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Retractable screens are a great way to add protection to your deck, and a relaxing place to sit and enjoy the outdoors. But before you buy a screen, you need to make sure it meets certain requirements. Otherwise, you can end up spending a lot of money on something that may not work as you want it to.
What You Should Know Before You Purchase A Retractable Screen
Some of the questions you should ask yourself before buying a retractable screen are:
How Will the Screen Operate?
Ideally, you will not have the screen up all year long. To make it easy to control when the screen is down or up, it is important to look at the operating mechanism the screen uses. Some retractable screens move by crank, while others are pully chain operated. There are also mechanized screens that are controlled via remote like a garage door.
You need to first make sure that the screen is in fact a retractable model, then figure out how it retracts. Chain operated screens are both affordable and effective, while remote controlled screens are more pricey, yet easy for everyone to use.
Does It Provide the Right Amount of Shade?
Screens and awnings are not the same thing. Awnings simply cover the top to provide shade and prevent rain from getting in. But screens close in the area to prevent bugs and debris from getting in. You can also get screens with covers on them to create an awning-like feature.
This will provide you with more shade, and prevent rain from getting in and ruining your time outside. You can also get enclosed screens with the sides also covered like an awning. It really depends on how much shade and protection you want on your deck.
What are the fasteners used?
Retractable screen systems are not light in weight. Instead, you are looking at a minimum of 100 pounds, with some weighing 400 or more. It all depends on the size and materials it uses. For that reason, you really need to pay attention to the type of fasteners that are used to hold it all together.
You need a minimum of a 3/8-inch-wide lag screw shaft. The length of the screw also needs to be long enough to secure the mount through the material and into your home’s exterior. You can look online to see the exact specifications for the model you need.
Are there interchangeable components?
Retractable screens are designed to last for years. But depending on the weather where you live, certain parts may not last as long in poor conditions. This is why it is important to make sure there is the ability to change out the most susceptible parts. Make sure before buying anything that you can replace the screen if damaged, without changing the entire system.
Is the fabric completely one material?
Acrylic is by far the most recommended fabric for outside use. This is because it will not fade, rot, or mildew when exposed to the elements. The material is also more durable and easier to clean. Make sure to check whether it is acrylic and if that is 100% acrylic material.
Where was the screen assembled?
You ideally want to avoid anything made in China because of the lower quality of materials and labor. While you will most likely save money in the upfront cost, you will pay more in repairs and replacements in the long run. Stick to the country you live in if you can when it comes to assembly and material sourcing. This will reduce the chance of damage due to transportation and sweatshop use.
Who are you buying from?
It isn’t just the materials and assembly you need to look at. You should also consider the company itself you are buying from. Are you buying directly from the manufacturer, or from a third-party seller? This is important because it can impact the sale price, the warranty, and the ability to get it installed properly. A retractable screen is a significant investment and a brand like Go Retractable can certainly deliver
Warranties from manufacturers can sometimes be a lifetime long. Whereas from third party stores, you are subject to whatever amount of time they offer for returns. For example, if you ordered from a store like Amazon, you would have thirty days warranty. But there would be no repairs or replacements available after that first month. Whenever you can, buy directly from the manufacturer to get the best chance at help if anything goes wrong in the future.
Who does the installation?
Retractable screens should always be installed by an experienced professional. The store you buy the screen from may offer their services in installation, or you may need to source your own help. Either way, you want to make sure the person is a licensed contractor with experience with this type of work. They will also be able to measure the area to make sure you get the right size screen.
Professionals also offer warranties on their work, giving you a guarantee to fix it if they do something wrong. Even with a lifetime guarantee, you have to start out with the proper installation to see the best results in the long run.
How do the reviews look?
After you look through everything else and make sure you are getting what you want, you should always look at the reviews. Pay attention to reputable sites like the Better Business Bureau, Yelp and Angie’s List, and well as any site the store or company may have. If you see a lot of negative reviews, you should consider a different option.
Conclusion
Don’t be fooled by cheap prices or flashy accessories. Make sure you get exactly what you want and need by asking the right questions and doing your research. The more you know, the better your chances of success.
