How long does fiberglass mesh screen last?

It's summer season once again, and with the rising temperatures comes a new flying nuisance that will invade your home and make your life difficult. Yes, you guessed right, mosquitoes can become a pain in the neck, particularly during the evening hours when they start swarming into your home through the windows and doors. With their continuous buzzing in your ears all through the night, mosquitoes can snatch the precious moments of your night's sleep and make your life a living hell. But don't worry; you can guard yourself and your family against this pest by installing mesh screens on windows and doors. Ordinary door and window nets tend to deteriorate quite quickly. Rather than wasting money in replacing them repeatedly, it is better to install long-lasting mesh screens. When it comes to quality and durability, fiberglass mesh screens are second to none, and you should definitely install them to keep all sorts of insects out.

What is fiberglass?

Fiberglass is a strengthened plastic material consisting of glass fibers. Fiberglass is corrosion-resistant, which means that most chemicals cannot erode or damage it. It is also lightweight and flexible. Due to its flexibility, fiberglass can be molded into unique shapes. It can even be woven like a piece of fabric as well as flattened into a sheet. This makes fiberglass a suitable material to be used in a variety of industries, like medical, automotive, and architecture. Some useful properties of fiberglass include:

Dimensional Stability: Fiberglass does not shrink or stretch after being exposed to freezing or sizzling temperatures

Water resistance: fiberglass does not absorb water, swell, or shrink when exposed to wet conditions. As a result, it is unaffected by heavy rainfall.

Fire-proof: Fiberglass is not a flammable material; hence, it does not carry the risk of catching fire. It is capable of withstanding temperatures of 540 °C and still retains 25% of its strength. 

How long does the fiberglass mesh screen last?

The longevity of a fiberglass mesh screen can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the screen, its exposure to environmental elements, and how well it is maintained. Here are some considerations regarding the lifespan of fiberglass mesh screens:

Quality of the Screen:

The durability and lifespan of a fiberglass mesh screen often depend on the quality of the materials used in its construction. High-quality screens with robust and UV-resistant fiberglass materials last longer than cheaper alternatives.

Exposure to weather:

Fiberglass mesh screens are commonly used in windows, doors, and outdoor enclosures. The amount of exposure to weather conditions, such as sunlight, rain, snow, and wind, can significantly affect their lifespan. Screens exposed to harsh sunlight for prolonged periods may deteriorate more quickly.

Maintenance:

Regular cleaning and maintenance can extend the life of a fiberglass mesh screen. Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on the screen, making it more susceptible to damage and reducing visibility. Cleaning the screen periodically and ensuring it is debris-free can help prolong its life.

Usage: 

The frequency of use can also impact a screen's lifespan. Screens in high-traffic areas or frequently opened and closed, such as sliding patio doors, may experience wear and tear more quickly than screens in less-used areas.

Insect Activity: 

If you live in an area with a high population of insects prone to damaging screens (e.g., moth beetles), your screen may wear out faster due to insect-related damage.

Installation Quality: 

Proper installation is crucial for the longevity of a fiberglass mesh screen. Screens not installed securely or with wrinkles, folds, or gaps may be more susceptible to damage.

Generally, fiberglass mesh screens can last 5 to 15 years or more under typical conditions. High-quality screens that are well-maintained and protected from harsh weather conditions tend to have a longer lifespan. If your screen shows signs of wear and tear, such as holes, tears, or fraying, it's a good idea to replace it to maintain the functionality and aesthetics of your windows or doors. Regular inspections and proactive maintenance can help you identify issues early and extend the life of your fiberglass mesh screens.

Manufacture of a Fiberglass Window Screen

For the purpose of creating a window screen, fiberglass is transformed into a single screen wire. The single fiber is then coated with vinyl, and the strands are weaved together horizontally and vertically to make a mesh screen. Whether you want a mesh screen with high light transmission and air ventilation for your room or something different, there are plenty of options to choose from depending on the diameter of the fiberglass strand and mesh size.

Why You Should Use Fiberglass Window Screens 

Before fiberglass window screens were invented, mesh screens used to be made with metal wires. These mesh nets tended to be quite brittle and broke easily if they were bent. Nowadays, fiberglass nets have replaced metal nets since they are tougher and more weather-resistant than metal nets. Let us take a closer look at fiberglass window screens and how they can be beneficial for your home.

