Screens and meshes are commonly used to control what can go in and out of a window, and large screens and mesh nets can be used to protect an outdoor area from unwanted insects. Most American homes have screens made of plastic or metal wires on their windows, and for good reason. Mesh screen fabric can allow breezes, sunlight, and sound to pass through, but these screens and their flat spline sealant will prevent larger objects such as insects or birds from getting through. Flat spline, meanwhile, is the vinyl, ribbon-like material used to seal a screen into its frame, and flat spline should be replaced when damaged so that the screen won’t fall out. Good flat spline can not only keep mesh screens in place, but also prevent gaps from forming that could allow insects to get through. A homeowner might also find flat spline for sale at a local hardware store if they need some. And what about a bug screen for patio activities?
Screens on the Windows
As mentioned above, many windows in American homes have metal or plastic screen meshes in them, and this screen is distinct from the window itself. In short, the window can be raised or lowered as desired, but the screen stays in place unless moved manually. This screen allows a person to admit a fresh breeze and outdoor scents without allowing unwanted extras like wasps or mosquitoes to get in. These screens have fine enough holes so that these insects (and certainly larger objects) can’t gain admittance into a room or the house at large, so long as there are no holes or rips. This can be especially useful during spring or summer, when the homeowner may want a nice breeze to get into the home but not a stray wasp or houseflies. A homeowner may want to often inspect their screens on the windows to make sure that there are no rips or tears, and if they find some, they may visit a local hardware store to get new flat spine or screens. This simple maintenance can keep windows secure.
Meshes on a Large Scale
While most homes certainly have screen meshes in place on their windows, some properties may also have large screen meshes draped around their back patio or porch for protection on a larger scale. Many Americans have a wooden back patio or deck where they like to relax, cook, or have an outdoor party or meal, and this is a fine example of landscaping to enjoy in spring and summer. The problem is that some uninvited guests may show up too, ranging from flies to wasps to bees and mosquitoes, and these insects may soon ruin any party. At best, they are obnoxious and unsanitary, and no one wants flies landing on their food or getting drowned in their drinks. At worst, intruding insects can be a health hazard, as wasp and hornet stings are painful and some people may be highly allergic to them. In fact, mosquitoes are known for carrying a number of dangerous contagions when they bite and draw blood. The blood loss is negligible, but mosquitoes may transmit viruses or even malaria (deadly microscopic parasites) into their hosts. Many measures are taken to control local mosquito populations around the world, and in many parts of Africa, for example, hotel rooms have mosquito nets draped around the beds as a matter of course.
In the United States and similar nations, good backyard landscaping means insect control. Unwanted flying insects are easily kept at bay when nets and meshes are draped from poles, the home’s roof, or anything else to keep them in shape, like a tent. And like with window screens, these larger nets and screens should be checked regularly for holes or rips that might allow wildlife to get through. The owner may opt to have these holes sewn up, and in some cases, buying a new net may be the best option. Finally, homeowners with a private pool may want to install a retractable pool screen to keep out wildlife, falling leaves or acorns, and intruding people or animals. Solid screens can also block sunlight and prevent water from evaporating too fast in spring and summer.