Are your window and door screens showing wear and tear from your furry friends? Cats and dogs are notorious for causing damage to window and door screens, but there are ways pet owners can protect their screens from clawing kitties and excited pups.
We know how much joy our furry friends bring into our lives. However, they can also be a source of wear and tear in our homes, especially on our windows and door screens. Traditional screens often bear the brunt of our fur babies' antics, leading to tears, scratches, and costly repairs.
At Glass Doctor®, we understand that pet ownership comes with its own set of challenges. That's why our pet resistant screen solution is the perfect option for pet owners. These durable screens are made to withstand the hazards that come with pet ownership. Pet resistant screens are perfect for doors, windows, screen porches, and even pet doors. Better yet, they are compatible with most standard screen frames and are available for custom fitting.
Why Do I Need Pet Proof Door and Window Screens?
Investing in pet resistant window screens is a smart choice for pet owners looking to pet proof their homes while making them a safer place for them to play. These specially designed screens offer numerous benefits, including better durability, improved safety, and better airflow and visibility. Here are more reasons to choose pet resistant screens for your home:
Superior Strength and Durability
Many pet resistant screen doors and pet resistant window screens are made with vinyl-coated polyester, which is designed to withstand wear and tear from pets. Vinyl-coated polyester is around 10 times stronger than fiberglass and is tough enough to resist your fur baby's playful paws and sharp nails. They can also protect your home from unwanted pests while standing up to the energetic antics of your furry companions.
Improved Safety for Your Pets
If you have a particularly adventurous partner in crime, pet resistant window screens and screen doors can provide some much needed peace of mind. Cats, in particular, typically test the limits of flimsy screens and push against them. This playful behavior can lead to unexpected falls or escapes. A sturdy pet-proof screen door or window screen can prevent them from breaking through when they jump or lean against windows and doors.
Cost-Effective Maintenance and Longevity
You'll likely face frequent repairs with traditional screens due to damage from pet activity, leading to a lot of unnecessary expenses over time. On the other hand, pet resistant screen doors are specifically designed for high-traffic use and minimize the need for ongoing maintenance. Investing in durable pet resistant screens can make your home a safer place for your fur baby while helping you save money in the long run by avoiding regular screen replacements.
Uninterrupted Airflow and Visibility
One of the key benefits of pet resistant screen doors and window screens is their ability to maintain optimal airflow and visibility without sacrificing safety. Pet proof screens provide excellent ventilation, meaning more fresh air will circulate throughout your home while keeping your pets secure inside. You won’t have to choose between keeping your home airy and having a safe environment for your beloved pets; with pet resistant screens, you can enjoy both.
Considerations When Choosing Pet-Safe Screens
Finding the perfect pet-safe screens for your home goes beyond finding the toughest material out there. It's also important to consider several factors to ensure pet-resistant screens meet your needs and keep your pets safe.
Consider Mesh Size and Construction
Opt for a mesh size that balances strength and visibility. A thicker, more dense mesh can provide extra protection against scratches and clawing while still allowing adequate airflow and a clear view of the outside.
Focus on Frame Strength
It's important not to overlook the frame. The toughest mesh is useless if it is mounted on a weak frame. Keep an eye out for reinforced frames that can withstand pressure from pets leaning or pushing against them.
Mind the Placement
Consider where you'll be putting these screens. For instance, screens in doorways may need extra reinforcement, making heavy-duty pet-resistant screens made from vinyl-coated polyester ideal for withstanding constant use. Meanwhile, for windows, opting for pet-resistant screens made from heavy-duty mesh would provide a clear view and adequate ventilation while withstanding impacts and preventing sagging.
Other Ways You Can Protect Your Screens
1. Replace Standard Screens With Manufactured or DIY Pet-Safe Screens
There are manufacturers that make heavy-duty pet- and insect-resistant mesh screening in a variety of materials and levels of durability. These heavy-duty pet proof screens are up to seven times more durable than regular screening and provide long-lasting protection for windows and sliding or storm doors.
