Solar Screens or Sunscreens in Auburn CA

SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR HOME AND BUSINESS

Solar screens, also known as sunscreens, are retractable screens that are installed on the exterior of windows to help block solar heat gain and UV rays while still allowing natural light inside. As a growing number of homeowners in Auburn CA look for eco-friendly solutions to reduce energy bills and keep interior spaces cool, solar screens have become increasingly popular.

Solar screens work by creating a barrier between the sun's rays and the glass of the windows. This barrier helps prevent solar radiation from entering the home and warming up indoor areas. By keeping heat out, homeowners can reduce or eliminate the need for air conditioning on hot sunny days. This results in lower energy consumption and utility costs.

Some key benefits of installing solar screens in Auburn include:

Energy savings - Solar screens can reduce indoor air conditioning needs by up to 40%, lowering summer cooling bills.

Glare and UV protection - The screens block up to 97% of UV light to prevent fading of furnishings. They also minimize external glare on TV/computer screens.

Increased privacy - The semi-opaque screens provide a level of privacy by blocking views in and out of the home without completely blocking natural light.

Noise reduction - Solar screens may reduce external noise levels entering the house by around 15-30 decibels depending on the screen material used.

Additional security - The screens provide an extra layer of security compared to ordinary window screens by making it difficult for anyone to see inside the home from the outside.

Privacy Screens Auburn

Privacy screens are similar to solar screens in that they are installed on the exterior of windows. However, their main purpose is to provide visual screening rather than thermal insulation. Privacy screens allow natural light inside while obscuring views in and out for an enhanced level of privacy.

Popular areas to install privacy screens in Auburn homes include windows near entrances, in bathrooms/dressing areas, and on ground floor or lower level windows for added security. Compared to permanently closing blinds/curtains, privacy screens allow light in while maintaining privacy on demand.

Some leading advantages of having professionally installed privacy screens in Auburn include:

Enhanced security - They deter intruders from seeing valuables inside the home while still allowing natural surveillance.

Visual privacy - Prevents unwanted views from neighbors, passerby, or outdoor areas while admitting light.

Acoustic privacy - Screens may improve sound insulation between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Aesthetic appeal - Frameless screen options integrate seamlessly with window designs for an elegant appearance.

Low maintenance - High-quality screens need little cleaning and won't fade or deteriorate as fast as curtains/blinds.

How Do Solar Screens and Privacy Screens Work?

Both solar screens and privacy screens operate via a retractable roller mechanism installed above or beside windows. The screen material is made of tightly woven, breathable fabric that rolls up for convenient access. Most screens are motorized for easy opening and closing with a remote.

For solar screens specifically, the screen fabric allows light and air to pass through while blocking infrared and UV rays. Common materials include shading fabrics made of hollow acrylic, polyester, fiberglass or aluminum. They have a thread count of 130-200 and are tightly woven to optimize shading effect.

Privacy screen fabrics are also tightly woven but have a higher thread count of 200-270 for enhanced opacity. Popular materials include polyester, vinyl, aluminum or fiberglass. The higher thread count blocks views in both directions for maximum privacy while still transmitting some diffused natural light.

Properly installed by experienced contractors, solar and privacy screens operate smoothly and last many years with minimal maintenance or repairs required. Homeowners can expect hassle-free performance with automatic or remote-controlled opening and closing functions.

How Much Do Solar Screens and Privacy Screens Cost?

The average cost of installing solar screens or privacy screens in Auburn CA can range quite widely depending on various factors like:

Screen size - Larger windows will cost more to screen than smaller ones. Expect to pay around $15-25 per square foot on average.

Window configuration - Multiple windows may drive costs up further than single windows.

Materials used - Fiberglass or aluminum are more expensive but also more durable than vinyl or acrylic options.

Automation - Motorized screens controlled by remote add $200-500 per window on average. Manual screens are more affordable.

Labor - Professional installation typically ranges from $75-150 per window depending on accessibility and complexity.

For a average single solar/privacy screen installation on a standard size double hung window, homeowners can expect to pay roughly $300-600 in total for a manually operated screen. Motorized screens would be closer to $500-1000 per window.

