Vinyl-coated fiberglass window screens
Vinyl-coated fiberglass, the most popular screen fabric material in use, doesn't corrode, rust or stain but it will
stretch and tears more easily than aluminum. "The manufacturer starts with raw spun-glass filament and apply a vinyl (PVC)
coating, producing remarkably strong single strands that are typically .011 mil for window screening or .013 mil for pool
enclosures, patio rooms and some door screening."
In addition to the conventional 18 x 16 mesh, you can buy 18 x 14 for pool enclosures, porches
and the like--these generally utilize slightly larger strands. You can even buy 20 x 20 mesh, a very tight weave that stops
tiny insects such as no-see-ums. "It cuts down on light transmission and breezes.
Solar or "sun" screen is also made from vinyl-coated fiberglass. Used for both window and door screening
and patio, porch and pool enclosures, this tightly-woven material dramatically can be a real energy saver. "
The shading effect is about 70% but it also blocks heat gain. It's a way of reducing your air conditioning
load and a way to keep furniture and carpeting from fading. In return, you give up about 30% of the light." The newest type
offers a whopping 90% shading.
During the daytime, solar screen appears almost opaque from outside but offers good visibility from
inside.
Fiberglass screening is available in the same sizes as aluminum, and up to 84 inches wide.
