A torn or bent fly screen is one of those jobs that sits on the list for months. Then summer arrives, the mosquitoes find the gap, and every window stays shut. If you are looking at window screens in Western Sydney, this guide explains when old screens need replacing, how to choose between fibreglass and stainless steel mesh, and what to check before you book a measure.
Why off-the-shelf window screens often don’t fit
Hardware stores sell screen kits in standard sizes, but many windows aren’t standard. Older homes in particular have frames that have moved slightly over the years, or windows made in sizes nobody stocks any more. A screen that is even a few millimetres short leaves a gap at the side or the bottom, and that is all a mosquito needs.
A made-to-measure screen is cut to the actual opening. We measure each window, make the screen in our own factory at Glendenning and fit it with our own team, so the frame sits snugly in the window channel with no gaps.
Signs your window screens need replacing
Some problems are worth fixing early, before they get worse. Look for:
- Holes or tears in the mesh. Even a small hole lets insects in, and fibreglass mesh tends to tear further once it starts.
- Bent or twisted frames. A frame that no longer sits flat leaves gaps around the edges and can fall out in the wind.
- Sagging or loose mesh. If the mesh has pulled away from the spline, it will keep loosening.
- Missing screens. Screens lost during painting, renovating or moving house are very common.
- Brittle, faded mesh. Mesh on west-facing windows takes a lot of afternoon sun and can become brittle over time.
Whether the mesh is torn or the frame is bent or the wrong size, a new made-to-measure screen gives you a proper fit again. We make replacements for old, bent and torn screens as well as screens for new windows.
Fibreglass or stainless steel mesh?
The mesh is the biggest decision you will make, and the right choice can differ from room to room.
Fibreglass mesh
Fibreglass is the most common choice for window screens. It is affordable, light and easy to see through, so it suits bedrooms, living areas and any window where you want a clear view and good airflow.
Stainless steel mesh
Stainless steel mesh is stronger and lasts longer. It is a good choice where screens get knocked about, such as windows near a pet’s favourite spot, ground-floor windows beside a busy side path, or a laundry window that gets bumped. It holds its shape better than fibreglass and is harder for claws to damage.
Many homes use a mix: fibreglass for most windows, and stainless steel on the windows and doors that take the most wear. If you aren’t sure, you are welcome to visit our Glendenning factory and see the mesh samples in person. We are open Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm and Saturday 8am to 2pm.
A fly screen is built to keep insects out, not people. If you want security on a ground-floor window or a back door as well, read our guide to choosing between a security door and a fly screen.
Matching your window frames
Window screens are part of how the house looks from the street, so the frame colour matters. We powder coat screen frames in the Dulux powder-coat range, so they can match your existing window frames, whether they are white, black, a bronze tone or something less common. Bring a photo of your windows, or a removed screen if you have one, and we can help you match it.
If you are replacing the windows themselves, it makes sense to order screens at the same time so the frames, colour and fit all line up. Our aluminium windows page covers the window styles we make.
Window screens and child safety
It is worth knowing that a standard fly screen is designed to keep insects out. It is not designed to hold the weight of a child leaning or pushing on it, so it should never be relied on to stop a fall.
NSW Planning has guidance on window safety. It explains that some windows in apartments covered by strata schemes, and bedroom windows in newer homes, need a safety device that limits the opening to less than 125mm where the floor is 2m or more above the ground outside. If you have young children, read the guidance and keep furniture away from windows they could climb to.
What to check before you book a measure
A little preparation makes the measure quicker and helps us give you an accurate quote:
- Count the windows. Note which rooms need screens and whether any windows need new screens rather than replacements.
- Note the window type. Sliding and awning windows are screened differently, so let us know what you have.
- Take photos. A photo of each window, inside and out, helps us talk through options before we arrive.
- Decide on the mesh. Think about where fibreglass will do and where stainless steel is worth it.
- Check for doors too. If your sliding door or laundry door screen is also worn, it is easier to do everything in one visit.
Areas we service
We make and install window screens from our factory in Glendenning, which sits between the M4 and the M7. That puts most of Western Sydney and the Hills District close by, including Mount Druitt, Blacktown, Penrith, Parramatta, Castle Hill, Rouse Hill and Kellyville. See the full list of areas we service, or call us if you aren’t sure whether we cover your suburb.
We have been making screens, windows and doors since 2007. We supply and install every screen, so the screen we measure is the screen we make and fit.
Window screen FAQ
Can you make screens for my existing windows?
Yes. We measure your existing aluminium windows and make screens to fit, including replacements for old, bent or torn screens.
Should I choose fibreglass or stainless steel mesh?
Fibreglass is affordable and easy to see through, which suits most windows. Stainless steel is stronger and lasts longer, which helps with pets and windows that get bumped.
Can the screen frames match my window colour?
Yes. Frames are powder coated in the Dulux powder-coat range, so they can match your existing window frames.
Do you sell screens for me to fit myself?
No. We supply and install, so every screen is measured, made and fitted by our own team.
Will a fly screen stop a child falling from a window?
No. Fly screens are designed to keep insects out and are not built to hold a child’s weight. See the NSW Planning window safety guidance for information on window safety devices.
Get your window screens sorted
Request a free measure and quote or call us on 1800 793 946.
