How to Mount Solar Screens Correctly

House windows come in different shapes and sizes.
Installing a sunscreen on your windows can be a tricky task. You need to measure your windows accurately first and make sure the screen fits.
A solar screen that doesn’t fit right or an improperly installed one will get damaged pretty fast.
If you select the right type of solar screen mounting hardware for your window, you can save yourself a lot of money.

Clean the Windows First!
Before you install a solar screen, it’s important to clean the windows thoroughly. The surface needs to be smooth and clean to allow the sunscreen to adhere properly. Use cleaning wipes, rubbing alcohol or a soapy cloth to clean the windows and window frame.

What Can You Use to Mount Solar Screens?

Casement Clips
These are used most frequently to install solar screens. It’s better to use metal clips instead of plastic ones as they’re more durable. They will come with hex-head screws which will be drilled into the window through the clip.

Suitable for

• Aluminum windows
• Vinyl windows

Advantages of Using Casement Clips

• Easy to install
• Easy to remove as they come with rotatable tabs
• There’s no need to alter the solar screen frames

Disadvantages of Using Casement Clips

• Need to be drilled into the window
• Will leave tiny holes in the window frame

3M Dual Lock
This is a double-sided tape of sorts used to mount sunscreens on to windows. Most sunscreens will now come with a 3M dual lock. They function like Velcro and can be separated and reunited as many times as you like.

Suitable for

• All window types

Advantages of Using 3M Dual Lock

• Versatile
• Resilient: can withstand extremes of temperatures
• Hidden from view

Disadvantages of Using 3M Dual Lock

• Expensive
• Leaves a gap between the sunscreen and window for dusts and insects

Leaf Springs
These are curved metal springs that can secure a solar screen from one side. There are two types of leaf springs: tension type and slide in leaf springs. Leaf springs aren’t used commonly to install sunscreens nowadays.

Suitable for

• Window casements with tracks only

Advantages of Using Leaf Springs

• Cheap
• Cover the window fully
• Easy to remove
• Great for keeping bugs out

Disadvantages of Using Leaf Springs

• Only suitable for windows with channels or tracks

Brick Clips
These are metallic clips used to secure solar screens in place on windows of brick homes.

Suitable for

• Windows with brick surround

Advantages of Using Brick Clips

• No need to alter the solar screen
• No drilling required

Disadvantages of Using Brick Clips

• Can only be used with windows surrounded by bricks or stone
• Cannot be removed quickly

Summary:
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Mounting a sunscreen properly on a window surface requires precision. There are many types of mounting hardware to choose from depending on your window. Commonly used ones are casement clips, 3M dual lock and brick clips.