Making Your Home Secure and Energy Efficient with Solar Screens
Solar screens can provide numerous benefits for homeowners by blocking heat and glare while also improving security. Installing solar screens is an investment that can pay off over time through energy savings and increased comfort within the home. By keeping outside temperatures out, solar screens allow you to rely less on air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter. They also offer protection from the sun's UV rays that can fade furniture and flooring. Beyond energy efficiency, solar screens fortify existing windows and doors to deter potential intruders. In this guide, we'll explore how solar screens work and the many advantages of incorporating them into your home's design and function.
What Are Solar Screens?
Solar screens, also called sun screening or solar shade screens, are custom-fitted screens that mount on the exterior of windows and doors. Made from durable, weather-resistant materials like aluminum, steel, or bronze, solar screens come in a variety of weave patterns designed to block ambient heat while still allowing natural light in. The finer the weave, the more light is filtered through but the better the screens are at keeping temperatures balanced inside. Solar screens are screened securely in place using frames that match the window trim for an integrated appearance.
Solar screens operate on a simple principle - they use strategically placed obstructions to prevent direct sunlight from entering the home while still permitting filtered light and air flow. By blocking up to 98% of radiant heat from solar rays, solar screens insulate interior spaces and reduce indoor-outdoor temperature differential, lowering cooling and heating bills as a result. The screens themselves absorb very little heat, reflecting and dispersing solar gain externally instead of allowing it inside to raise interior temperatures.
Benefits of Solar Screens
Energy Savings
Preventing direct sunlight from entering living spaces and trapping heat inside is the biggest energy-saving perk of solar screens. On sunny summer days, they can lower indoor temperatures by as much as 25°F compared to unprotected windows. This results in less need for air conditioning to cool the home, lowering energy bills significantly over time. During winter months, solar screens help retain indoor warmth by blocking cold drafts. Heating costs are reduced thanks to fewer temperature fluctuations.
Improved Comfort
With solar screens keeping interior spaces at a more consistent temperature year-round, occupants feel more comfortable without being too hot or too cold. Solar glare and excessive brightness are diminished, reducing eye strain and fatigue. Screened windows also block 99% of UV rays that can damage furnishings over prolonged sun exposure. This creates a more pleasant indoor environment for living and entertaining.
Enhanced Security
The physical barrier of solar screening reinforces existing windows and doors, making them more resistant to break-ins. Opening windows no longer leave the home vulnerable the way unprotected ones do. Installing security screens is a visible deterrent for potential intruders seeking easy targets. They also serve as a line of defense should the intrusion attempt occur despite precautions taken.
Custom Aesthetics
Solar screens integrate seamlessly into any architectural style when installed by trained professionals. Frame finishes come in numerous paint colors and anodized textures to complement the exterior design. Weave patterns vary from open to closed for optimizing sunlight filtering based on specific window exposures and uses. Solar screens maintain curb appeal and enhance exterior façades while delivering functional performance.
Healthier, More durable home
By blocking nearly all UV rays from entering, solar screens protect UV-sensitive flooring, fabrics, electronics and art from fading or damage over time. Wood floors and furniture, area rugs, and electronics enjoy extended lifespans indoors. Reduced indoor/outdoor temperature swings and drafts also mean less structural shifting that can cause cracks or leaks in walls and foundations. With solar screens installed, the entire home ages more gracefully.
Environmental Benefits
Solar screens help homeowners "go green" by reducing overall energy usage. Less strain is placed on power grids and fewer emissions are generated by lessening reliance on air conditioning and heating. Window treatments also diminish solar gain, decreasing the urban heat-island effect in communities. And by shielding interior spaces naturally with strategically placed obstructions instead of tinted glass or thick curtains, the flow of fresh air and daylight can still be balanced year-round.
How to Choose the Right Solar Screens
When selecting solar screens, consider several key factors unique to your home and climate needs:
Window Orientation - South-, west- and east-facing windows receive the most direct sunlight and require denser screening. Lighter weave options may suffice for north-facing windows.
Screen Opacity - Finer weaves (18% openness or less) block more heat but filter less light. Heavier weaves (25–47% open) prioritize light transmission over heat blocking. Balance needs appropriately.
Frame Finish - Opt for frame colors matching window trim for a seamless look. Also consider frame durability relative to your climate and UV exposure. Consult with solar screen professionals regarding the best window frame material for your conditions.
Budget - Aluminum and steel frames provide strength at mid-range costs. Bronze is durable but pricier. Consider only screening the most problematic windows/doors for energy savings if budget is a concern.
Aesthetic Preferences - Weave patterns include standard, staggered and diamond configurations with varying visual impacts. Work with an expert to select options enhancing rather than competing with your home's architectural style.
Property Setbacks - Ensure adequate overhangs, landscaping or structure placement allows for unobstructed solar screening without shadowing other areas once installed. Consult local building codes as needed.
Custom Fit - Accurately measured and factory-fitted screens conform securely to window dimensions for optimum light regulation and security. DIY screen-cutting or ill-fitting screens compromise performance.
Professional Installation
For optimal function, security and aesthetic integration, hire an experienced solar screen installation company. Professionals have the tools, expertise and safety equipment to properly measure, customize, frame and securely fasten screens according to manufacturer specifications. DIY attempts often result in poorly fitted screens that don't withstand regular use and weathering, potentially voiding any product warranty as well. Professional installers also ensure screens comply with local building codes for inspection approvals and safety compliance if later modifications are made. The upfront investment in expert installation pays off through long-lasting performance and energy savings.
Cost Considerations
Average prices for solar screen installations range from $150–$350 per window depending on material choices, weave density, frame finish, hardware and window size. Larger multi-paned windows or complicated custom fitting may cost more. Some builders, solar companies and window replacement contractors now include basic screen packages or options as part of bundled service pricing as well.
Grants or tax incentives may offset installation expenses. Check with local utilities, state energy offices and federal programs (like the Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit) for any available rebates when improving overall home performance. Over time, energy cost reductions from properly installed and maintained solar screens often recoup their installation cost. Quality products withstand weathering for 10+ years, with routine cleaning extending their lifespan further.
Maintenance and Care
Regularly removing dust and debris from inaccessible screen areas with a soft brush or compressed air prevents clogs that diminish performance. Hosing off screens from the exterior 1-2 times per year using a low-pressure setting also restores proper ventilation. For especially dirty or mildew-prone areas, a mild soap-and-water solution can safely be used on aluminum or steel frames with thorough rinsing. Inspect screens annually for loose or damaged hardware, and repair or replace components as needed to maintain security and optimal function.
Creating a More Comfortable, Efficient Home
Investing in solar screening provides multiple long-term benefits that improve livability and save money year-round. By blocking ambient heat during summer months and retaining warmth in winter, solar screens stabilize interior temperatures to lessen energy costs significantly. The sun's harsh glare and UV damage are diminished indoors as well for enhanced comfort and home durability. And fortifying existing windows with security screens deters potential intrusions.
With options for various budget levels and a range of customization capabilities, solar screening accommodates any architectural style. From framework finish choices to weave density selections tailored to window exposures, professionals help seamlessly integrate form and function. Protecting your home's interior environment while lowering bills aligns solar screen technology perfectly with sustainable living priorities. Consider contacting local solar companies to discuss a custom screening package and start enjoying all the advantages solar screens provide.
