Quick answers.
- 18×14 standard fiberglass is the usual starting mesh and allows more airflow than a tighter weave.
- 20×20 no-see-um is chosen for tiny insects; ask whether it will cover the roof as well as the walls.
- Heavier-duty and pet-resistant meshes cost more and can change airflow. Have the exact product written down.
Four useful starting points.
18×14 standard
The usual pool and patio fiberglass. More airflow than finer mesh.
20×20 no-see-um
Finer weave for tiny insects. Ask where it belongs, including the roof.
Heavier-duty
Stronger mesh for tougher spots. Ask for the exact product and its warranty.
Pet-resistant
Made to resist tears and punctures.
18×14 fiberglass pool and patio mesh
18×14 is the standard fiberglass pool and patio screen, made for large openings, general insect protection, ventilation and visibility. It is a useful baseline when comparing estimates.
20×20 no-see-um mesh
The finer 20×20 weave is designed to keep out most tiny insects. Ask the installer to show you a sample beside standard mesh so you can compare the view and airflow for your enclosure.
Heavier-duty mesh
Stronger mesh products are made for pool and patio use. Ask for the exact product name and its written warranty, since terms vary by product line.
Pet-resistant screen
Pet-resistant mesh is made to resist tears and punctures in pet-contact areas, and it is typically used on patios, doors and windows. Ask which mesh suits lower panels and which is appropriate for your roof spans.
Common Florida screen types, at a glance.
| Type | Typical use | What to ask |
|---|---|---|
| 18×14 standard fiberglass | Everyday pool and patio mesh, more airflow | Confirm it is the product that will actually be installed |
| 20×20 no-see-um | Finer weave for tiny insects | Whether it will be used on walls, the roof, or both, and how airflow changes |
| Heavier-duty mesh | Tougher spots that see more wear | The exact product name and any written warranty |
| Pet-resistant mesh | Lower panels that get paws or claws | Which elevations will use it, and to list it separately in the quote |
Florida pricing guides commonly describe these categories. They are starting points, not a substitute for the specification on your estimate.
Questions worth asking before choosing.
- Which exact brand, product and mesh count will the estimate specify?
- Is the product suitable for each roof, wall and door opening?
- Will a lower pet-contact panel use a different product from the roof?
- Can I compare samples for visibility and small-insect protection?
- Does the existing framing support the selected screen system?
- What does the manufacturer cover, and what does the installer cover?
Bring these to your estimate and choose together.
Screen and safety work together.
Mesh keeps bugs out and lets the breeze in. For pool safety, pair it with supervision and the right barrier for children and pets, and keep the frame in good shape for storm season.
Ask the installer to look at the complete system. For damage to framing, use the repair-versus-rescreen guide and arrange professional assessment.
Read the warranty as a separate document.
Ask about exclusions, product registration, transferability, removal/reinstallation labor and who handles a claim. Ask whether the manufacturer’s limited warranty covers installation labor or storm damage. Put the product name and installer’s separate labor warranty into the signed scope.