We are enjoying the peak summer season now but before we know it, it will be time for winter. It is important that you protect and maintain your window screens during the summer season so that they offer maximum protection and functionality.

Here are some tips that can help you maintain your window screens during the winter months.

Removing Window Screens
One of the most important decisions when it comes to screen maintenance is to figure out whether you will leave the solar screens on your windows for the duration of the cold season or whether you will take them off and store them. Both of these things have their benefits.

Keeping the window screen on can help with your home’s energy efficiency.  Removing them will allow the natural sunlight to illuminate and warm your home during the coldest and darkest days of the year.  If you use solar screens and other window screens to reduce the sun’s glare coming into your home, it can be a good idea to remove them during the winter season. You can also remove them to protect them from the damaging effects of winter storms.

In the end, it is up to you to decide if it is better for your home to remove the window screens or keep them on.

Replacing Screens
Winter can also be a great time to check your window screens for holes, rips, and other damage. If the damage is small, we at Gilbert Screen may be able to repair it. However, if there is extensive damage, it is a smart idea to replace your window screens.

If you have decided to replace your window screen, you should consider upgrading them to a higher quality screen material that can give you more benefits.

Cleaning Screens
Since screens perform a protective purpose, they can become dirty. When we open our windows, dirt and grime can lodge in the screens. That is why it is important that you regularly clean your window screens to increase visibility.

Fall can be a great time to clean your window screens as there is not much use for screens in cooler weather.

Cleaning your window screen is easy enough for us. We can remove the screen from the window frame and gently vacuum your screen. We will then use a mild detergent and some water to wash the screen gently and then rinse it. The screens will be allowed to dry fully before we install them.

Winterize Screen Enclosures
Depending on how the enclosure is constructed, you will need to winterize it in different ways. We recommend that you install tempered or reinforced glass in place of your window screens. These glass panels can withstand the wear and tear of the cold season.

If you do not want to add tempered glass to the enclosure, remove all furniture and objects that could become damaged due to moisture, winds, and the cold.

Do you have more questions on how to winterize your window screen and keep them maintained so they perform optimally throughout the year? Reach out to Gilbert Screens today and we can help you solve all your window and door screen problems.

Tinted windows are undoubtedly the latest trend in the field of residential and commercial design, and with good reason. Covering windows with shaded sheets significantly adds to a building's aesthetic appeal while keeping its occupants protected from the sun's harmful UV radiation. In today's world, almost everyone knows how dangerous prolonged exposure to sunlight can be, which is why window films are nothing short of a godsend. They block harmful UV radiation from entering the premises of an estate, considerably reducing the chances of dermatological infections in people.

Addressing the Misconception

Despite the compelling benefits of putting up window tints, some people choose not to do it because they believe cleaning and maintaining UV films will be a tall order. Luckily that's just a misconception. Cleaning tinted windows is not like casting a spell or following a ritual that requires you to fetch saccharine water from a spring sequestered in the woods or use a potion curated by a psychic; it's a pretty straightforward process with just a few caveats that you need to consider. If you promise to do that, you can scrub your tinted windows clean without trouble. Here's a quick guide on how to clean tinted windows without scraping the film off.

Choose Your Cleaner Wisely

The most crucial factor to consider when cleaning windows-and not just tinted, any windows, is the supplies you use. Most window cleaners contain ammonia or other harsh chemicals that can damage a window or, worse, affect your health. Therefore, you need to pick out the cleaning solution for your windows carefully. If you are not sure about a brand or product, look at the label and read the ingredients. Once you're sure that it doesn't contain any harmful compounds, only then buy it.

Aside from the liquid cleaner, you need to be careful with the tools you choose. For tinted windows, sharp blade squeegees, steel scrubbers, newspapers, or even paper towels are not suitable for scrubbing because they can leave scratches over the films or even cause them to peel off.

Use A Homemade Solution.

