As a rule, mosquitoes are ordered immediately when purchasing a window with a metal-plastic profile. However, quite often the user receives a window without a grid - for example, in a new building, where the windows are already installed and no additions are provided for them. The same applies to buying an apartment or house. Often it is necessary to replace failed products. And in all cases, it is very important to know the exact dimensions of mosquito nets for plastic windows to order or purchase finished products.
Let's try to figure out how to take measurements correctly and whether in some cases it is possible to neglect them and rely on standard data.
How to measure the size of a mosquito net for a window
Basic data to help you correctly size a mosquito net:
- height and width of the frame when open;
- the minimum width of the frame before it is inserted (or adjacent) to the slope, that is, in fact, the distance from the edge of the glass unit to the wall;
- the distance between the fastening elements of the old mesh (if any. If some of the fasteners (pockets) are missing, it is better to discard them and use a more modern installation method - with clips with a screw fastening to the frame or rods. The final size of the mesh frame will depend on the choice of fastening method .
In fact, to the size of the frame “from elastic to elastic” (elastic bands mean sealing contours around the perimeter of the frame) 2…4 cm are added per side.
Thus, if a mesh is planned on Z-shaped fastenings, and the opening size is 700x1400 mm, then the dimensions of the mesh along the outer contour will be 760x1460 mm (an increase of 30 mm per side).
Important: when the manufacturer offers fastening the mesh frame to the window frame with hooks ( Z-shaped clamps), the size of the opening in the window frame coincides with the external dimensions of the mesh frame! Accordingly, you need to measure exactly the size “from elastic to elastic.”
Measuring the insert mesh
Three simple steps to measure your mosquito net yourself:
- Open the sash on which you plan to install the mesh.
- Measure the width of the light opening (W).
- Measure the height of the light opening (B).
Important: all measurements must be taken along the plastic edge of the window. Please indicate all values in millimeters. Before ordering, make sure that the outer part of the sash is flat and will not squeeze out the mesh. You can use our online calculator to calculate the approximate cost of a mosquito net.
Are there standards?
Someone will say: all windows are different, how can you talk about sizes without careful measurements of a specific opening? Nevertheless, certain standards exist.
First of all, they concern mass-produced houses. Thus, for a window opening up to 1500...1600 mm wide, two sashes are usually used, both opening or one blind. If we take the sizes of windows for houses of the Khrushchev type and assume the equal size of both sashes, then the standard size of the mosquito net will be
- for an opening in a wall 1300x1520 mm, half a window is 750x1520 mm. Since the full size of the opening in the wall is indicated, and not the internal size of the frame, we do not add, but subtract 1.5...2 cm from the side. We get 746x1480 mm;
- for an opening 1760x1520 mm, divide the width by three, we get approximately 587 mm. Using the algorithm proposed above, we calculate the size of the mosquito net 547x1480 mm.
It should also be understood that it is convenient for manufacturers to round the calculated figures to multiples of 5 or 10 numbers. Therefore, when reporting dimensions, you can immediately make a personal rounding - of course, up.
In new buildings, windows are installed according to a single standard, and local manufacturers of windows and fittings for them usually know both the sizes of window/balcony openings and the required mesh dimensions. But it’s better to indicate the address of the house and the name of the developer company when ordering, but also clarify the dimensions of the opening - despite standardization, there may be deviations.
Mesh for metal-plastic window
It’s not worth talking about the purpose of the mesh, since even a child knows everything about it, but not everyone knows how to ensure that it fulfills its role in full. The point is that the wrong choice can lead to some problems, namely:
- Incorrect measurements will lead to the fact that the mesh on the plastic window will be large or small. In the first case, it will be difficult to install, and in the second, there will be gaps through which various insects will freely enter the room. If the large one can still be adjusted to size, then the small one will have to be replaced.
- The size of the mesh cells should facilitate good air exchange, but at the same time keep insects out. Any deviation will lead to undesirable results.
- The fastenings must be of high quality so that the mesh fits tightly to the window and cannot be torn off by the wind.
