It is usually easier to clean a fly screen frame if you can first remove it from the window. Some fly screens are designed to easily detach. A few other screens can be removed with the use of a screwdriver or spanner. Occasionally some fly screen frames are permanently attached to the window or are at least very difficult to remove.
Be careful removing the screen. Older style mesh is easily damaged.
Find an open workspace for cleaning the screens, somewhere that will tolerate water. Outdoors is ideal. Put down some plastic sheeting or a tarpaulin to prevent damage to the screens
Spray the screens with a hose, but do not use too much water pressure. Make sure to spray both sides.
Make a mixture of one part ammonia to three parts water. Or, make some warm water with soap/detergent. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands. Some people like to wear goggles to protect their eyes.
Use a soft bristle brush and ammonia solution to wash the screen. Leave the screen flat on the tarpaulin sheet, and scrub with a circular motion.
After loosening any dirt and debris with the scrubbing you can wipe the surface with a sponge.
Rinse the screen with a hose, and then shake off the loose water.
Allow the screen to air dry. Prop it up so that the air can circulate around the mesh.
Vacuum the screen mesh once a week to prevent dust from building up. A soft bristle attachment for a vacuum is a good option. Else, use a small handheld vacuum cleaner (i.e.: A Dustbuster)
Retractable mesh screens require less cleaning as they can be stored away when not in use.
Information Disclaimer The content of this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be considered a source of professional advice, recommendations, or endorsements. It is not a substitute for seeking expert guidance or making well-informed decisions based on individual circumstances. Although we strive for accuracy and reliability, we cannot guarantee the information's completeness or suitability for all situations. Readers are urged to verify facts, consult experts, and consider their own context before taking actions or decisions based on this content. No warranties, explicit or implied, are provided regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or completeness of the presented information. Relying on this information is at the reader's own discretion and risk. We encourage readers to consult relevant professionals or experts for advice tailored to their specific needs. Neither the author, publisher, nor any affiliated parties will be held responsible for errors, omissions, or damages resulting from the use or reliance on the information in this article.
There are several spaces in the average household where two different surfaces joint together. These spaces may contain a gap that is open to leaking water or moisture.
Common places where this troublesome gap can occur include:
And area where two floors join together.
Where the kitchen tile floor joins to another floor.
Where the bathroom tile floor joins the next room.
Underneath any doorway, especially doors leading outside.
Entrances from patios
Underneath sliding glass window/doors or fly screen doors
Around window frames with or without fly screen frames.
Any window, door, exhaust vent, that needs a fly screen mesh
Water that leaks through a gap in the house can cause long term problems. Water in the structure of the house can cause serious rot and decay, which may damage frames, support structures or other vital parts of the homes. Else, the moisture can lead to mould problems, with some forms of mould being very bad for health.
Sealing Gaps
The easy and effect way to seal gaps is with silicone. This can be applied with a caulking gun. Silicone is available in white, black, brown or several other colours; choose a colour that is inconspicuous, blending in with the surroundings. The caulking guns are fairly cheap at hardware stores.
Some areas are best filled with hard materials like wood filler, putty, builders bog, or Pollyfiller plaster. Again, find a colour that is inconspicuous.
If you need to cover the sealed area there are a few options. A gap between floors can be covered with an edge strip; this also works for many doors. Other areas can sometimes be covered with skirting boards. Also seal the area first; the edge strip or skirting board will not protect against water.
Fly screens are great for keeping pests out while still letting fresh air and sunlight in. Make sure the windows are sealed against moisture to prevent long term damage to the home
Information Disclaimer The content of this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be considered a source of professional advice, recommendations, or endorsements. It is not a substitute for seeking expert guidance or making well-informed decisions based on individual circumstances. Although we strive for accuracy and reliability, we cannot guarantee the information's completeness or suitability for all situations. Readers are urged to verify facts, consult experts, and consider their own context before taking actions or decisions based on this content. No warranties, explicit or implied, are provided regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or completeness of the presented information. Relying on this information is at the reader's own discretion and risk. We encourage readers to consult relevant professionals or experts for advice tailored to their specific needs. Neither the author, publisher, nor any affiliated parties will be held responsible for errors, omissions, or damages resulting from the use or reliance on the information in this article.