To avoid accidentally buying ammonia-based cleaner, make one at home. A homemade cleaner is not only safer but also more effective. Here is a quick and easy recipe

• 2 cups of distilled Water
• 3 tablespoons of white vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon of liquid dish soap (mild)

Mix all the ingredients well and pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray the homemade solution on the windows you wish to clean, then clean with a fluff-free microfiber cloth. Doing so will loosen up the accumulated dirt. Next, use a rubber squeegee to wipe away the soapy water. Repeat the process if need be. Once all the grime is gone, rinse your windows with fresh and clean distilled water, and lastly, wipe with the squeegee.

The Takeaway

Now, that wasn't so hard, was it? Clean your windows regularly to increase their functionality and lifespan. But remember to be gentle with the cleaning; you don't have to scrub the windows like your life depends on it!

Your window screens play an important role that you may not realize just yet. Homeowners only understand how vital window screens are when the window screens stop working. They are additional mesh screens installed on the inner or the outer side of the windows. They keep dust, dirt, and insects out of your home. Some newer versions of window screens can even block the sun's UV rays from entering your home.

However, window screens are delicate structures that need extra care and maintenance. You may not realize that your window screens have gotten old and inefficient easily, but some signs can indicate that you need new window screens. Let's see what these signs are.

1. Screens Appear Shinier

Your window screens are not made to last forever. They'll lose their efficiency sooner or later. Since your window screens are exposed to external weather elements around the clock, they're highly prone to damage. One of the signs that your window screens have aged and you need to get new ones is that your existing screens will appear shinier. They'll lose their original matte appearance and appear shinier than how they looked first.

2. Windows Don't Open or Close Smoothly

Window screens are installed such that they don't hinder the window operation. You should be able to open and close your windows just like you would without the screens in place. However, if you notice any difficulty in opening or closing the windows, you need to check what's causing the problem. If the window-related issues are overruled, it's probably your old and worn-out window screens that are causing the problem.

3. Bugs Inside Your Home

Window screens are meant to keep the bugs and insects out of your home. But if you've started to notice annoying bugs hovering around your living space, the chances that your window screens are damaged are high. They may have torn from the corner that isn't immediately visible. If that's the case, you need to get new window screens right away!

4.     Visible Signs of Damage

Apart from subtle signs of damage, old and worn-out window screens may display visible signs of damage like tears in the mesh, dust particles filling up and blocking the mesh, or the screen is breaking away from its frame. If you see any of these in your window screens, know that it's time to bid goodbye to your existing window screens and get new ones soon.

5.     Dust On Your Furniture

Just like window screens are supposed to keep the bugs away, they also keep dust and dirt out. Too much dust on your tabletops and other furniture is a sign that the window screens aren't keeping the dust out efficiently. To fix this problem, you need to consider getting new window screens.

Summary

Window screens are a great investment. They offer multiple benefits for homeowners. But despite this, not many homeowners give attention to the upkeep of window screens, and as a result, their window screens give way sooner than later. If you detect signs of damage in your window screens, you should get in touch with window professionals to get new window screens at your earliest to continue enjoying its benefits!

Patio screen enclosures are gaining popularity every day, and this is mainly because they provide homeowners with tons of benefits. Here is why you need patio screen enclosures.

Screen Enclosures Keep Insects Out

While being outdoors can be loads of fun, insects such as flies, mosquitos, ticks, and gnats can turn even the sunniest, most charming day into a horribly frustrating one.

Not only is it really annoying to shoo away the flies, sometimes, you will end up with horrible mosquito bites! In fact, many people avoid sitting outside on their patios for this very reason – to prevent themselves from getting bitten.

While you can always apply insect repellent on your body, they often smell horrible and aren’t usually all that effective either.

A screen enclosure, on the other hand, can protect you from any unwanted pests and insects! What could be better?

Protection From The Elements


This one’s obvious. In fact, this is one of the main reasons a patio screen enclosure is even used.  Whether the day is sunny, dusty, or windy, it doesn’t matter if you have a patio screen enclosure. Your screen will keep you protected from any of the harsh elements so that you can sit outside any day you choose!

Fewer Maintenance Requirements

A patio is beautiful, especially during summertime, but it can prove to be extremely high maintenance too. Patio enclosures are useful because they prevent branches, debris, and all sorts of leaves from actually entering your patio, which means that you won’t need to spend a lot of time cleaning the patio.

