Stylish Window Treatments Retractable Solar Screens

Various Advantages of Installing Retractable Screens

If your house has windows which are different from the conventional types, sometimes it becomes difficult to fix the normal screens on them. Also, when you fix the normal screens, you cannot open these windows fully whenever needed. In such a predicament the best option would be to install retractable screens, which can be pulled in to stop the bugs from coming in, but also retracted when it is pleasant and sunny outside. In this article we can discuss some of the trends available in the retractable screens.

The advantage of new models of retractable screens is that these are almost invisible.  They easily blend with the surroundings and do not affect the visibility of outside scenery.  This is due to their finer lines, discreet casings and slim frames.  The frames are available in wood grain finishes which perfectly blend and become invisible when mounted on the windows.

Modern retractable screens use the cutting edge technology.  These screens are made in such a way that they open and close very smoothly. The fittings on these screens control the movement of the screen in such a way that it does not slam close.

Another new trend is to mount special solar mesh on these screens.  This solar mesh provides very good Ultra Violet Ray protection for those inside.  Some of these solar meshes can block more than 85% UV radiation.  You can find mesh with different sizes of holes too. In case you want to stop even very small insects there are mesh with tiny holes available.

Various options available for customization are also an advantage with retractable screens these days.  You can tailor make these retractable screens to perfectly fit the window blinds or any opening of your house. Apart from customizing the size and design, you also have innumerable options on color of the framework, and select one which perfectly suits your interior decoration.  You can even get matching colors such as wood grains so that they become invisible when mounted on wooden finish windows or openings.

Retractable screens are also available in manual and motorized versions.  You can open and close these motorized screens using a remote control without going near them.

Made to fit Motorized Curtains

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Motorized Curtains

Let us talk about advantages first.  The main benefit of having a motorized curtain is the ease of use as it can be opened and closed automatically with the press of a button. This is especially a boon for aged, weak and disabled people who may not be able to physically pull and push the cords to move the curtains.  Also they can control the curtain using a remote control.  The motorized curtain contains an electric motor and hence they have a thicker drapery rod.  Motorized curtains usually come with a remote control using which you can adjust the curtains from any part of the room.

Another advantage of motorized curtains is that there is no need to go near them to operate.  This is especially good if you have windows which cannot be reached easily, due to their elevation or placement.  Motorized curtains are ideal for huge and also for extra wide windows, where curtains become too heavy and bulky making it difficult to move them physically. 

The mechanism of motorized curtains is simple.  In this, regular curtains are hung from attachments in a track. An electric motor moves the curtain along this track.  This electric motor is often run using a wall mounted switch or in modern versions using a handheld remote control.  Motorized curtains are available in different sizes, models and qualities and  the range of remote controls also vary.  Despite this, most of the remote controls can operate the curtains from any part of the room.

Motorized Curtains also have a few minor drawbacks.  Since they move on a fixed track, some feel that they do not have enough control on the lighting.  Motorization also involves some restrictions on free movement of curtains.  They are sometimes prone to mechanical breakdowns which may be bothersome. This is because they can get stuck on open or shut position.  Also motorized curtains cannot be opened or closed manually, in case of electricity problems. There are some who feel that installation of motor in the curtains can make them bulky and mar the interior decoration of the house.

Another disadvantage of motorized curtains is that they are comparatively expensive than traditional ones.  Also, in most cases, you need a professional to install them.  They feel that the traditional curtain rods look more elegant than the motorized ones.

Retractable Solar Screens for Windows

Various Advantages of Installing Solar Screens

As the name indicates, the Solar Screens are basically window shades which protect you from harsh sunlight.  These screens reflect back the sunlight falling on them and prevent it from coming inside the room.  For this reason, solar screens usually cover the whole window.  While giving you protection from sunrays and harmful UV radiation, these screens also help in saving energy for cooling the house.

Different types and sizes of retractable solar screens are available for normal windows. However, if you have a different requirement, solar screens can also be custom made.  You can also choose from different patterns and colors to suit your house décor.  Polymer screens and mesh types are also available.  You can also use these screens for covering your porches, patios and skylights.  Removable types of solar screens are also available, which can be mounted as per requirement.

The main benefit of solar screens is the protection it offers from sunlight and harmful UV radiations.  These screens also reduce glare inside the room and also safeguard your furniture from damage due to harsh sunrays.  It also prevents sunlight from fading the colors in your carpet.  You can get transparent solar shades which does not hinder the outside view.

Another advantage is that solar shades can considerably reduce your energy bills.  This is possible because they block the heat from coming inside by reflecting it back thus reducing the pressure on Air conditioner during summer.  This helps you to save up to 40% on energy cost. During winter too, the solar shades can save energy by preventing heat loss from inside.

During daytime, Solar screens can provide privacy by blocking the view from outside, while allowing you to see the outside view.  However, during night time you would need additional window coverings to ensure privacy inside the room.

You can also find Solar Screens which allow air movement while preventing harsh sunlight and insects from coming inside the room.  These types of Solar Screens are made using a small and tight mesh, which allows air circulation.  Solar screens are a good energy saving option as they are relatively less costly than other screens.  Some of them only cost about $2 per sq. feet.  You can also install solar screens which can be pulled down when needed. Motorized options with remote control are also available, though they may be slightly costlier.

Why Choose Motorized Retractable Screens

Tips to choose Retractable Screens for your home

Installing Retractable Screen is an ideal way to protect your house from insects and bugs.  The advantage of retractable screens is that they can be pulled in to close the window or door whenever needed and can unobtrusively retract into housing when it is not needed.  There are several types of doors and windows where normal screens cannot be used as they may block the movement.  In such windows and doors the convenient option would be to use retractable screens.

Depending on the size, space and usage, different types of retractable screens are available in the market.  Here, we will discuss about the common types available in the market to enable you to choose the right one for your purpose.

As the name indicates, the Flat mesh screens have a flat mesh and run on track system, which can be concealed inside the flooring. In the single panel model, one panel is pulled across the opening whereas in the double panel model two panels meet at the middle of the opening. Retractable panels with a pleated mesh are called Pleated screens.  Similar to the Flat Mesh Screens, these to run on retractable tracks and are available in one panel and two panel types. 

Another type of retractable screen, which has a several panels sliding on tracks, is called paneled screens. However, they are not very discreet and primarily meant for huge openings.  They are similar to sliding doors.

There are also screens available which can be completely removed. One such type is the Magnetic screen which is held to the opening using magnetic strips.  These can be fixed and peeled off according to your requirement.

You can also choose from different types of mesh for your retractable screens. This includes fine mesh to protect you from insects and mosquitoes and solar mesh which is meant for providing UV protection.  Pull down screens which are wind resistant are ideal for outdoor areas.

Motorized retractable screens, which can be pulled in and retracted at the touch of a button, are also available.  These are good for large openings. Also there is no need to go near the screen to operate it. However, you do not need much effort to open the manual ones as they too can be easily moved and you can also adjust the opening according to your need. Motorized screens are also more expensive than the manual ones.

It would be prudent to buy retractable screens from a reputed dealer, who can ensure quality and warranty  and also guide you to select one according to your need.