What is the difference between fly screens and roll-up screens?
When choosing insect screens, people often struggle to decide between a fly screen and a roll-up screen. Both systems keep insects out, but differ in terms of use, installation, and appearance.
In this overview, we outline the key differences so you can make the right choice for your specific application.
What are fly screens?
Fly screens are fixed, sliding, or hinged systems that are custom-made for a specific window or door opening.
Features:
- always available
- seamlessly integrated into the window frame
- sturdy aluminum construction
- low-maintenance
👉 Perfect for windows that are regularly left open.
What are roller screens?
Roll-up screens are systems in which the mesh is stored in a cassette and rolls out upward or to the side when needed.
Features:
- rollable and flexible
- visible only when in use
- compact cassette
- suitable for a variety of applications
👉 Perfect if you don't want the screen to be visible all the time.
Usage
Fly screens are always in place, whereas roll-up screens are only visible when in use.
Aesthetics
Fly screens are mounted visibly against the window frame and form an integral part of the building’s facade. Roller screens are more discreet: the cassette remains partially visible, while the mesh and mechanism disappear completely when not in use.
Sustainability
High-quality aluminum fly screens are extremely sturdy and suitable for heavy-duty use. Roll-up screens offer greater flexibility and are now built to be both robust and durable, although the moving mechanism requires a bit more attention with heavy-duty use.
Application
Fly screens are ideal for standard applications and long-term use. Roll-up screens, on the other hand, are particularly well-suited for situations where flexibility and an unobstructed view of the outdoors are important.
When should you choose which solution?
👉 Choose fly screens when:
- the window is often open
- if you want a permanent solution
- symmetry and visual integration are important
👉 Choose roll-up screens when:
- you want flexibility
- the screen should not be permanently visible
- the situation is less typical
Fly screens vs. roll-up screens at a glance
| Property | Insect Screens | Roll-up screens |
|---|---|---|
| Placement | Permanently mounted | Retractable into a cassette |
| Visibility | Always visible | Visible only when in use |
| Usage | Always active | Versatile |
| Stability | Very high | High |
| Application | Standard & intensive use | Flexible situations & maintaining visibility |
Can't decide between the two? We'd be happy to help you make the right choice.
Also explore
Other solutions from the Eosol range frequently integrated into projects.
Flyscreen sliding doors
Ideal for large sliding windows
Flyscreen doors
Aluminum hinged doors
Insect Screens
Aluminum fly screens
Cassette Systems
Roll-up screens for windows and doors