If you've ever tried to enjoy your patio, pool, or backyard during a Florida summer, you've probably dealt with mosquitoes, no-see-ums, flies, lovebugs, and other pests.
That's one of the biggest reasons homeowners invest in screen enclosures.
A properly designed screen enclosure can dramatically reduce insect activity while allowing you to enjoy fresh air, natural light, and outdoor living without constantly reaching for bug spray.
However, not all screen mesh is created equal. The type of screen you choose plays a major role in how effective your enclosure will be at keeping bugs out.
Yes, screen enclosures are highly effective at reducing the number of insects that enter your outdoor living space.
By creating a physical barrier around your patio, pool, lanai, or porch, screen enclosures help block many of the most common pests found throughout Florida.
A properly installed enclosure can help reduce:
While no screen enclosure can completely eliminate every insect, the right screen mesh and professional installation can make a significant difference in your overall comfort.
Florida's climate allows homeowners to spend time outdoors nearly year-round.
Unfortunately, insects can quickly turn a relaxing evening into an uncomfortable experience. A screen enclosure allows you to enjoy outdoor meals, family gatherings, pool time, and relaxation without constantly dealing with pests.
Mosquitoes are one of the most common complaints among Florida homeowners.
Standing water, humidity, and warm temperatures create ideal breeding conditions. While screen enclosures don't eliminate mosquitoes entirely, they help create a protected area where mosquito activity is significantly reduced.
In addition to blocking insects, screen enclosures help reduce:
Many pool owners appreciate spending less time cleaning and more time enjoying their outdoor space.
Depending on the screen material selected, homeowners can also reduce glare, improve privacy, and filter some of the sun's heat while maintaining airflow.
18x14 mesh is one of the most common screen materials used in Florida screen enclosures.
This screen provides:
For many homeowners, 18x14 mesh offers an ideal balance between comfort and insect control.
It works particularly well for:
For homeowners who deal with tiny insects, 20x20 screen mesh is often the preferred option.
Sometimes called "no-see-um screen," this tighter weave helps block:
This screen is especially popular in:
While airflow is slightly reduced compared to 18x14 mesh, many homeowners find the added protection well worth it.
Homes with dogs, cats, or active families may benefit from pet-resistant screen mesh.
This heavier-duty material is designed to better withstand:
It provides the same insect protection while offering greater durability.
Solar screens offer multiple benefits beyond bug control.
These screens can help:
For homeowners with patios exposed to strong afternoon sun, solar screens can make a noticeable difference.
The best screen depends on your property, location, and lifestyle.
At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, our recommendations typically include:
A consultation can help determine which option is best for your specific needs.
One of the most common misconceptions we hear is that all screen mesh performs the same.
In reality, choosing the right screen material can significantly impact how comfortable your outdoor space feels throughout the year.
For homeowners located near the coast or waterways, upgrading to no-see-um screen is often one of the most appreciated improvements we install. Many customers immediately notice fewer biting insects and a more enjoyable outdoor experience.
We also remind homeowners that even the best screen mesh won't perform properly if gaps develop around doors, damaged panels, or loose fasteners. Regular inspections and maintenance are important for keeping your enclosure functioning as intended.
We install and repair screen enclosures for homeowners throughout:
Whether you're building a new enclosure or replacing existing screens, selecting the right mesh can make a substantial difference in comfort and usability.
Both 18x14 and 20x20 mesh provide excellent mosquito protection. However, 20x20 mesh also helps block smaller insects that may pass through standard screens.
Yes, slightly. Because the openings are smaller, airflow is somewhat reduced compared to standard mesh. Most homeowners find the difference minimal.
For homeowners who experience no-see-ums, gnats, or biting midges, the additional protection often makes it a worthwhile investment.
Yes. Torn screens, damaged doors, loose seals, and installation gaps can create entry points for insects. Routine inspections help identify these issues early.
18x14 mesh has larger openings and greater airflow. 20x20 mesh has smaller openings that provide better protection against tiny insects.
For properties near rivers, marshes, canals, lakes, and coastal areas, 20x20 no-see-um mesh is typically the preferred choice because it provides superior protection against small biting insects.
"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.
