Why Choosing the Right Types of Lanai Screens Matters More Than You Think

The types of lanai screens available today go far beyond a simple roll of mesh — and the choice you make will directly affect how much you enjoy your outdoor space for the next decade.

Here's a quick overview of the most common lanai screen types:

Screen TypeBest ForAvg. LifespanFiberglass (18x14)Budget-friendly standard use7-8 yearsNo-See-Um (20x20)Blocking tiny insects on the coastSimilar to base materialSolar/Privacy MeshHeat and glare reductionVariesPet-ResistantHomes with active petsVaries

Most Florida homeowners are surprised to learn there are this many options. And each one performs very differently depending on your climate, lifestyle, and budget.

Florida's combination of intense UV exposure, high humidity, salt air, and storm season makes screen selection genuinely important — not just a cosmetic decision. Pick the wrong material, and you could be rescreening your lanai every three or four years. Pick the right one, and it can last two decades.

I'm Cody Lafferty, and with over 10 years of hands-on experience in aluminum and screening across Florida, I've seen how the wrong types of lanai screens can fail prematurely — and how the right ones hold up beautifully through years of sun, rain, and everything in between. Let's walk through every option so you can make a confident, informed choice.

Types of lanai screens terms to know:

• Screened-in lanai cost
• Screened-in lanai ideas
• Screened lanai

Common Materials Used in Different Types of Lanai Screens

When we talk about types of lanai screens, we are primarily discussing the material the "thread" is made of and how tightly those threads are woven together. In the Space Coast and Treasure Coast regions, the material choice is your first line of defense against the elements.

Fiberglass: The Standard Choice

Fiberglass is the most common material used in Florida lanais today. It is incredibly popular because it is budget-friendly, flexible, and easy to work with. Most standard fiberglass screens feature a PVC coating that provides essential rust and corrosion resistance—a must-have for our humid climate in places like Palm Shores.

The industry standard for fiberglass is the 18x14 mesh. This means there are 18 openings per inch in one direction and 14 in the other. It offers a great balance of visibility and airflow while keeping out larger pests like mosquitoes and flies. While it is the most affordable of the types of lanai screens, it does have a shorter lifespan compared to premium options, typically lasting about 7 to 8 years before the Florida sun begins to make it brittle. If you are looking for a reliable, cost-effective way to enjoy your Lanai Screens, fiberglass is a solid starting point.

Polyester: The High-Durability Option

If you plan on staying in your home for a long time, polyester is often the superior choice. Polyester screen mesh, such as TuffScreen, is significantly stronger than fiberglass—often cited as being 100% stronger in terms of tear and tensile strength.

These screens are designed to handle the "rough and tumble" of Florida life. They are coated with a specialized UV-tolerant vinyl and often include a biocide to resist mildew and algae growth—a common problem in damp areas like Winter Beach. Many polyester options come with a 10-year warranty, and simulated testing suggests a life expectancy of 21 years or more. For homeowners searching for a Lanai Screen Enclosure near me that won't need constant maintenance, polyester is worth the initial investment.

Aluminum and Metal Mesh Types of Lanai Screens

Aluminum screens were the gold standard for decades before fiberglass took over. They are prized for their rigid structure and traditional look. Unlike fiberglass, aluminum doesn't stretch or sag as easily, which keeps your enclosure looking crisp for years.

In coastal areas like Titusville or Cape Canaveral, aluminum is often chosen for its durability. It is non-combustible and resists corrosion well, though it can eventually oxidize if the protective coating is scratched. Stainless steel and copper-bronze are also available for specialty or historic applications, offering extreme strength and a unique aesthetic, respectively.

Specialized Mesh for Unique Florida Challenges

Florida living presents challenges that standard screens sometimes can't handle. From the tiny biting midges on the coast to the blistering afternoon sun in Melbourne, specialized types of lanai screens are designed to solve specific problems. If you're worried about the cost of these upgrades, there are flexible financing options available to help you get the protection you need.

No-See-Um Screens for Tiny Pests

If you live near the water in Melbourne Beach or Sebastian, you know all about "no-see-ums." These tiny biting gnats can fly right through a standard 18x14 screen.

