No-See-Um Screen vs Regular Screen

Whenever you start a new screening project, you are faced with the decision of what kind of screen mesh to use. Do you want to prioritize visibility or durability? Which color finish best matches your home? Are you in need of solar protection or allergy filters?

If your property is often plagued by insects, one of your primary concerns should be determining what level of protection you will need for that. 

Is standard fiberglass screening enough, or will you need a particular type of no-see-um screen, also known as tiny mesh or micro mesh? In this post, we aim to help you better understand the different types of tiny mesh and their uses so you can make an informed decision for your home project. 

What is a no-see-um screen?

While all of our screens provide insect protection, there are some types of bugs that are small enough to crawl through them. Though all of these bugs are often called "no-see-ums," the name actually refers to a specific type of tiny, blood-sucking, biting fly.

Other tiny insects that can cause this problem include gnats and sand flies. Coastal homes are most likely to have issues with these insects, which makes them the most likely to benefit from screen for no see ums. 

Types of No-See-Um Screen

We have several different options for those in need of no-see-um screening: 

• No-See-Um 20x20 Fiberglass Mesh
  This is our standard no-see-um screening. It is more durable than regular fiberglass screen, but less so than some of the following options. It is extremely versatile and can be used anywhere you would put window screen. 
• 24x22 Aluminum Tiny Mesh
  An even tighter mesh, this will protect against almost any insect as well as prevent a good amount of dirt and debris from entering your space. The aluminum material makes this a great economy option. This mesh material also provides excellent visibility and airflow!
• 20x30 Solar Insect Screen
  On top of providing protection from even the tiniest pests, our solar insect screen also provides protection against 65% of UV exposure. Use it to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays and reduce your home's A/C costs. 
• 20x17 Super Screen Tiny Mesh
  For places in your home where you want extra durability, Super Screen tiny mesh has you covered. Made from vinyl-coated polyester, this heavy-duty screen can stand up to the elements, time, and of course, tiny insects. 
• 20x20 Super Screen No-See-Um Mesh
  The strongest no-see-um protection on the market. Keep even the smallest insects out of your home, porch, or pool enclosure for years to come with 20x20 Super Screen. 

No-see-um screen vs regular (fiberglass) screen

So is no-see-um screen a better choice than standard fiberglass for your next project? If most likely depends on what level of protection you require. Both screens can be used for windows, pool cages, patios, and screen doors, and both offer some level of insect protection. For a better idea of your options, breaking down the pros and cons of each mesh is always a good first step. 

Fiberglass Screen Pros and Cons

Fiberglass screen mesh is the most commonly used screening available, as it's flexible and inexpensive. 

Fiberglass Screen: Pros

• Insect protection against larger bugs
• Economy option
• Easy to install

Fiberglass Screen: Cons

• Standard durability
• Only protects against larger insects

No-See-Um Screen Pros and Cons

If your home is often a target for no-see-ums, sand flies, gnats, or other tiny insects, you may be thinking about installing no-see-um tiny mesh. No-See-Um mesh is a popular choice for homes in low marshy or coastal areas, where these tinier gnats often thrive. 

No-See-Um Screen: Pros

• Increased durability (even more so for tiny mesh Super Screen)
• Longer lasting
• Protection against even the smallest pests
• 65% UV solar protection (when using tiny mesh solar screen) 
• Increased daytime privacy

No-See-Um Screen: Cons

• More expensive
• Slightly reduced visibility

Learn more about your screening options

Deciding on the mesh that best suits your home's needs can be a tall order. Fiberglass and no-see-um meshes are just a couple of the dozens of screening solutions we offer. 

Our experts are here to walk you through our products and help you select the best option for your home improvement project. Call Metro Screenworks today, or visit our showroom in Highlands Ranch, Colorado!