take our call if we had questions."
"Friendly service, professional attitude of employee, polite and they cleaned up as they worked. We had our pool enclosed redone after hurricane damage and now it looks great. Thanks"
"Lafferty did a fantastic job from start to finish on the patio pavers and aluminum screening. They completed the project on time, and perhaps even a little ahead of schedule!"
"I couldn't be happier with the work performed by Lafferty. They replaced my original screen house in February in a professional and timely manner. I would highly recommend them for your screen enclosure needs."
We're excited to learn more about your needs and provide you with a personalized quote. Please fill out the form, and our team will get back to you with a detailed estimate to kickstart your project.