Additionally, your patio enclosure can prevent any furniture you might have in the patio from fading away due to excessive sun exposure. This means you will end up spending a lot less on patio maintenance!


Offers The Best Of Everything

Often, people want to sit outside and soak up some sun, but at the same time, they avoid going outdoors because of all the hassles involved, such as bad weather, pests, etc.

Screen enclosures are great because they give you the option of enjoying the best of everything – indoors and outdoors!

Look Great!

Screen enclosures don’t typically come in a standard size or design. There are many different ones you can choose from, in fact, many of which can actually contribute to the visual appeal of your home!

If you are interested in enclosing your patio, porch, or pool, call Gilbert Screens at ​480-418-1128​ and let us help you!

We deal in window screens, sunscreens, patio screens, and all other types of screen enclosures, and no one does screens better than us!

Your home’s security door isn’t made to last forever, no matter how high quality it is. There will come a point when you have to get it replaced. An old security door is a major threat to the safety of your loved ones and your belongings. While a door may look like it’s in pretty good shape, there are some signs that can help you figure out if it needs to be replaced.
If you’re concerned about your home’s safety and security and are looking for some solid signs that are a sure-shot way of telling that it’s time to replace your security door, you’ve come to the right place. Some of these signs have been listed down below:

1.     The Latch Isn’t Working

If the security door doesn’t latch properly, it might indicate that the door has gotten misaligned or was installed poorly. The latch problem might be due to loose hinges. Having a professional come to inspect the door might help you understand the issue better. Whatever the reason is, it puts your property at a serious security risk. If your security door isn’t latching correctly, it might be the right time to replace your security door.

2.     Your Security Door Slams

If you observe that your security door is closing too quickly or slams, it might be due to a broken component like a door closer. It is quite a common problem with security doors. Simply replacing the door closer might solve the problem. However, if it doesn’t, the problem might be something else. To keep yourself and your loved ones safe and sound, it is best to get your security door replaced at the right time before you’re left with anything but regret.

3.     Lock Issues

Not many people double-check if their doors are locked after they turn the key, probably because they assume it must be locked. However, sometimes, there might be lock issues with your security door. When that happens, your door won’t be locked even if you lock it. It means that your house stands unsecured while you’re away or fast asleep. If that is the case with your security door’s lock, you need to either get the lock replaced or change the door altogether right away. It isn’t something you can wait on.

4.     Damaged Door

Apart from all the subtle signs, one of the most obvious signs that you need to replace your security door is when it starts to show visible signs of damage. It could be rust and corrosion in the case of metal doors and deterioration in the case of wooden doors. Damaged doors not only impact the integrity and strength of a security door, but they also look unappealing and even ugly!

Summary

Security doors are valuable as long as they’re serving their purpose well. If they fail to offer the security and safety that you want, they’re no better than regular home doors. It is wise to replace your security door in time to save yourself from any unforeseen troubles in the future. A security door professional can help you choose a security door that best suits your budget and needs.

Retractable screen doors have been around for years. They look attractive and modern. The feature of retractable screen doors that make them such a popular choice is that they’re highly customizable. With a retractable screen door in place, you can enjoy a seamless, indoor to outdoor transition. If you’re planning to install retractable screen doors to your house but want to be really sure before investing, you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve listed down the many benefits of retractable screen doors that are sure to convince you to get one for your home today!

1.     They’re Retractable

The first benefit of retractable screen doors is that they’re retractable, of course. They’ll be out of the way and out of sight in no time when you don’t need them. For example, if you’ve installed a retractable screen door on your terrace entrance and you wish to enjoy a freeway to your terrace from your bedroom when the weather is extremely pleasant, you can simply roll the door away, and voila! The screen door is nowhere to be seen! If you need some privacy, all you’ve to do is roll them open, and you’re done. It’s that simple with retractable screen doors!

2.     Easy to Clean

One of the biggest benefits of retractable screen doors is that they’re quite easy to clean. You don’t have to worry about getting any specific cleaning products for them. The regular household cleaning supplies are good enough. It means you don’t have to spend money on cleaning supplies or any specialized cleaning services. You can do it yourself quite easily.

