If you're replacing the screen in a pool enclosure, patio enclosure, or screen room, one of the first decisions you'll face is choosing between 18x14 and 20x20 screen mesh.
At first glance, the difference may seem minor. However, the mesh you choose can affect airflow, visibility, insect protection, and overall comfort.
The numbers refer to the number of openings per square inch. An 18x14 screen contains 18 openings in one direction and 14 in the other, while a 20x20 screen has 20 openings in both directions. Because 20x20 mesh has a tighter weave, it provides greater protection against tiny insects but slightly reduces airflow.
For most Florida homeowners, the choice comes down to one question:
Do you value maximum airflow or maximum insect protection?
Both options are durable and designed for Florida's climate, but each serves a different purpose.
18x14 mesh is often considered the standard screen for pool enclosures throughout Florida.
Because the weave is slightly more open, it allows more air to move through the enclosure while maintaining excellent visibility.
This screen effectively blocks:
Homeowners frequently choose 18x14 mesh because it delivers a good balance of airflow, visibility, durability, and affordability.
Many homeowners appreciate that the screen feels less noticeable when looking through it.
20x20 mesh is commonly known as no-see-um screen because it helps prevent tiny insects from entering the enclosure.
The tighter weave creates smaller openings that block pests that may pass through standard screening.
This makes it especially popular in areas near:
If you've ever sat outside and been bitten by insects you could barely see, a 20x20 screen may solve that problem.
Many homeowners consider the upgrade worthwhile simply because it improves outdoor comfort.
One of the most common misconceptions we hear is that 20x20 mesh is automatically better than 18x14 mesh.
That's not necessarily true.
If your primary goal is maximum airflow and visibility, 18x14 may actually be the better choice. On the other hand, if your backyard backs up to a retention pond or canal, the added insect protection of 20x20 mesh can make a significant difference.
We typically recommend choosing the screen that solves the biggest problem you face rather than selecting the tightest weave available.
Because 18x14 mesh has larger openings, it generally allows more air to pass through the enclosure.
This can be especially noticeable during Florida's warmer months when homeowners rely on natural airflow to keep outdoor spaces comfortable.
With 20x20 mesh, airflow remains good, but the tighter weave creates a slight reduction compared to standard screening.
Most homeowners adjust quickly, but side-by-side comparisons often reveal the difference.
If maintaining an open view is important, 18x14 mesh typically performs better.
The larger openings make the screen less noticeable when looking out toward:
While 20x20 mesh still provides good visibility, the tighter weave can create a slightly softer appearance when viewed from a distance.
Homeowners in coastal communities such as Melbourne Beach, Satellite Beach, Indialantic, Vero Beach, and Sebastian often face unique challenges.
Many properties experience:
For these homeowners, the decision often depends on the property's location.
Homes directly on the water may benefit from 20x20 mesh, while inland properties often find 18x14 mesh provides the best balance of performance and comfort.
In most cases, 20x20 mesh costs more than 18x14 mesh because it uses a tighter weave and more material.
However, the price difference is often relatively small compared to the overall cost of a pool enclosure rescreening project.
Rather than focusing solely on cost, homeowners should consider:
Choosing the right screen the first time can help avoid future upgrades.
For the average pool enclosure, 18x14 remains the most commonly installed screen mesh.
It provides:
However, homeowners dealing with no-see-ums or frequent gnat activity often choose 20x20 mesh because of the added protection.
Neither option is wrong—the best choice depends on your property and lifestyle.
Mesh size is only one choice. Depending on your yard, your pets and how much privacy you want, one of these specialty screens may be a better fit for some or all of your panels.
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. Pet owners who choose standard screening often end up replacing damaged panels months later.
Strength and weave are separate choices. Heavy-duty vinyl-coated polyester mesh such as TuffScreen comes in both 18x14 and 20x20 weaves, so you can match your needs for airflow and visibility while adding strength for busy spaces with pets, kids, or heavy foot traffic.
If you regularly deal with no-see-ums, gnats, or other tiny insects, many homeowners find the upgrade well worth the investment.
Yes, slightly. The tighter weave restricts some airflow compared to 18x14 mesh, but most homeowners still find it comfortable.
In some cases, yes. Because the openings are larger, tiny insects may occasionally pass through.
18x14 mesh remains the most popular screen for pool cages and patio enclosures throughout Florida.
18x14 mesh generally provides better visibility because of its larger openings.
Slightly. The tighter weave can reduce visibility from outside, though it is not considered a privacy screen.
Absolutely. Many homeowners upgrade to no-see-um mesh when replacing aging screens.
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.
Yes. Florida Glass can often be installed on existing enclosures to improve privacy without replacing the entire structure.
20x20 mesh is often recommended for properties located near water where small insects are more common.
Yes. The tighter weave can help reduce the amount of small debris that enters the enclosure.
Screen lifespan depends on environmental conditions, sun exposure, storms, and maintenance, but both 18x14 and 20x20 mesh are designed for long-term outdoor use.
Whether you're building a new enclosure or replacing damaged screening, selecting the right mesh can make a significant difference in comfort and performance.
Our team can help you compare 18x14 and 20x20 screen options and recommend the best choice for your property.
Contact Lafferty Aluminum & Screening today to schedule your free estimate.
Call (321) 652-1078 to get started.
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.