Multi-window jobs for whole homes usually qualify for quantity discounts. Overall install costs for complete solar screening of a typical 2000 sq ft home would range between $3000-8000 depending on the above factors. Ongoing annual maintenance is minimal at around $50-150.

Solar Screens Installation Auburn CA

When getting solar screens installed by a professional contractor in Auburn, the process typically involves the following steps:

Free In-Home Consultation - Measure all windows, discuss material/control options, get a written estimate.

Material Order and Preparation - Order screen fabric and hardware customized to each window.

Removal of Existing Screens - Carefully detach & dispose of prior window fixtures.

Frame Installation - Mount robust aluminum frames and roller mechanism above or beside each window.

Screen Material Installation - Mount screen fabric panels onto the roller frame using qualified hardware.

Automation & Electrical (if needed) - Hardwire motorized controls to power source and test operation.

Trim & Caulk - Apply decorative trim and seal perimeter to prevent air/water infiltration.

Inspection - Double check accurate installation, fit, operation and make any final adjustments.

Education - Train homeowners on operating, cleaning and maintaining their new screens properly.

Many local Auburn companies like Screen & Shade Solutions complete high-quality screen installations within 1-3 business days depending on the project scale. Minimal disruption and mess is ensured throughout the process.

Solar Screens Cleaning Service Auburn CA

To keep solar screens in Auburn operating smoothly and maximizing solar protection over the years, periodic professional cleaning is recommended at least twice a year - in the spring and fall. This maintained their dirt- and dust-repelling performance.

A quality solar screen cleaning involves the following:

  • Removal of screens from the installed frames and soaker systems without damage.
  • Vacuuming or brushing off built-up surface dirt and debris in a workshop.
  • Mild detergent wash using a soft brush or cloth in sections to avoid over-wetting the fabric.
  • Thorough multiple rinses to eliminate all soap residues which cause future residue buildup.
  • Drying either by air-drying or with microfiber cloths to avoid water spots and stains setting in.
  • Light lubrication of moving parts like roller mechanisms with a dedicated dry lubricant spray.
  • Refitting of clean screens back into the frames and testing function before closing up.

Expect to pay $75-150 on average for professional cleaning of 5-10 solar screens depending on their size. This protects your initial investment while ensuring maximum solar control is restored.

Choosing the Right Contractor/Company for Your Auburn Sunscreen or Solar Screen & Privacy Screen Installation

When choosing a solar/privacy screen installation company in Auburn, it's important to vet several qualified options to ensure you hire the best suited contractor. Here are some key things to check:

Accreditations & Licensing - Confirm they carry proper state certification and liability insurance.

Experience - Look for 5+ years in the industry with many positive client testimonials.

Warranties - Trustworthy companies stand behind their work with multi-year labor and product guarantees.

Equipment - They use industry-standard tools, vehicles and machinery to perform high-quality installations.

Crew - Hire experienced, courteous installation teams who clean-up thoroughly after work.

Support - Reputable outfits provide ongoing annual maintenance plans and prompt service support.

Reviews - Check endorsement websites like Angie's List and social media for real client feedback.

Estimates - Compare detailed written estimates from at least 3 contractors for an accurate price assessment.

Following this vetting process gives homeowners peace of mind their project will be completed professionally by a credible local company.

Why Choose Screen & Shade Solutions

Screen & Shade Solutions is known as one of the most trusted solar screen installation experts serving homeowners around Auburn, CA. As a licensed and insured partner of industry-leading manufacturers like Titan and R Lang, they offer the following advantages:

  • Over years in the industry with impeccable credentials and certifications.
  • Widely recommended with 500+ 5-star reviews for professionalism and attention to detail.
  • Manufacturer-direct access to the highest quality solar/privacy screen products.
  • Fast 1-3 day same-week installation schedule with minimal disruption.
  • Experienced multi-person crews with background checks for safety and precision.
  • Expert design consultations, estimates, and onsite education tailored for every budget.
  • Industry-leading limited lifetime warranties on all materials