Retractable Screens Are Easy To Install

James Dulley
Wed, 18 Feb 2026 21:00:00 -0800
Lifestyle

Dear James: It is a hassle putting up and taking down window screens. Do retractable window screens block bugs as well, and are there larger ones to replace screen doors? — Brooke H.

Dear Brooke: When you don't need fresh air ventilation during winter and want a clear outdoor view, having no window screens is good. Screening actually blocks more of the view and light than most people realize. Some of the durable fiberglass screens can block as much as 30% of the view.

During the summer when you are running your air conditioner, the shading effect from the screens can be welcomed. If your screens are indoors, as on casement windows, much of the glare will be reduced. If your screens are outdoors, as on other types of windows, the screens will also block some of the sun's heat.
Updated: Thu Feb 19, 2026

Dear James: It is a hassle putting up and taking down window screens. Do retractable window screens block bugs as well, and are there larger ones to replace screen doors? — Brooke H.

Dear Brooke: When you don't need fresh air ventilation during winter and want a clear outdoor view, having no window screens is good. Screening actually blocks more of the view and light than most people realize. Some of the durable fiberglass screens can block as much as 30% of the view.

During the summer when you are running your air conditioner, the shading effect from the screens can be welcomed. If your screens are indoors, as on casement windows, much of the glare will be reduced. If your screens are outdoors, as on other types of windows, the screens will also block some of the sun's heat.

Retractable screens would be an excellent and attractive option for your windows. When they are retracted, the screen totally disappears. When you want screens, you just pull it out and you have window screens in about five seconds. Since they will be retracted much of the time, they will not need much cleaning.

The retractable screen kits made for windows have a narrow housing into which the screen retracts. This housing is mounted at the top of the window opening, so it is often totally hidden by the curtains or valance.

The housing is spring-loaded so the screen rolls into it quickly. The spring also keeps the proper tension on the screen when it is opened over the window. The exposed edge of the screen has some type of mechanical or magnetic latch to hold it open over the window. The sides of the screen slide in tracks so no insects can get indoors.

Retractable screen kits are also available for doors, especially sliding glass patio doors where a clear view is desirable. When installed on doors, the housing is mounted vertically on the side of the door opening.

You may be able to find retractable screen kits for windows and doors at your local home center store. If not, try contacting some of these manufacturers for local sources: Eclipse Technologies (877-532-5477), Mirage/Alco Ventures (800-667-2526) and Tri-State Retractable Screens (888-742-6866).

It is a fairly easy do-it-yourself project to install a retractable screen kit on either a window or a door. The kit includes every part, even the fasteners, you will need to install the retractable screen.

For window installation, mount the housing in the top of the window opening. If your window opening is considerably out of square, you can flush mount a retractable screen kit on the wall over the window opening. This will require a slightly wider kit. Install the side tracks per the instructions and the job is complete.

For hinged door installation, the housing and pull rail are normally mounted on the same side as the hinges. For sliding glass patio doors, the housing is usually mounted at the end of the fixed glass panel. Since the kits used on doors are large, it is critical that the housing is mounted perfectly vertically. Special shims are available if the door opening jamb is not vertical.