If you live in Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, or Fort Myers, having a well-screened lanai is essential for enjoying Florida’s beautiful weather without the hassle of bugs, debris, or excessive sun exposure. But with so many screen materials available, how do you know which one is right for your home?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best lanai screen materials, their benefits, and how to make the right choice based on your needs and the Southwest Florida climate.
Why the Right Screen Material Matters
Your lanai screen serves multiple purposes, including:
✔️ Keeping out mosquitoes, no-see-ums, and other pests
✔️ Reducing sun glare and heat
✔️ Protecting outdoor furniture from UV damage
✔️ Increasing privacy without blocking airflow
Choosing the wrong screen material can lead to frequent replacements, poor durability, and unnecessary expenses. Here’s what you should know before making your decision.
Types of Lanai Screen Materials
1. Fiberglass Screens: Affordable & Flexible
✅ Pros: Cost-effective, good visibility, easy to install
❌ Cons: Less durable than aluminum, prone to tearing
Fiberglass screens are one of the most common choices for lanais in Naples and Cape Coral. They provide excellent visibility and airflow while keeping out insects. However, they are not the most durable option, especially in areas with high winds or heavy rain.
Best for: Homeowners looking for an affordable, standard option for moderate use.
2. Aluminum Screens: Long-Lasting & Strong
✅ Pros: High durability, weather-resistant, corrosion-resistant
❌ Cons: More expensive than fiberglass, slightly less flexible
Aluminum screens are an excellent investment for homes in Fort Myers and Bonita Springs, where strong winds and heavy storms are common. These screens last longer and resist corrosion better than fiberglass.
Best for: Homeowners who want a long-term, durable screen that withstands Florida’s weather.
3. No-See-Um Screens: Extra Protection Against Small Insects
✅ Pros: Tightly woven to keep out even the tiniest bugs
❌ Cons: Slightly reduced airflow compared to standard screens
If you live near the wetlands of Marco Island or Cape Coral, you know how annoying no-see-ums can be. These tiny insects can pass through standard screens, but no-see-um screens have a tighter weave that blocks them out while still providing good airflow.
Best for: Homeowners near water or marshy areas who want protection from tiny insects.
4. Solar Screens: Block Heat & UV Rays
✅ Pros: Reduces heat and glare, protects furniture from fading
❌ Cons: More expensive than standard screens, slightly reduces visibility
For homeowners in Naples and Bonita Springs looking to reduce energy costs and sun exposure, solar screens are a great option. They block up to 90% of UV rays, keeping your lanai cooler and protecting your outdoor furniture from fading.
Best for: Those who want a cooler lanai with sun protection, especially in direct-sun locations.
5. Pet-Resistant Screens: Extra Strength for Homes with Pets
✅ Pros: Thicker, more durable mesh that withstands scratching and clawing
❌ Cons: Slightly more expensive than standard screens
If you have dogs or cats that love spending time outside, a pet-resistant screen is a smart choice. These screens are designed to be stronger and more resistant to tearing, making them perfect for homeowners in Cape Coral and Fort Myers with active pets.
Best for: Pet owners who want a durable screen that won’t rip easily.
How to Choose the Best Screen Material for Your Needs
When selecting a screen material for your lanai, consider the following:
🔹 Your Location: If you live near water, no-see-um screens are a must. If you’re in a high-sun area, solar screens will help reduce heat.
🔹 Durability Needs: Aluminum screens last longer, but fiberglass is more affordable.
🔹 Privacy & Sun Protection: If you want more shade and UV protection, opt for solar screens.
🔹 Pets & Kids: A pet-resistant screen is best for households with pets or children.
Why Choose Best Rescreen Company?
At Best Rescreen Company, we’ve been helping homeowners in Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, and Fort Myers choose and install the perfect lanai screens since 1993. We use only the best materials and guarantee professional, high-quality installation.
✔️ Over 30 years of experience
✔️ High-quality screen materials
✔️ Fast and reliable service
✔️ Affordable pricing
If you’re ready to upgrade your lanai with the best screen material, we’re here to help!
📍 Location: Southwest Florida
📞 Call us today for a free estimate: (239) 344-7774
🌐 Visit our website for more information: bestrescreenco.com
