A retractable screen door is a practical and discreet approach to keeping insects at bay. Popular for its aesthetic appeal and efficient use of space, this door design is also known to command a higher cost. If you are trying to balance quality and affordability while ensuring your family’s comfort, you may wonder ‘are retractable screen doors worth it?’
Like other screen door solutions, retractable screen doors come with their own unique set of advantages and considerations. As manufacturers and suppliers of fly screens on the Gold Coast and Tweed Heads region since the 1980s, Goldco® Security is extensively experienced in providing stylish and effective screen doors. We can answer questions like “are retractable screen doors worth it?” and provide you with the perfect screen door solution for your home.
What are retractable screen doors?
The key to the definition is in the word “retractable”. These aesthetically appealing and discreet insect screens roll or fold back into a canister when not in use. They disappear from your sight completely, leaving unspoilt views of the outside world. Retractable screens are ideal for doors that are difficult to fit typical screens, such as bi-fold or French doors.
Types of retractable screen doors
There are two main types of retractable screens used for doors and windows:
- Smooth (or roller / flat mesh) are very similar to roller blinds. The screen rolls into a canister mounted on the door frame when not in use.
- Pleated screens fold neatly into themselves when retracted. They feature mesh that folds in a concertina / accordion style when not in use.
Advantages and considerations of retractable screen doors
Some factors to consider when assessing whether retractable screen doors are right for your house include:
Advantages:
- Allows fresh air and ventilation while keeping bugs at bay.
- Provides a clear view of the outdoors due to no frames like conventional doors
- Available in different mesh types
- Standard Patio: For general insect protection.
- Pet-Lite: A heavy-duty mesh up to 10 times stronger than standard mesh to withstand pets.
- Sandfly: A finer mesh designed to keep out tiny biting insects like midge
- Are specifically engineered for “difficult” openings including bi-fold doors, stacking doors, French doors, and even pillarless corner openings where two screens meet at a 90-degree angle without a center post.
Considerations:
- Retractable screens are more expensive than traditional screen doors.
- Compared to fixed doors, retractable screen doors can offer lower levels of protection against forced entry.
- Due to their clear view, retractable screens tend to be walked into more frequently compared to traditional screen doors.
Are retractable screen doors worth it?
For the average Queensland and Tweed Heads homeowner, retractable screens are generally considered a worthwhile investment for those seeking a balance between aesthetic appeal and functional insect protection, particularly for large or non-standard openings. These may include bi-fold doors, stacking doors where sliding flyscreens can not easily be added, French doors, and pillarless corner openings where two screens meet at a 90-degree angle without a center post.
As they retract into slim cassettes that can be colour-matched to existing door or window frames, customers frequently praise their ability to “disappear” when not in use, preserving views and architectural lines.
Goldco® Security’s retractable screen doors
Are you still wondering ‘are retractable screen doors worth it?’ Goldco® Security is a leading, customer-focused company with a passion for integrity, sustainability, innovation and excellence in all we do. If you are in the Gold Coast or Tweed Heads region, we can provide you with the perfect retractable screen door for your home.
Goldco® Security offers a range of locally manufactured solutions including fly screen doors and fly screen windows. We focus not only on outstanding products but on strong customer service, professional-quality installation and after-sales support.
Do you want to know more about how retractable screen doors are worth it or have another question in mind? Call Goldco® Security on (07) 5572 2628 or send us an e-mail for an obligation-free quote.