A mosquito net is a common accessory for any modern window, making its operation more comfortable. The mesh fabric will serve as a barrier against active insects, dust, pollen, fluff, and cigarettes flying from the upper floors. You can purchase the mesh at the same time as purchasing a new window, or install it on an already installed product. Various types of mosquito nets for plastic windows, their features, benefits and disadvantages when used will be described in this article.
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. Previously, we wrote how to make a mosquito net with your own hands and as cheaply as possible; there is also an article about all types of MS installation. 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.
Additional nuances
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.
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.
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.
Magnetic mesh
Meshes that use magnets as locking elements can have a frameless or swing frame design.
Frameless are mesh fabrics that are hung on doorways in the form of curtains. Both parts of the mesh are held together by magnets. The canvases swing open easily, providing unobstructed passage through the opening. The mesh is attached to the door frame with Velcro or rivets. The dimensions of the canvases are adjusted to the height of any opening. Additional weight is sewn into the bottom of the mesh to prevent the fabric from rinsing. In summer, frameless magnetic grids are especially in demand at dachas and country houses. It’s easy to sew such a net yourself from old curtains.
To exit onto a balcony or loggia, it is more convenient to use a swing frame mesh. It is installed on the outside of the door on special hinges, and is secured in the closed position using a magnetic latch. Essentially, this is another door to protect against dust and midges. For balcony nets, a frame profile with a stronger section is used.
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
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.
How to measure meshes correctly
If the mesh was not installed at the same time as the window, its installation can be ordered additionally from the manufacturer. But how to choose the size of the mesh so that it perfectly covers the opening? The size of the mesh of any design depends, first of all, on the light opening in which it will be installed. The type and method of fastening also affect its dimensions. Calling a specialist to measure will eliminate mistakes, but taking measurements and calculating the dimensions of the frame is not at all difficult on your own.
The light opening is measured with the sash open along the most protruding parts of the structure. Measurements are taken with a tape measure in several places.
After taking measurements, you need to evaluate the dimensions of the outer part of the window and understand whether it is possible to install an overhead frame protection, or whether a mesh with fastening in the opening is needed. To install an overhead screen, there must be enough space on the outside of the window to attach the brackets.
Measuring frame mosquito net on metal Z-mounts
Z-shaped metal brackets are the simplest and most common type of fastening of an overhead mesh. Fasteners are installed two at a time on the horizontal parts of the window block. To install the mesh, you need to engage its upper part with the fasteners, and then lift it up and place it on the lower brackets.
Before ordering a mesh with such a mount for an installed window, you need to make sure that there is enough space on it to attach the brackets. A window set deep into a quarter or a protective grill mounted close to the outer plane eliminates the use of Z-shaped fasteners.
The size of the mesh with this type of fastening is determined by the size of the light opening. To the dimensions of the light opening you need to add at least 40 mm in width and 60 mm in height. Example: for a light opening of 1400 * 600 mm, the minimum size of the overhead mesh will be 1460 * 640 mm.
Measuring a mosquito net mounted on pins (plungers)
The plunger fastening is a stainless steel pin with a cap and a spring that allows you to adjust its depth. To install the metal rod, coaxial holes are made on the window frame and mosquito net. The plungers are inserted into the mesh frame, two pieces on each vertical side. After installing the mesh in the light opening, the plungers, under the action of a spring, enter the window openings and securely fix the mesh.
Plunger mounting is suitable for windows:
- too deep in a quarter, and not having side surfaces for installing an overhead mesh;
- protected from the outside by metal bars;
- for some types of old wooden windows.
The plungers allow you to install the mesh directly into the size of the window light opening.
The plunger fastening is more reliable than on plastic or metal hooks. Through fastening with metal pins prevents the mesh from falling out during strong gusts of wind. Plungers are often used for anti-cat nets - a reliable fastening can withstand the weight of a small animal.
Measurement of the plunger grid must be carried out with extreme accuracy. Deviation to the smaller side will result in the formation of a gap through which insects can penetrate. If the mesh is large, it simply won’t fit into the opening. It is necessary to subtract 6 mm from the obtained values in order to provide a minimum gap and space for installing the brush seal. Example: for a light opening of 1400*600 mm, the grid size will be 1394*594 mm.
How does Anti-cat differ from a typical mosquito?