If you choose to replace your home’s screening by yourself, start with one screen and a small amount of heavy-duty screening material to test to make sure it’s compatible with the existing window casing. Some replacement window screening may be too thick for certain casings.
Here are more ways to protect your home from adventure seeking pets:
2. Install Acrylic, Wood Panels or Metal Grills to the Lower Portion of a Screen
Dogs and cats typically push or scratch the lower third of a window or door screen. Even acrobatic cats need the lower portion of a screen to get a foothold to climb higher. By installing acrylic or wood panels or metal grills, it’s possible to protect your screen and discourage damaging behavior. To install a screen saver to the bottom of your screen you’ll need to do the following:
- Remove the screen from the window.
- Measure the screen from top to bottom.
- Measure the width of the window opening – between the window and the screen – from the inside surface of one window jamb to the other.
- Size an acrylic or wood panel or metal grill to fit these two measurements.
- Place the grill in the space between the window and the screen so that the brackets on each side of the grill press against the inside surface of the window jambs.
- Ensure that the window opens and closes easily.
- Mark the spots where the holes in the brackets are and remove the grill.
- Drill pilot holes in the window jambs at these spots and replace the grill.
- Drill in the screws to hold the grill in place and replace the screen.
3. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Maintaining pet resistant screen doors and window screens is a breeze, even for the busiest pet owners. Regular cleaning will also help preserve their appearance and functionality. Simply wipe down the pet proof screen door or window screen with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. For more stubborn dirt or grime, a mixture of mild soap and water can effectively clean without damaging the material.
Thanks to their durable construction, pet proof screen doors and window screens can withstand routine maintenance without weakening their integrity. Unlike traditional screens that may weaken with frequent cleaning, pet window screens are designed to resist wear, ensuring pet owners get plenty of mileage out of them.
Other Tips for Protecting Your Screens
- Provide ample scratching posts for kitties.
- Exercise pets so they’re calmer and clamor less to be outdoors.
Pet Resistant Door and Window Screen Installation
Glass Doctor can help you choose the right type of screens for your doors and windows to meet your needs. We will help you find a pet proof screen that provides maximum durability and protection. Our team of professionals will handle the installation with precision and care so you can enjoy all the benefits of your new screens without any of the hassle.
If your pets have already damaged your windows, we’re here to help with that as well! Glass Doctor offers comprehensive window repair and replacement services to restore them to how they were before. And with backing from our Neighborly Done Right Promise™, you can trust that we will get the job done right the first time.
Contact us today to schedule your pet-resistant screen installation and discover how we can improve the durability and safety of your windows and doors!
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Glass Doctor is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Glass Doctor location nearest you for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.
Pet Resistant Screens FAQs
Our commitment to solving your glass-related challenges and meeting your home and auto glass needs has helped us remain a trusted resource for homeowners and businesses for over 50 years. Whether dealing with a small crack or a major glass disaster, you can count on Glass Doctor for the solution. This includes answering your glass-related questions. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about pet-resistant screen doors and windows.
How do I dog-proof my screen door?
To dog-proof your screen door, consider installing a heavy-duty pet-resistant screen designed to withstand scratching and pushing. You can also add a frame reinforcement or a protective guard to prevent damage from extra playful pets.
What is the most durable type of pet-proof screen?
The most durable type of pet-proof screen is made from vinyl-coated polyester, which is seven times stronger than traditional fiberglass screens. This robust material is designed to resist punctures and scratches, making it an excellent choice for homes with active pets.
Are pet screens durable?
Yes, pet screens are significantly more durable than standard window screens. Typically made from PVC or vinyl-coated polyester, they are designed to withstand the wear and tear from pets, providing enhanced strength and resilience against scratches and impacts.
Can you put a pet door in a screen door?
Yes, you can install a pet door in a screen door. Many pet doors are specifically designed to be compatible with pet-resistant screens to allow your furry friend to come and go freely while maintaining the integrity and security of the screen. Professional installation can ensure a proper fit and functionality.