Tough and Long-Lasting

Fiberglass nets can tolerate high temperatures and retain their stiffness, hardness, and strength. Moreover, fiberglass does not wrinkle and returns to its original shape even after being bent. Fiberglass mesh screens have high chemical resistance, which means that they will not rust like metal. Nor can they rot like cloth fibers, as they are not affected by mold or eaten by insects. Premium-quality fiberglass mesh screens are durable and have a useful life of 7 to 10 years. If they are given proper maintenance, then they can last even longer. Low-quality mesh screens typically last 3 to 5 years. 

Practical and Convenient

You can say goodbye to the problem of flies and mosquitoes, as a thinly woven mesh with fewer gaps between the fibers is excellent for keeping insects out. With mesh screens, your home will remain insect-free, whether it is day or night. In contrast to metal mesh, these window screens do not need to be repainted each year, which saves so much time and money. Another convenient thing about fiberglass window screens is that they have the ability to block UV rays. Not all fiberglass screens have this property. Only special fiberglass meshes built for the purpose of sun-blocking have this quality. Blocking harmful UV radiation helps protect your furniture and wall paint from becoming discolored by the sun's rays.

The installation of these mesh screens is also effortless and hassle-free. They are lightweight and easy to handle, so you don't have to stress too much during the installation process. 

Eco-Friendly

Fiberglass window screens have the amazing quality of shielding your home against hot and cold temperatures and keeping it at a constant temperature. This translates into a lower electricity bill since you will not be using a heater or air conditioner continuously to control the temperature. In addition to this, fiberglass mesh screens have a long usage life and do not need to be replaced frequently as compared to other window screen types. Consequently, there is less environmental pollution as fewer window screens are disposed of in landfills.

Visually Appealing

In comparison to other meshes, fiberglass mesh is available in multiple colors, which can be used to match the door and window frames, thus giving a stylish and aesthetic touch to your home. Also, unlike metal meshes that become bent and out of shape over time, these meshes retain their texture and shape during their service life and look as good as new for a longer period of time.

Multiple Options Available According to Needs

Fiberglass window screens cater to a wide variety of customer needs as they are available in a variety of options. You can choose a thick mesh that has wider fiberglass strands for better protection and tougher use. On the other end, you can also opt for extra-thin mesh if you live in an area that has small insects, such as sand flies, which can pass through ordinary mesh thickness.

Will the fiberglass screen rust?

The fiberglass screen does not rust. This is due to its material composition; fiberglass is made from fine fibers of glass, which are inherently resistant to rust and corrosion. Unlike metal screens, such as those made from aluminum or stainless steel, fiberglass does not contain metal elements that can oxidize and corrode over time. This quality makes fiberglass screens particularly suitable for a wide range of environments, including those with high humidity or exposure to saltwater, where metal screens might deteriorate more quickly due to rust. Fiberglass screens are favored in many residential and commercial applications because of their durability, resistance to environmental factors, and the fact that they remain free from rust and corrosion over their lifespan.

Is fiberglass mesh waterproof?

Fiberglass mesh itself is inherently water-resistant due to its material composition. Fiberglass, made from fine fibers of glass, does not absorb water, which makes it an ideal material for use in environments exposed to moisture. However, it's important to note that while the fiberglass mesh is water-resistant, it is not entirely waterproof in the sense of preventing water passage through it. When used in applications like window screens or as reinforcement in construction materials, fiberglass mesh can resist water damage and will not degrade when exposed to moisture, but it will not completely block the passage of water through its weave. This characteristic makes fiberglass mesh suitable for outdoor and marine environments where resistance to moisture and humidity is essential.

Is fiberglass repairable?

Fiberglass is repairable, and it is often considered one of the critical advantages of this material. Fiberglass repairs can be conducted on various products, from boats and cars to water tanks and roofing. The repair typically involves cleaning the damaged area, applying a new fiberglass mat or cloth saturated with a resin (usually polyester or epoxy), and then allowing it to cure and harden. This process effectively restores the structural integrity and shape of the fiberglass. The repaired area can then be sanded and refinished to match the surrounding material. The ease of repair is a significant reason why fiberglass is widely used in industries where durability and long-term maintenance are crucial. Notably, the success of a repair often depends on the extent of the damage and the skill of the person conducting the repair.

Conclusion:

Opting for fiberglass window screens for your home is a wise decision, as they are not only durable but also have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Choosing this material for your window screens can help shield your house from bothersome insects and the scorching sun. Act promptly to safeguard your home by selecting the best window screen material available.