In Southwest Florida, lanais and patios are a staple of outdoor living. They offer a relaxing space to enjoy the sunshine, fresh air, and beautiful views. But while traditional screens provide great ventilation and protection from pests, sometimes you need a little extra privacy and durability. That’s where Florida Glass, also known as Phifer Glas-Shield, comes in.
Whether you’re in Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Fort Myers, or Cape Coral, this specialized screening option could be the perfect solution for your outdoor space. In this blog, we’ll explain what Florida Glass is, its unique benefits, and when you should consider using it.
What Is Florida Glass (Phifer Glas-Shield)?
Florida Glass is a laminated fiberglass screen coated with a thin layer of vinyl, giving it a smooth and opaque finish. Unlike traditional mesh screens, Florida Glass is not designed for ventilation but for privacy and durability. Its unique construction makes it water-resistant, providing a barrier against rain, debris, and insects.
Phifer Glas-Shield, the brand name for Florida Glass, is manufactured by Phifer Incorporated, a trusted name in high-performance screening solutions. This material is widely used in Florida for lanais, pool enclosures, and patios due to its ability to handle the state’s challenging climate.
Key Benefits of Florida Glass
1. Enhanced Privacy
Florida Glass is opaque, making it an excellent choice for homeowners who value privacy. Whether you’re in a bustling neighborhood in Cape Coral or along a busy street in Naples, Florida Glass creates a secluded outdoor space where you can relax without prying eyes.
2. Water Resistance
Unlike traditional screens, Florida Glass prevents water from seeping through. This feature is particularly useful during Florida’s rainy season, as it keeps your patio or lanai dry and free from mud splatter.
3. Debris Protection
Florida Glass acts as a barrier against debris, such as leaves and grass clippings, making it a popular choice for pool enclosures in Fort Myers and Marco Island.
4. UV Protection
The vinyl coating blocks harmful UV rays, protecting your furniture, flooring, and outdoor décor from fading.
5. Easy Maintenance
Because of its smooth surface, Florida Glass is easy to clean. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth or a spray from the hose is usually enough to keep it looking pristine.
When Should You Use Florida Glass?
1. For Privacy
If your home in Bonita Springs or Naples is close to neighbors or overlooks a busy area, Florida Glass is a great option for creating a private outdoor retreat. Use it on the lower panels of your lanai or pool enclosure for added privacy without sacrificing airflow on the upper panels.
2. To Protect Against Rain
Florida’s frequent rain showers can make outdoor spaces messy. Florida Glass is an excellent solution for homeowners in Cape Coral and Marco Island who want to keep their lanais or patios dry during wet weather.
3. For Pool Enclosures
Debris from nearby trees or landscaping can quickly dirty a pool. Florida Glass is a popular choice for the bottom panels of pool enclosures, where it prevents leaves, grass, and dirt from entering while still allowing airflow above.
4. For Multi-Functional Spaces
If you use your lanai or patio as a multi-functional space, such as a workshop or an outdoor dining area, Florida Glass adds a layer of protection from wind and rain, making the space more versatile.
How Does Florida Glass Compare to Traditional Screens?
| Feature | Florida Glass | Traditional Screens |
|---|---|---|
| Privacy | Opaque, excellent for privacy | Transparent, offers minimal privacy |
| Ventilation | Limited | Excellent airflow |
| Water Resistance | Highly water-resistant | Allows water to pass through |
| UV Protection | Blocks UV rays | Minimal UV protection |
| Debris Control | Prevents debris entirely | Allows small debris through |
Installation Tips for Florida Glass
- Combine with Traditional Screens: To maintain airflow, many homeowners in Fort Myers and Naples opt to install Florida Glass on the bottom panels of their enclosures while using traditional screens on the upper panels.
- Choose Professional Installation: Florida Glass requires precise cutting and installation to ensure a snug fit. Working with a professional like Best Rescreen Company ensures the job is done correctly and efficiently.
- Consider Your Needs: Evaluate your specific needs, such as privacy, rain protection, or debris control, to determine if Florida Glass is the right choice for your space.
Why Choose Best Rescreen Company for Florida Glass Installation?
At Best Rescreen Company, we specialize in providing high-quality screening solutions for homeowners in Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Fort Myers, and Cape Coral. Whether you need Florida Glass, traditional screens, or a combination of both, we’ve got you covered.
What Sets Us Apart?
- Over 30 Years of Experience: We’ve been serving Southwest Florida since 1993, offering expert craftsmanship and personalized service.
- Top-Quality Materials: We use only the best products, including Phifer Glas-Shield, to ensure durability and satisfaction.
- Affordable Pricing: Our competitive rates mean you get the best value for your investment.
- Fast, Reliable Service: We work efficiently to minimize disruptions to your daily routine.
Contact Us Today
If you’re ready to upgrade your lanai or pool enclosure with Florida Glass, contact Best Rescreen Company today for a free consultation and estimate.
- Location: Southwest Florida
- Phone: (239) 344-7774
- Website: www.bestrescreenco.com
We proudly serve homeowners in Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Fort Myers, and Cape Coral. Let us help you create a private, functional, and beautiful outdoor space with Florida Glass!