A typical mosquito net, which is installed as an obstacle to insects, is not designed for increased load. The frame's fastenings will not withstand the weight of an adult cat leaning or jumping on it, and the mesh fabric will tear under its sharp claws.
The Anti-Cat mesh is free of these shortcomings. It is distinguished by:
- Highly durable materials - from polyester to stainless steel.
- Reinforced frame structure. PVC elements are replaced with similar ones made of aluminum profiles.
- More reliable fastenings around the perimeter of the window.
Such a mosquito will withstand not only the weight and claws of a cat, but even the beaks of small birds that remove stuck insects from its cells.
Note! Often, mosquito mosquito nets are equipped with an additional crossbar to protect pets. It reduces the deflection of the canvas when an animal leans on it or jumps.
Structure reinforced with impost (cross member)
The Anti-Cat is almost always made from dark materials. Animals more easily perceive it as an obstacle.
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.
Removable and stationary anti-mosquitoes
Mosquito nets can be both stationary and removable. The first option has a significant drawback: once the structure is installed, it can only be dismantled with the help of professionals and usually remains on the window at any time of the year. This is inconvenient, because in this case it is impossible to thoroughly wash the canvas on both sides, and during the winter it does not allow the already scarce and short-lived daylight to fully penetrate the home.
Removable structures are free of this drawback; they are easily removed for repairs, washing or for the winter. It is these solutions that are becoming increasingly popular and are recommended for installation by specialists.
Assembly tool
Since making a mosquito net is possible at home, you do not need specialized tools. Everything you need, as a rule, is available in every household:
- The tape measure is used to accurately measure the profile dimensions for the frame and mesh;
- A hacksaw for cutting the profile to size;
- Stationery knife - for cutting off excess mesh;
- Roller for rolling cord.
You may also need a hammer and a marker. You don’t have to use the cord roller; try replacing it with an item of comparable size. But we advise you not to skimp on it, because with a roller the seaming process is much simpler, faster and eliminates the possibility of loose and uneven placement of the cord in the groove.
Choosing material: what to pay attention to?
In addition to the design features of the mesh, the properties of the cellular fabric itself are of considerable importance. Here are some recommendations for choosing material given by experienced installers:
- Pet owners should prefer fiberglass cellular sheets. This material costs slightly more than conventional polymer, but is highly durable. Even a cat jumping onto the net will not be able to break through the strong threads. Of course, to provide reliable protection, the frame must also have sufficient strength.
- For allergy sufferers, the best solution would be polyamide fiber curtains that meet the requirements of the “Anti-Dust” and “Anti-Pollen” classes. Thanks to the reduced cell size, such screens will protect the room not only from insects and poplar fluff, but also from smaller carriers of allergens.
- Owners of rooms facing the sunny side will like nets equipped with a reflective coating. Applying an aluminum film to the outer surface made it possible to achieve a high coefficient of reflection of solar rays. In addition to good shading ability, such a grid practically does not allow you to see what is happening in the room. It is almost comparable in effectiveness to window tinting.
- Ultraview mesh is distinguished by its reduced fiber thickness. Thanks to this, the canvas transmits the sun 25% better. Materials of this variety are suitable for mesh installed on a window facing the shady side.
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In addition to the type of material, the size of the cells in the mesh is also important. Most experts recommend mosquito screens with mesh sizes of 1–0.8 mm for urban environments. If they are smaller, the mesh will trap air. Small insects can already get through large holes.
Roll
An independent roll-up insect protection system is an excellent solution, with the ability to close and open it at any time. The structural elements of the screen (box and guides) are made of extruded aluminum, which ensures durability and strength for many years of use. Fittings, covers and connecting elements are plastic.
A special clamp helps to adjust the height of the closing mesh. Installation of the system on the jumper is very quick and easy thanks to the aluminum latch. In addition, you can use a limiter that allows smooth and silent closing of the end strip to the box. This is a very aesthetic and modern solution that, thanks to its small box, fits perfectly into any niche.
The rolled mesh is transported in the form of a constructor consisting of a rolling mechanism, guides, a bottom bar and a bag of small parts. The mosquito net is assembled by installers on site.
Rolled insect screen does not require additional storage space in winter
Advantages:
- chemically resistant, does not decompose, resistant to environmental influences;
- designed for durable operation (service life 3-5 years or more);
- the ability to close large openings;
- can be installed indoors and outdoors;
- mounted on a window or doorway all year round.