The glass in windows will not offer much protection against UV Light.
Our eyes see all the colours of the rainbow. Beyond this visible spectrum of colours is Ultraviolet Light (UV). This is the invisible radiation that causes sunburn on human skin, and the fading of fabrics, paint, and other materials exposed to the sun. It is best to reduce our exposure to UV light as much as possible.
Regular glass windows will remove some UV light. People standing behind a window will receive about half the UV radiation of a person standing outside. But this is only a moderate improvement. We should aim for better results.
UV radiation that comes through windows will steadily cause fading of indoor fabrics, carpet, furniture, upholstery, and paint. This fading damage is permanent and irreversible. In some cases, the fabric can be re-dyed, but the fabric material has still suffered some underlying damage.
Protection against UV
There are two general methods to protect your household contents from UV radiation. One is to block the light out entirely. The other is to let the visible light through while filtering out (most of) the UV. This filtering allows us to make use of the natural light, saving on electricity bills.
Windows can be fitted with UV filter screens. These can remove 95% of the UV. These screens also reduce the heat of sunlight so that the inside of the house will not heat up as much in the Sun. The UV filtering protects carpets and other indoor furnishings. The heat reduction helps keep the house cool, saving on air conditioner costs.
Curtains and UV
Most curtains will not block UV light. The few curtains that do block UV light will make this feature a sales point. Furthermore, many curtain fabrics will fade in UV light. Unless the curtains have UV protection we should fit windows with UV film to prevent damage to curtains and other indoor furnishings.
Flyscreens are almost perfectly effective for removing insects. The flyscreens you have fitted will keep your home inset free for decades. But home windows will still need protection against UV damage and the general weather. Consider shutters for the weather and UV film for the glass window.
Information Disclaimer The content of this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be considered a source of professional advice, recommendations, or endorsements. It is not a substitute for seeking expert guidance or making well-informed decisions based on individual circumstances. Although we strive for accuracy and reliability, we cannot guarantee the information's completeness or suitability for all situations. Readers are urged to verify facts, consult experts, and consider their own context before taking actions or decisions based on this content. No warranties, explicit or implied, are provided regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or completeness of the presented information. Relying on this information is at the reader's own discretion and risk. We encourage readers to consult relevant professionals or experts for advice tailored to their specific needs. Neither the author, publisher, nor any affiliated parties will be held responsible for errors, omissions, or damages resulting from the use or reliance on the information in this article.
Plantations shutters are extremely versatile, keeping homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This versatility stem comes from their dual action design. They work as both opening doors and adjustable flat slatted panels.
As the name implies plantation shutters were originally developed on Southern USA plantations. They were originally fitted to the outside of large plantation homes, both over large windows and doorways. Opening the slats on the shutters allowed the air to circulate during the hot southern weather. Opening the shutter doors allowed the light in.
Though they were originally fitted to the outside of windows many modern plantation shutters are now used inside. Once again they allow air to circulate while keeping out the bright light, a good combination to have during summer. When locked shut they are also very secure.
Modern materials allows shutters to be waterproof. Older plantation shutters were made of wood, which would eventually rot or grow damaged in the sun. But newer materials, like Thermopoly, are not damaged by water and are capable of withstanding fairly harsh weather conditions for decades.
Plantations shutters are the type of fittings that you would want to have custom-made to suit your home. But you can browse the design options online and find the style you like most. Then have this very design applied to your home.