3.     Keeps Insects Out

One of the many reasons why people install retractable screen doors in the first place is to keep their house insect-free. With a retractable screen door in place, you can leave the doors open for ventilation and rest assured that no flies, mosquitoes, or rats will enter your home. You can enjoy the fresh breeze and still not worry about any blood-sucking nuisance ruining your mood!

4.     Reduced Energy Bills

During the summers, retractable screen doors keep your house well ventilated. During the winters, they increase the heat gain by 50% and keep your home warmer. In short, they can keep your home comfortably cool or warm in summers and winters. When the house isn’t too hot or too cold, the cooling and heating system doesn’t have to work as hard, and thus, the energy bills are greatly reduced.

5.     Keeps Your House Dust-Free

If you’re allergic to dust and pollen, retractable screens doors are what you should get. They keep dust and pollen grains out of your house while ensuring a flow of fresh air in your home. Unlike the traditional doors that are either open or close, you can enjoy the feel of an open door without having to deal with any dust issues that are associated with open doors. How cool is that?

Summary

Retractable screen doors are a great addition to your home, especially if you want your home to feel fresh and airy all the time. Hire screen door specialists and get the best quality retractable screen doors installed in your home.

We all know how important it is to clean the windows of our home regularly. Clean windows improve the curb appeal and the aesthetics of your home, enhance the quality of outdoor views, and give an overall sense of cleanliness. But did you know that window screen cleaning is equally important?
Most houses have window screens installed to keep dust and insects out while the windows are open. Many people clean their windows but often miss out on the cleaning of window screens. The cleaning of window screens is as important as cleaning the windows. There are numerous benefits of keeping up with window screen cleaning which we’ve listed down below:

1.     Better Air Quality

Most people prefer keeping their windows open when the weather turns warmer to let the fresh air in. When the window screens are dusty and dirty, the air does not stay fresh. The dust in the window screens is blown into the house with the wind, affecting the quality of air adversely. Window screen cleaning is an important chore that shouldn’t be missed out. When the window screens are clean, the air that comes inside your house is cleaner and fresher.

2.     Cleaner Homes

As mentioned above, the dust in window screens is blown inside your home with the wind that makes the interior dusty. No matter you many times you vacuum the floors and dust-off the couches, they continue to look dirty. Regular window screen cleaning can help you cut down on time you spend cleaning your home.

3.     Keeps Your Windows In Good Shape

The dirtier the window screen is, the shorter is its lifespan. Window screens are exposed to dirt, sap, salts, and other types of bio-matter that get deposited on the screens and cause the screens to wear out over time. That is not it. The condition of the window screens affects the condition of your windows.

When the rainwater hits the window screens, it combines with acidic dirt that has accumulated on the screens. This water than splatters on the windows. The grimy rainwater damages the windows significantly. With regular window screen cleaning, your windows will be protected from damage and will stay in good shape!

4.     Better Visibility

No matter how clean your windows are, the view will be marred if the window screens aren’t clean. Regular window screen cleaning provides better visibility and enhances the outdoor view.

5.     Improved Aesthetics

Just like clean windows can affect the overall appearance of your home, window screens can do so too. Dirty window screens are a visual turn-off. Regular window screen cleaning will make your home look cleaner and hence, will improve the overall aesthetics.

Summary

Window screen cleaning is an essential home chore to ensure that the air feels fresh, your home stays cleaner, and your windows retain their best form. In case it’s too late and your window screens are already too-dirty to be cleaned, contact a window screen expert and get new window screens installed right away!

The installation of security doors is a great way to make your home a secure place. Security doors help prevent forced entry into your home and keep you tension free even when you’re going away for a long weekend. However, the purpose of a security door will only be served if you choose the right quality product.
Security doors are available in different materials with varying quality grades. Before you make the purchase, you have to make sure that you’re investing in the best quality security door. We have listed down some useful tips that will help you make the right decision.

1.     Material

Different materials offer different levels of security. Security doors made of steel provide the highest degree of security as they are the strongest. The best quality steel doors are often made of steel. However, security doors made of steel are not aesthetically pleasing. Aluminum security doors are an option for people for whom both security and aesthetics are important.