Measurements
Measuring the clearance
In order to order a mesh for a plastic window, you need to find out the dimensions of the window opening of the opening sash. It is also important to think in advance about how to install it - outside or inside the frame. This is an important point, since the grid sizes will vary. Although measurements with millimeter accuracy are not needed for external fastening, certain parameters must still be adhered to (to avoid unnecessary problems).
Other types of mesh can be installed on windows, but then it is better for a representative of the manufacturer to come and take measurements.
Mounting methods
Additional nuances
When talking about the size of a mosquito net, users sometimes mean not the overall dimensions, but the mesh size of the mosquito net or the profile dimensions for the mosquito net.
The types of mosquito nets are described in sufficient detail in our article “Types of mosquito nets for plastic windows.” Here we just recall that its properties strongly depend on the size of the cell: air and light permeability, the possibility of penetration of small midges, resistance to the claws of pets.
Usually the largest cells do not exceed 1x2, less often 2x2 mm, the smallest - 0.25x1 mm.
As for the profile for frames, it is available in aluminum and PVC. Metal profiles are intended mainly for anti-cat mesh, where a panel of metal or metallized fibers, as well as fiberglass and reinforced polymers is placed. PVC is the standard for conventional products. The dimensions of the profile, more precisely, its cross-section, usually fit into a rectangle of 10x20 mm, 17x20 mm and 10x30 mm.
Aluminum profile
PVC profile
When installing the mesh, it is tucked into the U-shaped groove and pressed with a special cord.
Taking into account the dimensions of the frame profile (the large number means its width), you can calculate the final size of the mosquito net. So, if you need to block the opening with a margin, then the size of this margin can just be the width of the profile. If the mesh is placed clearly in the opening, that is, the light clearance will decrease by the width of the profile.
Requirements for mosquito nets
The fabric of the mosquito net determines the effectiveness of the product. The mesh fabric must have a margin of strength, be durable, and have high resistance to ultraviolet radiation and atmospheric moisture. The mesh fabric should provide good light transmission and not spoil the aesthetics of the window. The following types of fabrics are used for the manufacture of protective filters:
- Polyester mesh;
- fabric made of aluminum alloy threads;
- fiberglass mesh with a protective layer.
Depending on the functional purpose, mesh fabrics differ in the thickness of the threads and the size of the cells:
- standard fabric - cell size 1.0-1.2 mm;
- “anti-cat” fabric (mesh size 1.0-1.2 mm) made of double fibers of increased strength, capable of withstanding the impact of the claws of a cat or parrot;
- “anti-dust” fabric (0.8*1.0 mm cells) filters the air, trapping large-sized dust and pollen.
Typically, a gray canvas is used - a neutral shade is less noticeable and not irritating to visual perception. The thicker anti-cat fabric is usually black.
No. 9. Anti-cat mesh
The window carries not only the danger of dirt and insects entering the apartment, but also the risk of an accident with a pet. Previously, nets with a mesh size of 5 cm were popular - they blocked the path of the animal, but did not protect against insects, and then two nets began to be used in tandem, and such a dense design did not allow sunlight to penetrate normally into the apartment.
Today, an anti-cat net looks like a regular mosquito net, but is more durable and can withstand the weight of an animal if the furry pet tries to get out of the apartment. These nets are made from vinyl threads coated with polyester, so even scratch marks do not remain on them. Manufacturers say that their strength is 7 times greater than that of conventional nets, and the product does an excellent job of protecting against insects.
Measurements for z-mount meshes
Calculation of dimensions for this type of mesh is carried out similarly to the previous one, but 20 millimeters must be added to the obtained measurement results.
When using such nets, you need to take into account that it is mounted outside the window, therefore, there must be enough space for installation. Difficulties during installation can be caused by nearby slopes or window grilles mounted near the window. In such cases, it is recommended to use a mesh with a plunger attachment.
Mosquito net for door
Mesh on the door
As for the mesh on the door, there are several options:
- Standard mosquito door made of profile.