Information Disclaimer The content of this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be considered a source of professional advice, recommendations, or endorsements. It is not a substitute for seeking expert guidance or making well-informed decisions based on individual circumstances. Although we strive for accuracy and reliability, we cannot guarantee the information's completeness or suitability for all situations. Readers are urged to verify facts, consult experts, and consider their own context before taking actions or decisions based on this content. No warranties, explicit or implied, are provided regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or completeness of the presented information. Relying on this information is at the reader's own discretion and risk. We encourage readers to consult relevant professionals or experts for advice tailored to their specific needs. Neither the author, publisher, nor any affiliated parties will be held responsible for errors, omissions, or damages resulting from the use or reliance on the information in this article.
House renovations can change your life. The changes to your home are palpable. The effect this can have on you and your family can be profound.
Watching them work in progress can be exciting. But even just the planning can be thoroughly enjoyable. The agony of choice when it comes to all the possibilities is perhaps the only good agony in life.
The right doors are one critical decision. This is often underestimated.
Doors can:
Add to the space of a room. Double-opening doors can join a room in a way that a single door cannot
Add to the décor. Put a different door there and the look of the room is effectually different.
Large Sliding Doors can open the back of the house onto a porch or backyard. This makes for a great summer entertainment space.
Double glazing on glass doors will save on energy bills.
Fly screen doors will keep insects out.
Glass, flyscreen, or other doors give a room a more open feel.
Flyscreen doors let air circulate, which makes for dirt-cheap cooling in moderately hot weather. Close doors if you use air conditioning.
Security fly screen doors keep our intruders. They do this even as they let in light and allow air to circulate.
Consider what the doors can do to keep children safe inside.
Doors and windows can allow a decent view outside.
You do well to consider a fly Screen, Sydney weather and insects make these a good choice. Fly screen mesh allows the air to circulate while keeping insects at bay. Fly screen doors also offer excellent security protection against intruders when locked.
With all the modern design options there is an appropriate door design to suit your home décor.
Information Disclaimer The content of this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be considered a source of professional advice, recommendations, or endorsements. It is not a substitute for seeking expert guidance or making well-informed decisions based on individual circumstances. Although we strive for accuracy and reliability, we cannot guarantee the information's completeness or suitability for all situations. Readers are urged to verify facts, consult experts, and consider their own context before taking actions or decisions based on this content. No warranties, explicit or implied, are provided regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or completeness of the presented information. Relying on this information is at the reader's own discretion and risk. We encourage readers to consult relevant professionals or experts for advice tailored to their specific needs. Neither the author, publisher, nor any affiliated parties will be held responsible for errors, omissions, or damages resulting from the use or reliance on the information in this article.
Retirement homes and some family homes have elderly relatives. These senior citizens often need supervision and sometimes continual care. They may benefit from some solid home security measures.
Security doors prevent insects and unauthorized personnel from entering the building. They can also be set up to prevent children or elderly residents from leaving. A good security door can give homeowners some peace of mind, knowing that their children and elderly relatives cannot wander away unsupervised.
Homes with the elderly can be the target of some thieves. These thieves try to exploit the mental state of the elderly, entering the house while claiming to be friends, relatives, salespeople, or official investigators. A locked security door keeps these potential thieves out.
Modern security doors can become part of the home décor. There is always a screen door design to sit the home.
It is pleasant to enjoy the sunshine or breeze while indoors. Senior citizens can safely benefit from fresh air and sunshine behind security screen windows. These screens let the air circulate while keeping insects outside. All without interrupting the outside view.
Modern Fly Screen Mesh is designed with enough strength to prevent a child or senior citizen from falling through the window. These are especially important for building with multiple floors or any windows more than two meters above the ground.
Motion-activated light and security cameras are a considerable deterrent to potential intruders. The knowledge that they cannot hide in a dark corner, and that they can be easily identified with security footage will greatly discourage thieves. Motion-activated light can also indicate a child or elderly pensioner accidentally wandering outside.
