Common Types of Screens for Porches and How to Choose One

When comparing the different types of screens for porches, it can be hard to tell which is the best for your needs. Fiberglass, the most common type of material, and aluminum are the most affordable, but a metal screen could be a better fit for your needs. Get the rundown on the screen materials you can choose from and the pros and cons for each. 

1. Fiberglass

Fiberglass screens are the most popular screen porch options for homeowners to keep little buggers out. They come in various colors and won’t rust, corrode, or crease easily. It’s also available in extra-fine mesh, also known as the no-see-um material, which prevents smaller bugs from getting in than their standard counterparts. 

Since it doesn’t easily dent or crease, they’re great if you are DIYing screen installation to save money on labor fees when hiring a local sunroom contractor to build your porch. Plus, if you’re looking for a screen that won’t dent your wallet, they’re also a budget-friendly option. However, fiberglass porch screens are vulnerable to sharp objects (like claws) and can easily rip and tear. Homeowners typically spend $0.15 per square foot on fiberglass screens.

Best for:

• Homes in moderate climates

• Protecting against insects

• Homeowners looking for a low-maintenance option

2. Vinyl-Coated Polyester

If you’re looking for an option that’s a little more pet-resistant and can hold its own against direct sunlight, then polyester screens are always an option. These screens are vinyl-coated, meaning they have a protective coating that makes them more resilient to insects, debris, dust, tears, and moisture. They’re also resistant to rust and corrosion but are more pricey than fiberglass, averaging around $0.55 per square foot.  

Best for:

• Homeowners with pets

• Homes in hot climates

• Maintaining privacy

3. Aluminum

If you’re looking for a type of screen for porches with noteworthy visibility and can withstand high winds, you might be interested in aluminum. These porch screens are durable and aren’t prone to sagging which can increase their lifespan. They can rust and corrode if not properly coated and dent if hit by a heavy object. Aluminum screened-in porches cost $0.27 per square foot. 

Best for:

• Homes in windy climates

• Areas where fire safety is a concern

• Homeowners looking for minimal upkeep.

4. Solar

Solar screens might suit you if you want to build your screened porch somewhere exposed to direct sunlight. They’re made from fiberglass or polyester screens and are champs at blocking sunlight and reducing the heat and glare that comes with it. They typically use dark mesh to block UV rays, making them effective privacy screens. A screen that keeps the bugs, lookers, and sun out? Yes, please. Solar screens cost $2 to $8 per square foot. If you’re interested in the pros of solar screens but not the price, there are some ways you can winterize your screened-in porch that give you similar results for less.

Best for:

• Homes in hot and humid climates

• Homeowners looking for increased privacy

• Energy-efficient homes

5. High-end Metals

High-end metals such as brass, copper, bronze, and stainless steel screens are great if you want your screen to fit your home’s aesthetic. With their vibrant color, they can boost your curb appeal, hold their own when placed under tension, don’t wear away from friction, and are long-lasting. If curb appeal is important to you, tons of screened-in porch ideas (or sunroom ideas if you’re looking for something more extravagant) can make your enclosed space shine. 

You can expect to pay between $0.85 to $6.50 per square foot depending on the type of metal used. Bronze and stainless are on the lower end of the price spectrum ranging between $0.85 and $1 per square foot while brass and copper range between $6 and $6.50 per square foot.

Best for:

• Homes in coastal areas or hot climates

• Homeowners seeking aesthetic appeal

• Maintaining longevity

How to Choose a Porch Screen Material

Choosing the best porch screen material is a personal decision based on your specific needs and uses. If durability is a primary consideration, materials like vinyl-coated polyester and high-end metals offer superior strength and resistance to wear. These types of screens for porches are ideal if you have pets or kids and reduce how often you'll need to rescreen your porch.

Corrosion resistance is crucial if you live in coastal or humid environments, making aluminum and stainless steel excellent choices due to their natural resistance to rust. If you live in a hot climate, solar screens provide the best defense against UV rays and heat to enhance comfort and energy efficiency.

Aesthetic appeal and maintenance requirements are also important factors. High-end metals add a touch of elegance and require minimal upkeep. Fiberglass offers good visibility and is a cost-effective option. Privacy needs can influence the choice as well, with solar screens offering enhanced daytime privacy.