- Door to the sliding loggia.
- Pleated mesh.
- Rolling door.
- Magnetic mesh.
- Homemade wooden door.
If desired, you can also attach the mesh to the door with Velcro. The question is: will it be convenient to use it later?
The most common option is a frame door. It opens in the opposite direction from the main door, and it is held in place by furniture magnets. To order this product, light opening data is required. This method of sizing is better because, even without knowing the width of the profile used, you will be absolutely sure that the internal dimensions of the mesh and the doorway will be the same. When ordering a product, be sure to clarify what exactly was measured, and that you indicate the internal size of the future frame of the anti-mosquito door.
Cheaper doors are assembled from window profiles. Over time, they may become warped or sag.
Sliding design
Sliding nets
If sliding balcony doors are installed, then the net should be the same. There are standard sliding nets, and there are pleated nets. It’s worth noting right away that this type of mesh is not cheap, and installing it is very difficult for an inexperienced person. Therefore, it is better for a specialist to take measurements and install. This is exactly the case when the desire to save money can lead to additional expenses spent on remodeling.
When choosing a sliding mesh, keep in mind that it will require a lot of space, while a pleated mesh will fit in a relatively small opening.
Rolled mosquito net
If you are interested in a roll-up mosquito net, then you need to know some of the features of installing this product and using it. Installation is carried out outside the frame, which must be taken into account when taking measurements. There are no particular difficulties with its installation, but you need to take into account the fact that due to the specific design of such a door, it is not intended for frequent use, and the point is not in the mechanism itself, but in convenience. Imagine that every time you need to go out onto the balcony, the net will need to be raised and then lowered. For this reason, such devices are installed on doors that are rarely used, or on windows.
This mesh does not need to be removed for the winter, since it rolls up and fits in a box located above the door.
Magnetic mesh
Anti-mosquito door screen magic mesh
Recently, an innovation has appeared, such as a mesh on magnets, which is very convenient to use. The operating principle of this double-gender mesh is based on the attraction of magnets attached to the inner edges. With a slight movement of the hand or other part of the body, the doors move apart and, after the passage of a person or animal, they immediately close.
The size of such nets is indicated on the packaging. To avoid mistakes, you need to measure not the clearance, but the door frame. Having such data, you can select a suitable grid. Since it often comes with a margin in length, during installation it must be adjusted so that the edges do not cling to the floor or threshold, otherwise it will not be able to close.
Close all passages for mosquitoes
In this article, we tried to provide the best possible overview of the grids and describe how to take measurements for them. If you want to add something, please leave a comment at the end of the article.
Video
This video explains how to correctly measure a window, so that later, using these dimensions, you can order a suitable mosquito net:
See how to correctly measure and make your own mosquito net for a metal-plastic window:
Sources
- https://stroim-dom.net/vse-pro-vidy-i-razmery-moskitnyh-setok-kak-vypolnit-tochnyj-zamer-na-plastikovoe-okno/
- https://bouw.ru/article/razmeri-moskitnoy-setki-dlya-plastikovih-okon
- https://stroy-okey.ru/remont/windoors/razmery-moskitnyh-setok-na-plastikovye-okna/
- https://kakpravilnosdelat.ru/kak-zamerit-moskitnuyu-setku/
- https://okna-biz.ru/content/kak-zamerit-moskitnuyu-setku-na-okno/
- https://balkonsam.ru/okna/kak-zamerit-moskitnuyu-setku.html
How not to make a mistake with the grid size?
Careful measurement of the light opening with maximum accuracy will help you avoid mistakes when determining the mesh size. Consulting a specialist will help dispel doubts about the correct size. Consultants from companies that manufacture mosquito protection will help you correctly calculate the dimensions of the mesh based on the size of the light opening.
By installing a mosquito net, you can keep the window open during the warm season without fear of an invasion of flying and crawling insects. The presence of a mosquito net does not interfere with air exchange between the room and the street and does not reduce light transmission through the window opening. You can forget about chemical repellents and adhesive tapes - the mesh accessory will reliably protect the room from flies, mosquitoes and butterflies.
