Choosing The Best Flyscreens

According to a report by the Western Australia Department of Agriculture and Food, the peak season for bush flies, a particularly pestering insect that spreads infections, is October. They also appear in large numbers in the spring and summer. The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIRO) recommends keeping insect screens in good condition as the best practice in keeping such insects from infesting dried food at home.

Virtually all fly screens are made of mesh, but the type varies. There's heavy duty mesh, reinforced with aluminum for extra tensile strength, there's pet friendly mesh made out of polyester or fiberglass and standard mesh made out of stainless steel. In some cases, it would be an unfair comparison when trying to liken pet friendly mesh to the heavy duty one. Either way, each of these has their own advantages and weaknesses, leaving the choice to the buyer. If you had your fly screen installed before, it is advisable to get it in shape before the 'insect invasion', or if you are planning to get one, here is a guide on the different materials available:

Stainless Steel

Advantages

Water does not stain it.

It does not rust easily in normal weather conditions.

It is resistant to corrosion, even by acids or bases.

It is inexpensive.

Galvanized steel is especially durable.

Weaknesses

Under highly saline environments like near salty seas, it will rust because the salt speeds up this process.

It will stain if it is neglected.

It is necessary to clean the steel before installation, and make sure it is of standard quality so that your fly screen lasts for as long as possible. Once installed, it can be washed with a glass cleaner.

Fiber Glass

Advantages

It is resistant to clawing by pets.

It can be cleaned using soap and water.

Polyester

Advantages

Vinyl coated polyester is water resistant.

It is best for light duty purposes.

It is Inexpensive.

It is recyclable.

Mildew does not grow on it.

Disadvantages

Once it stains, the spots are quite difficult to clean and may remain permanently.

Aluminum

It is of light density, lighter than steel.

It is relatively inexpensive.

It is corrosion resistant.

Disadvantages

It is less durable than steel because of its lightness.

After a critical look at the different types of material, it is necessary to also look at style. You could have retractable screens, which can be rolled out of sight, you could get a few that are fit onto hinged or sliding doors, or those that cover the doors like a curtain does. This retractability could make them last longer as they are not always exposed, lest it's insect season. Another interesting alternative is the magnetic screen, which firmly attaches itself to a magnetic frame on the door or window. Detaching them is quick, easy and very safe.

Most importantly, before you select your insect screen, make sure you get a good supplier with a proven track record and excellent customer review. Ask around from other people whose screens look like they were done by a serious craftsman if you can't seem to find one.


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Andrew fixes additional home fixtures like insect screens. His business is at its peak around October when hundreds of Australians need screens fitted into their homes. He only gets his screens from EHI Australia, who supply only top caliber products, specifically made to last. Visit our website at http://www.ehiaustralia.com.au/flyscreens for more details.