What are Solar Window Screens?
Solar window screens are manufactured from state-of-the-art material. Most of the time, this material consists of polyester, and sometimes this material is reinforced with a layer of PVC. In a nutshell, solar window screens are an extra layer of mesh installed over your existing window screens to block sunlight and reduce the glare, heat, and energy filtering in through your windows.
Solar window screens come in both light and dark fabrics, and each kind of fabric has its own benefits. Lighter screens are more effective at reflecting heat, and allow more visible light into the room. Darker screens provide excellent glare control.
Benefits of Solar Window Screens
Solar window screens block up to 90% of the sun’s heat and glare before it even reaches your home. This feature is especially beneficial in warm climates, as it will significantly decrease your energy bills by reducing your use of air conditioning. Additionally, solar window screens will add an extra layer of privacy. Just like a car’s tinted windows, solar window screens will block your home's interior from prying eyes.
Another benefit of solar window screens is that they are easily removed. This is particularly helpful during the fall and winter, when you might seek extra sunlight to heat your home.
How to Maintain Your Solar Window Screens
Being able to quickly install and remove your solar window screens also makes maintaining them much easier. Homeowners can clean their screens seasonally with soap and water. Additionally, many quality solar window screens are mildew and fade resistant.
Costs for Solar Window Screens
Solar window screens are generally affordable. For a DIY project, expect to pay at most $50 for a 35 x 70 inch window. If you’re getting a contractor to do the installation, expect to pay around $7.50 per square foot of screen.
Drawbacks for Solar Window Screens
Some homeowners dislike the aesthetic style of solar window screens, claiming their dark coloring looks too stark against the rest of their home’s colors. Also, while solar window screens provide increased privacy during the day, they often do not add privacy during night if you have lights on inside.
Solar Window Screens: A Solid Investment
If you’re a homeowner in consistently sunny and hot climates, solar window screens are a great investment for your home. Solar window screens are cheap, will protect you from harmful UV rays, and keep your house cool without the stress of air conditioning bills. While they may not be practical for climates receiving mild amounts of sunlight, for the sunny southern regions, they’re going to make a huge difference.
Check out HomeAdvancement's database to find a qualified contractor to install your solar window screens today.