Information Disclaimer The content of this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be considered a source of professional advice, recommendations, or endorsements. It is not a substitute for seeking expert guidance or making well-informed decisions based on individual circumstances. Although we strive for accuracy and reliability, we cannot guarantee the information's completeness or suitability for all situations. Readers are urged to verify facts, consult experts, and consider their own context before taking actions or decisions based on this content. No warranties, explicit or implied, are provided regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or completeness of the presented information. Relying on this information is at the reader's own discretion and risk. We encourage readers to consult relevant professionals or experts for advice tailored to their specific needs. Neither the author, publisher, nor any affiliated parties will be held responsible for errors, omissions, or damages resulting from the use or reliance on the information in this article.
Modern aluminium door frames, whether painted or not, are usually quite easy to keep clean. Unlike timber or painted plaster aluminium will not soak up grease or oil, so most stains will simply wipe away. But these can occasionally be problems with sticky substances or corrosive liquids.
Microfiber cloths.
These are relatively modern inventions. The fibres of these cloths are extremely fine, less than one denier thin, so they clean at a nearly microscopic level. This means they can remove most bacteria as well as remove surface grease.
An aluminium door can be cleaned quickly and effectively with a microfiber cloth. We recommend periodically cleaning and decontaminating the cloth.
De-Solve-It
This is a citrus-based cleaner available at hardware stores. It is quite safe to use but manages to be very effective for removing sticky substances from almost all surfaces, without causing any damage. It is good for surfaces that are exposed to a lot of fingers and handprints.
Turpentine and Acetone
These are very strong solvents used for paint and nail varnish. They will remove stubborn stains from many surfaces but they tend to remove paint and other finishes as well. Use these only as a last resort. Avoid contact with skin or inhaling the vapours.
Kerosene
This is another strong solvent. It is useful for removing chewing gum, but it is rather harsh and may damage paint or other surface finishes.
Modern security doors and fly screen frames are easy to maintain and will require less cleaning time than any other surface in the house. They are a sound investment for any home.
Information Disclaimer The content of this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be considered a source of professional advice, recommendations, or endorsements. It is not a substitute for seeking expert guidance or making well-informed decisions based on individual circumstances. Although we strive for accuracy and reliability, we cannot guarantee the information's completeness or suitability for all situations. Readers are urged to verify facts, consult experts, and consider their own context before taking actions or decisions based on this content. No warranties, explicit or implied, are provided regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or completeness of the presented information. Relying on this information is at the reader's own discretion and risk. We encourage readers to consult relevant professionals or experts for advice tailored to their specific needs. Neither the author, publisher, nor any affiliated parties will be held responsible for errors, omissions, or damages resulting from the use or reliance on the information in this article.
Door and windows let natural light and air inside your home. Fly screen doors, window fly screen mesh, and window blinds allow this natural light and air in while keeping insects and potential intruders out. They also allow some privacy for the people inside.
Because of the privacy and protection, they offer screens are a popular addition to many homes. Yet because there are many styles of flyscreen there is a matter of finding what is best for your home. When deciding, it is always best to have an informed choice.
Fixed screens are directly attached to your door or window, designed to stay there permanently. They can be made from a variety of fine mesh materials, and affixed with screws, rivets, or with a welded frame. Some can be removed with basic DIY skills, but they are basically permanent fixtures.
This type of fixed fly screen is a deterrent to potential intruders as the screen cannot be easily removed. Blinds and window guards provide more protection from intruders.
Retractable fly screens are not fixed in place. Instead, they are designed to either roll up for easy storage or retract into an overhead cassette. This is an advantage in some Australian homes as the flyscreens are only needed for a few months of the year.
Doors will use permanent flyscreens. A popular option here is usually to combine them with a security door that provided excellent protection for your front entrance.
Alternately, doors can use bi-fold screens. This is more popular with balconies and back garden entrances than the front door. And they are often favoured because of the large open entrance space they provide.
If you already have a large open entrance in your home then you can have retractable fly screens made for use during the insect season.
Fly screen mesh and blinds are worthy investments for your home.