The solution is a 20x20 mesh. This tighter weave is specifically designed to block the smallest insects while still allowing for adequate airflow. It’s a game-changer for people who want to enjoy their Lanai Screen Enclosure in Melbourne during the early morning or evening hours when these pests are most active.

Solar and Privacy Types of Lanai Screens

The Florida sun can make a lanai feel like an oven by 2:00 PM. Solar screens are engineered to block up to 90% of the sun's heat and UV rays before they ever reach your patio. This not only keeps you cooler but also protects your outdoor furniture from fading.

Similarly, privacy screens (often called Florida Glass or Privacy Mesh) use a denser weave or a laminated coating to obscure the view from the outside. These Lanai Privacy Screens are perfect for homes in high-traffic areas or neighborhoods where houses are built close together, like parts of Viera West.

Pet-Resistant Screens for Active Households

Standard screens are no match for a 60-pound dog or a cat with sharp claws. Pet-resistant screens are made from heavy-duty, vinyl-coated polyester that is up to seven times stronger than standard mesh.

These screens are designed to withstand scratching, climbing, and the occasional "enthusiastic" bump from a pet. They provide peace of mind for pet owners in Indialantic and Rockledge, ensuring your furry friends stay safely inside without ruining your Lanai Screen Enclosure.

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting Your Screen

Choosing between the different types of lanai screens involves balancing several competing factors. Here is what we recommend our customers in Brevard County consider:

1. Mesh Density: A tighter mesh (like 20x20) blocks more bugs but also reduces airflow and visibility. If you don't have a no-see-um problem, a standard 18x14 mesh usually provides a better "invisible" look.
2. Visibility: If you have a beautiful view of the Indian River or a golf course in Viera, you'll want a screen with high transparency. Fiberglass typically offers the best visibility-to-cost ratio.
3. Maintenance: Aluminum screens may need more attention to prevent oxidation, while polyester screens are largely "set it and forget it" due to their antimicrobial coatings.
4. Cost: While standard fiberglass is the cheapest upfront, the "cost per year" is often higher than polyester because you have to replace it more frequently.
5. Environment: Homes in Satellite Beach or Cocoa Beach deal with salt spray, which can be harsh on certain metal meshes. Synthetic materials like polyester often perform better in these direct coastal environments.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lanai Screens

How long do lanai screens typically last in Florida?

In our experience across the Space Coast, most standard fiberglass screens last between 7 and 10 years. However, this lifespan can be cut short by heavy UV exposure, hurricane-force winds, or proximity to the salt air in Palm Shores. Premium polyester screens are a different story—they are warrantied for 10 years and can easily last 20+ years with proper care.

When should I rescreen versus fully replace my enclosure?

If your aluminum frame is sturdy, rust-free, and structurally sound, a simple rescreening is all you need. We recommend rescreening when you notice widespread sagging, brittleness (the screen "crunches" when touched), or multiple small tears. However, if the frame itself is oxidizing, leaning, or was not built to modern hurricane standards, a full replacement of the Lanai Screen Enclosure is the safer, long-term choice.

Are cheap imported screens worth the lower price?

We strongly advise against "Artisan Wire" or other cheap imported screens. While they might save you a few hundred dollars today, these products often lack the UV inhibitors necessary for the Florida sun. We've seen these screens become brittle and tear in as little as 3 to 4 years. Sticking with American-made brands like Phifer ensures your Lanai Screen Enclosure in Vero Beach stands up to our unique climate.

Conclusion

Selecting the right types of lanai screens is about more than just keeping bugs out; it’s about tailoring your outdoor space to your specific lifestyle. Whether you need the extreme durability of polyester for your pets, the heat-blocking power of solar mesh, or the bug-proof security of a no-see-um screen, there is a solution that fits your needs.

At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, we’ve spent over 30 years helping homeowners across Melbourne, Palm Bay, and the entire Space Coast create their dream outdoor retreats. As a family-owned business, we pride ourselves on quality craftsmanship and helping you choose the materials that will provide the best value for your home.

If you’re ready to upgrade your view and protect your home, we’re here to help. Explore our options for Screened Lanais and let us show you why we’ve been a trusted name in Florida screening for three decades. Contact us today for a consultation!