Choosing the Right Screen for Your Pool Cage or Lanai

Choosing the right screen isn’t just about price—it’s about comfort, protection, durability, and how you use your space.

There are several screen options available in Florida, and each one serves a different purpose. The most important factor is understanding what changes between them.

What actually changes between screens?

The main difference is mesh size, thickness, and material strength:

• Larger openings → more airflow, less protection
• Smaller openings → more protection, less airflow
• Thicker material → more durability

For a focused comparison of the two most common mesh types, see 20x20 no-see-um vs 18/14 screen.

1. 18/14 standard screen (most common)

Best for:

• Homes that want airflow and visibility
• Pool cages with good breeze
• Areas with low insect activity

Why choose it:

• Excellent airflow
• Clear view
• Most affordable option
• Easy to clean

👉 This is the most commonly used screen in Florida because it balances comfort and cost.

2. 20x20 no-see-um screen (bug protection)

Best for:

• Homes near lakes, woods, or water
• Areas with no-see-ums or biting insects
• People sensitive to bug bites

Why choose it:

• Blocks tiny insects (no-see-ums, gnats)
• Better overall protection
• Slightly more privacy

👉 Trade-off: less airflow compared to 18/14.

3. Florida glass privacy screen

Best for:

• Lower panels of pool cages
• Privacy from neighbors
• Blocking dirt, water splash, and debris

Why choose it:

• Adds privacy
• Acts as a barrier against rain and dirt
• Gives a clean, solid look

👉 Very popular on bottom sections of pool cages.

4. Shade screen (heat & sun control)

Best for:

• Areas with strong sun exposure
• Lanais that get too hot
• Customers looking for comfort over visibility

Why choose it:

• Reduces heat significantly
• Blocks UV rays
• Adds daytime privacy

👉 Great for making your outdoor space cooler and more usable.

5. Super screen (long-term durability)

Best for:

• Homeowners who want a long-lasting solution
• Areas with frequent storms or wear

Why choose it:

• Much stronger than standard screen
• Longer lifespan
• More resistant to tearing

👉 Higher upfront cost, but saves money long-term.

6. Pet screen (heavy-duty protection)

Best for:

• Homes with dogs or cats
• High-traffic areas (doors, lower panels)

Why choose it:

• Extra thick and durable
• Resists scratches and damage
• Reduces repairs over time

👉 Ideal for pet owners tired of replacing screens.

Smart strategy: mix screens

Most homeowners don’t realize—you don’t have to choose just one.

A smart setup is:

Lower panels:

• Florida glass (privacy), or
• 20x20 (bug control), or
• Pet screen (durability)

Upper panels:

• 18/14 (airflow)

👉 This gives you the best balance of airflow, protection, and durability.

Real-life decision guide

• Choose 18/14 → if you want airflow and comfort
• Choose 20x20 → if bugs are your biggest problem
• Choose Florida glass → if you want privacy and cleanliness
• Choose shade screen → if heat and sun are the issue
• Choose super screen → if you want long-term durability
• Choose pet screen → if you have pets damaging screens

Cost differences

20x20: roughly 10–15% more than 18/14.

Specialty screens (super, pet, shade, Florida glass): higher cost depending on material.

👉 Over time, the right choice can save money in repairs and improve comfort daily.