Mesh for wooden window
Mesh on a wooden window
Modern wooden windows differ from metal-plastic ones only in the material used in their manufacture. Therefore, the grid for them will be the same as described above.
What to do if you have ordinary wooden windows installed? No one will fasten the mesh to the frame with buttons or glazing beads. In principle, a mesh with Velcro or in an aluminum profile frame can also be installed. If you want to tinker, you can make a mosquito net on a wooden frame. Measurements are taken in exactly the same way as for Velcro mesh.
Such a product will not last long, since the wood may warp, and the slats will have to be painted frequently, for which the mesh will have to be removed, and there is no guarantee that it can be reused. In addition, you will have to screw the mesh frame to the window frame with self-tapping screws or invent a fastening.
Types of mosquito nets
They differ not only in canvas, but also in design. The design of the protective screen depends on the type and material of the windows, the desire or unwillingness to remove it during the cold season and the budget.
Frame mosquito nets
Frame construction is the cheapest option for meshes. They are simple, practical and convenient - this has made them the most common protection against mosquitoes and midges. This type is suitable for windows of any shape and material. The frame screen is easy to install and remove from the opening to clean it from street dust or put it away during the cold season. You can restore the cleanliness of the product simply by rinsing it under running water.
The mesh consists of an aluminum or PVC profile, connecting corners, mosquito net and sealing cord. The profile serves as a frame for the stretched fabric. A sealing cord secures the canvas around the perimeter of the frame. For ease of installation and removal, the frame has two handles.
On screens for windows with a height of 1 m or more, an additional horizontal jumper is installed, which serves as a stiffener and improves the geometric stability of the screen.
According to the installation method, there are two types of frame structures: in the opening and overhead. Overlays are attached to the outside of the window using brackets. Metal clamps or plungers are used for fixation into the opening.
Rolling mosquito nets
The roller mosquito net is designed like a roller blind. The canvas is in a folded position in a box fixed above the window. Guides are attached to both sides of the opening, ensuring that the canvas is fixed during movement and that it fits snugly.
Using a spring mechanism, the canvas easily moves from top to bottom and is fixed in the lowered position. To open the opening, simply press the latch handle and the mosquito net will roll itself into a box under the action of a spring. The design reliably closes the window opening, and its mobility allows you to quickly gain access to the open window. The rolled mesh is rigidly fixed - it is not removed for the winter, it will not fall out during hurricane gusts of wind.
In terms of comfort and aesthetics, this is the best design option. The disadvantages include:
- higher cost;
- Possibility of installation only simultaneously with window installation (it is impossible to attach to an already installed window);
- reduces the size of the window by the height of the box.
Care for the roll structure is carried out with a damp soft cloth, a vacuum cleaner or a soft brush.
Mesh on a wooden window
Protective accessories against insects for modern wooden euro-windows are no different from those used for windows made of other materials. The only difference can be in the method of fastening. Most often used:
- frameless canvases - secured to the frame using Velcro or double-sided tape. Recommended for use on small doors or windows;
- frame overhead screens;
- roller type mesh.
The mesh frame can be painted or laminated to match the color of the wooden structure. Installing mosquito protection on wooden windows of the last century requires an individual approach in each case.
Sliding nets
The difference between sliding mosquito nets and stationary ones is that they can be moved. Mounted on guides (runners), they easily move in the plane of the frame, taking the place of one of the open sashes. They are mounted on the inside of the window, but if necessary, external installation is also possible. The glued felt seal eliminates the gap between the frame and the mesh. Sliding mosquito nets are used for installation on various types of enclosing structures:
- for sliding glazing of balconies, the opening system of which does not allow the use of stationary nets;
- on large panoramic structures, where other types of meshes are also not applicable.
- on traditional swing structures - the mesh can be easily moved without removing it, allowing quick access to the open opening.