Information Disclaimer The content of this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be considered a source of professional advice, recommendations, or endorsements. It is not a substitute for seeking expert guidance or making well-informed decisions based on individual circumstances. Although we strive for accuracy and reliability, we cannot guarantee the information's completeness or suitability for all situations. Readers are urged to verify facts, consult experts, and consider their own context before taking actions or decisions based on this content. No warranties, explicit or implied, are provided regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or completeness of the presented information. Relying on this information is at the reader's own discretion and risk. We encourage readers to consult relevant professionals or experts for advice tailored to their specific needs. Neither the author, publisher, nor any affiliated parties will be held responsible for errors, omissions, or damages resulting from the use or reliance on the information in this article.
A rather innovative idea, dual roller blinds have proved popular with the variable weather in Australia. They prove quite versatile.
A dual window blind combines two separate roller blinds on the same mounting bracket. Several different combinations of separate blinds are possible, but the most popular (and versatile) combination uses two contrasting materials. One blind material is translucent, allowing outside light in but allowing privacy. The other blind material completely blocks out light, creating total darkness inside the room.
The blind material that blocks all light is useful. The option for total darkness in a room is ideal if there is a home theatre, or if someone wants to sleep during the daylight hours. Total block out is also useful at night time if you want privacy inside. Alternately, the translucent shades allow us to save electrical power and use natural light, while still allowing privacy. Translucent shades with fly screen mesh windows are a great combination in summer.
Removable and retractable fly screens can be utilized during summer, and then packed away during winter.
Winter months benefit from the use of translucent blinds and closed windows. The natural light from outside is still useable, but the closed windows keep the heat inside. This situation is improved if the windows are double glazed.
The total block-out blind, in addition to blocking light and allowing privacy inside, will also provide some insulation, helping keep the inside rooms warm.
There is always a blind option to suit any décor and to provide the functionality that your home needs. Browse the blinds online and find the style that suits you. Most blinds can be made to order, so they will be the right size for your windows.
Information Disclaimer The content of this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be considered a source of professional advice, recommendations, or endorsements. It is not a substitute for seeking expert guidance or making well-informed decisions based on individual circumstances. Although we strive for accuracy and reliability, we cannot guarantee the information's completeness or suitability for all situations. Readers are urged to verify facts, consult experts, and consider their own context before taking actions or decisions based on this content. No warranties, explicit or implied, are provided regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or completeness of the presented information. Relying on this information is at the reader's own discretion and risk. We encourage readers to consult relevant professionals or experts for advice tailored to their specific needs. Neither the author, publisher, nor any affiliated parties will be held responsible for errors, omissions, or damages resulting from the use or reliance on the information in this article.
Most homes have young children running around for at least a few years of their existence. As everybody wants children to grow up without serious injury it helps to install safety features like reliable window blinds and security fly screen doors.
Blinds can be a safety issue for children. The cords once used for retracting older style window blinds were a choking hazard for youngsters. New designs either use a wand or electronic remote for retracting, or the cord is designed to break under the weight of the child.
Installing fly screen frames and mesh will help prevent children from falling out of windows. This is a rare but potentially serious accident.
Older style wire and the material mesh were designed to keep insects out, and were only partially effective for deterring children; it lacked the strength to support a child’s weight so a child might force its way through the mesh screen. Modern fly screen mesh is far stronger and will prevent children from falling through the window.
If you measure your windows you can find suitable window blinds online to suit and even enhance any décor.
Information Disclaimer The content of this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be considered a source of professional advice, recommendations, or endorsements. It is not a substitute for seeking expert guidance or making well-informed decisions based on individual circumstances. Although we strive for accuracy and reliability, we cannot guarantee the information's completeness or suitability for all situations. Readers are urged to verify facts, consult experts, and consider their own context before taking actions or decisions based on this content. No warranties, explicit or implied, are provided regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or completeness of the presented information. Relying on this information is at the reader's own discretion and risk. We encourage readers to consult relevant professionals or experts for advice tailored to their specific needs. Neither the author, publisher, nor any affiliated parties will be held responsible for errors, omissions, or damages resulting from the use or reliance on the information in this article.