2.     Corrosion Proof

One of the many things that you should consider before investing in any security door is to evaluate if the security door is corrosion proof. Steel doors are often treated to make them resistant to corrosion, which ensures that they last for a very long time. The right security door will be the one that comes with the best value for money.

3.     Site of Manufacture

Another useful tip that will help you make the right decision is to check where the security door has been manufactured. Like everything else, your security door will need regular maintenance checks, if the door you’re opting for has been manufactured overseas, getting it inspected and repaired when the need arises can become a hassle. Therefore, the right security door will be the one whose service and maintenance isn’t a challenge.

4.     Locks

A security door without proper locks is of no real use. The right security door will have high-quality locks from well-reputed brands. If a company is reluctant to share information about the brand of locks, consider it a red flag and look for other options.

5.     Hinges

Hinges form an important component of any door. The right security door will have the right type of hinges that keep the door moving swiftly over a long period of time. The wrong and non-durable types of hinges, such as timber door butt hinges on steel security doors, are a no-go!

6.     Warranty

If a security door comes with a good warranty, it is a validation of quality in itself. It shows that the company is willing to take responsibility in case anything goes wrong with the performance of the door. The right security door will come with a warranty that is at least 12 months! You should never invest your money for a security door that comes with less than 1s months of warranty.

Summary

Choosing the right security door for your home is not difficult. All you have to do is ensure that you’re opting for a security door that is made from durable material, has the right locks and hinges, comes with a good warranty, and has a locally-available service provider. 

Patios are the best place to sit with your family and enjoy some relaxing family time. Sitting outdoors is specifically more pleasant in summers, where you want to enjoy the cool summer breeze. However, sitting outdoors in summers is associated with certain dangerous natural elements that you may not like being exposed to, such as mosquitoes, UV rays of the sun, summer storms, etc.
This is where patio screen enclosures step in. If you’re looking for ways to upgrade your patio, consider getting these screen enclosures installed in your patio. If you want to know what makes the installation of patio screens worthwhile, continue reading this blog post.

1.     Best of Both Worlds

Patio screen enclosures create a space that is neither indoors, not outdoors. It is the perfect place for you if you want to take in whatever nature has to offer, all the while keeping yourself protected from all harmful, natural elements.

2.     Keeps Annoying Insects Out

One of the reasons why people prefer to stay indoors most of the time is the misery that insects like flies, mosquitoes, and other bugs can cause. It is extremely annoying to have insects buzzing in your ears and flying around your face. This is not even taking into account the fact that mosquito bites can cause illnesses like malaria. Having screen enclosures installed for your patio is going to keep these insects and bugs out, and you will get a chance to enjoy an outdoor space without having to deal with these annoying natural elements.

3.     Reduced Maintenance Needs

A patio is a lovely part of your house. However, since it is exposed to their environment, you need to put in a lot of hard work to keep it looking lovely. Installing patio screen enclosures prevents dirt, leaves, and debris from entering your patio, making sure that your patio stays neat, clean, and appealing, just like you want it to!

4.     Weather Protection

Installing patio screen enclosures enable you to continue with your outdoor parties even if the weather turns bad. With these screen enclosures, you will get to enjoy the feel of an outdoor party without actually being under the open sky!

5.     Adds Visual Appeal

Your patio looks cozier with patio screen enclosures. When you cover your patio with screens that let you enjoy nature without any hindrance, it feels a lot warmer and welcoming. Not to forget the enhanced visual appeal of your house!

6.     Increased Value of Your Property

​Enclosed patios add extra square footage to your home. Not only does it enable you to expand your living space, but it also gives you an excellent return on investment. Houses with enclosed patios are priced higher in the market! If you want to increase the value of your home, installing patio screen enclosures is a cost-effective way of doing it.

Summary

Patio screen enclosures are the new big thing for all the right reasons. They not only let you enjoy the outdoors but also keep you protected from natural elements that you would have otherwise been exposed to.  They add visual appeal and increase the value of your property as well, which makes them worth the investment.