Aluminium Fly Screen Vs Fiberglass Fly Screen
When it comes to keeping your home protected from unwanted pests while still enjoying fresh air, fly screens are a reliable and practical solution. They serve as an effective barrier against flies, mosquitoes, and other airborne insects—making indoor spaces more comfortable and hygienic.
However, choosing the right fly screen involves more than just selecting a frame; the screen material plays a crucial role in performance, durability, and aesthetics. Two of the most popular materials on the market are aluminium and fiberglass.
Both options offer distinct advantages, but understanding their differences is key to selecting the best fit for your home and environment. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key features, pros, and cons of aluminium vs. fiberglass fly screens, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and application.
Fiberglass Fly Screen
Fiberglass is considered the gold standard for fly screens and is arguably the most widely used material globally. Made from vinyl-coated fiberglass threads, it is known for its flexibility, affordability, and ease of installation. While slightly opaque, it still offers good outward visibility and won’t crease or dent like metal alternatives.
In addition to its flexibility, fiberglass screens provide up to 75% UV protection, helping to reduce sun glare and interior fading.
Fiberglass fly screens are available in three main grades:
Fine grade – Ideal for coastal or insect-prone areas, offering tighter mesh for superior insect protection.
Heavy-duty grade – Designed to withstand strong winds and harsh weather, making it a good choice for exposed outdoor areas.
Standard grade – The most commonly used and cost-effective option, suitable for everyday residential use.
Pros of Fiberglass Fly Screens:
Budget-friendly and widely accessible
Offered in a variety of grades and colors to suit different applications
Resilient to impact—doesn’t dent, making it ideal for homes with pets or children
Cons of Fiberglass Fly Screens:
Less durable than metal options; prone to tearing or fraying over time
Can fade with prolonged UV exposure
The darker mesh may slightly reduce natural light entering the room
Fiberglass fly screens are a great all-round option for homeowners seeking an affordable, versatile solution. However, for long-term durability or harsh environments, it may be worth considering alternatives like aluminium.
Aluminium Fly Screen
Aluminium is widely regarded as one of the highest-quality materials available for window and door screens. Known for its exceptional strength and durability, aluminium fly screens are built to last and perform well in a variety of environmental conditions.
Available in a limited but functional range of colors—typically dark grey, black, and bright aluminium—these screens are suitable for both window and door applications. Thanks to a protective coating, aluminium screens offer excellent resistance to abrasion, corrosion, rust, and UV damage, making them ideal for long-term outdoor use.
Despite being incredibly lightweight, aluminium screens are extremely sturdy and, with proper care, can easily last for many years. They can also be painted to match your aesthetic preferences and are available in various textures and patterns for a more customized look.
Pros of Aluminium Fly Screens:
Highly durable and long-lasting
Weather-resistant and suitable for all climates
Low maintenance and easy to clean
Can be painted and comes in different textures for design flexibility
Cons of Aluminium Fly Screens:
Can crease or dent easily, and such damage is often permanent
More expensive than fiberglass options
Limited color choices compared to other materials
Aluminium fly screens are an excellent choice for homeowners prioritizing longevity, strength, and weather resistance. While they come at a higher upfront cost, their durability and low maintenance needs make them a worthwhile investment for long-term performance.
Aluminium vs. Fiberglass Fly Screens: What’s the Difference?
When choosing the right fly screen for your home, two of the most common materials are aluminium and fiberglass. While both serve the purpose of keeping insects out while letting fresh air in, each has unique features that make it better suited for certain environments and preferences. Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide:
1. Durability
Aluminium Fly Screens
Known for their exceptional durability
Withstand harsh weather conditions and high humidity
Corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for coastal areas
Less likely to tear, warp, or break, offering long-term performance
Fiberglass Fly Screens
Highly flexible and impact-resistant
Though not as strong as aluminium, they offer good durability under moderate conditions
Less prone to denting or creasing, but more susceptible to tearing or fraying over time
2. Visibility
Fiberglass Fly Screens
Made from fine mesh, offering superior visibility
Allow more natural light to pass through
A great choice for preserving views and maintaining aesthetics
Aluminium Fly Screens
Feature a thicker mesh due to the rigidity of the material
Still provide good visibility, but the mesh pattern may be more noticeable, slightly impacting the view
3. Maintenance
Both aluminium and fiberglass screens are low-maintenance and easy to clean:
Use mild soap and water to remove dust and debris
For aluminium screens, occasional lubrication of frames may be needed to maintain smooth operation
Fiberglass screens typically require no special upkeep beyond regular cleaning
4. Installation & Customization
Fiberglass Fly Screens
Lightweight and highly flexible, making them ideal for DIY projects
Easier to handle and install, even on irregular or custom-shaped frames
Aluminium Fly Screens
Rigid and sturdy, which can make installation a bit more challenging
Typically recommended for professional installation for the best fit and finish
Can be painted and customized with various textures and patterns
Choose aluminium fly screens if you need maximum durability, especially in coastal or high-traffic areas where screen damage is more likely.
Choose fiberglass if you prioritize visibility, ease of installation, and affordability, particularly for standard residential use.
Both materials have their strengths—selecting the right one depends on your environment, budget, and aesthetic preferences.
Conclusion
Both aluminium and fiberglass fly screens offer distinct advantages, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and environment.
Aluminium screens are ideal for those seeking maximum durability, corrosion resistance, and long-term performance—especially in areas exposed to harsh weather or high humidity. Their strength and resilience make them a great investment for lasting protection.
Fiberglass screens, by contrast, offer excellent flexibility, superior visibility, and easy installation. They’re a more budget-friendly option and are especially well-suited for DIY projects or homes in milder climates.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your priorities—durability vs. affordability, ease of installation vs. long-term strength. For the best results, consider speaking with a professional to help assess your space, climate, and usage needs, ensuring you select the most effective and practical screen for your home.