The cooler winter months are approaching. It helps to have a few tricks and good habits for keeping the house warm in winter. The right approach for keeping the house warm will minimize power bills without compromising our comfort, or damaging the environment.
Seal the doors, especially around the edges. We encourage circulation for hotter weather, but it is preferable to keep the warm air inside during the winter by keeping all potential openings sealed. A roll of cloth along the base of the door or a stuffed novelty draft excluder can be a considerable help.
Thick curtains on windows will both absorb some warmth from the Sun and provide insulation from the inevitably cold glass windows.
Window blinds can work in the way that curtains do, providing insulation from the cold glass windows and absorbing a little bit of heat from the Sun.
Close up rooms that are not used and do now waste energy heating them.
Have insulation put in the room. This makes the heating system much more efficient because the rising hot air is not lost through the roof. Colder months are an idea for adding insulation.
Small heaters in a room will cost far less to run than a central heating system.
Operate heaters in open areas away from the furniture.
Keep the family in the main dining or lounge room whenever possible, and just heat these rooms.
Warm clothes indoors make all the difference. Use heaters to keep the air at a comfortable breathing temperature, but no higher.
Insects are rarely a problem in Sydney during the cooler months. Fly screens mesh on windows can be retracted for the season, and brought out for next summer.
If you don’t already have blinds then consider the online options. If you have accurate measurements of the window you can order blinds online. These will add to the insulation that a house needs in winter.
Information Disclaimer The content of this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be considered a source of professional advice, recommendations, or endorsements. It is not a substitute for seeking expert guidance or making well-informed decisions based on individual circumstances. Although we strive for accuracy and reliability, we cannot guarantee the information's completeness or suitability for all situations. Readers are urged to verify facts, consult experts, and consider their own context before taking actions or decisions based on this content. No warranties, explicit or implied, are provided regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or completeness of the presented information. Relying on this information is at the reader's own discretion and risk. We encourage readers to consult relevant professionals or experts for advice tailored to their specific needs. Neither the author, publisher, nor any affiliated parties will be held responsible for errors, omissions, or damages resulting from the use or reliance on the information in this article.
Using fly screen mesh on your windows is a reliable way to keep all insects and spiders out. This provides a physical barrier against their entry, something far superior to chemical sprays. Unlike some chemical sprays, a fly screen frame and mesh will never harm the environment.
Because Sydney’s weather varies throughout the year, and because insects vary with the season, there is no need to have flyscreens all year round. Retractable flyscreens can be used in summer and stored away above the window when not in use. Windows operate without being affected by the retractable fly screen.
Insects can also be deterred with some plants and natural substances. Peppermint and vinegar seem to repel at least come spiders. Eucalyptus oil seems to repel some flying insects. Basil plants will deter some insects, as will lemongrass Try growing these plants near your window.
The great advantage of these retractable fly screens devices is experienced during the summer months – the door allows the air to circulate while still keeping insects outside. When locked they also keep homes safe from break-and-enter problems.
Some houses install both an insect screen frame and blinds on each window. These can be used independently without interfering with each other. Window blinds are great for allowing the right amount of light or privacy. Flyscreens are there to prevent insect problems.
Information Disclaimer The content of this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be considered a source of professional advice, recommendations, or endorsements. It is not a substitute for seeking expert guidance or making well-informed decisions based on individual circumstances. Although we strive for accuracy and reliability, we cannot guarantee the information's completeness or suitability for all situations. Readers are urged to verify facts, consult experts, and consider their own context before taking actions or decisions based on this content. No warranties, explicit or implied, are provided regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or completeness of the presented information. Relying on this information is at the reader's own discretion and risk. We encourage readers to consult relevant professionals or experts for advice tailored to their specific needs. Neither the author, publisher, nor any affiliated parties will be held responsible for errors, omissions, or damages resulting from the use or reliance on the information in this article.
