When planning to rescreen your lanai or pool enclosure in Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, or Fort Myers, one of the first decisions you’ll face is choosing between Florida Glass and Standard Screen. Both options offer unique benefits, but understanding the differences will help you choose the right material for your home and lifestyle.
At Best Rescreen Company, we’ve been helping Southwest Florida homeowners make smart screening choices for over 30 years. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide.
What Is Standard Screen?
Standard screen—often referred to as Phifer 18×14 fiberglass screen—is the most common type of screen used in pool enclosures and lanais across Florida. It is designed to:
- Keep out insects such as mosquitoes and flies
- Allow air flow and natural light
- Maintain visibility of your outdoor space
Pros of Standard Screen
✅ Affordable option
✅ Allows good airflow
✅ Provides a clear view of the outdoors
✅ Widely available and easy to replace
Cons of Standard Screen
❌ Offers no privacy
❌ Allows rain to pass through
❌ Less durable compared to specialty screens
What Is Florida Glass?
Florida Glass, also known as vinyl-laminated screen or screen glass, is a special material with a vinyl coating applied to standard screen mesh. The result is a product that looks like frosted glass and performs differently than a standard screen.
Florida Glass is designed to:
- Block debris and dirt from entering your pool or lanai
- Provide privacy from neighbors
- Act as a barrier against rain and water spray
Pros of Florida Glass
✅ Great for privacy
✅ Keeps out grass clippings, dirt, and water
✅ Ideal for the lower panels of pool enclosures
✅ Adds an upscale look to lanais
Cons of Florida Glass
❌ Reduced airflow
❌ Blocks some natural light
❌ More expensive than standard screen
❌ May require more frequent replacement if exposed to high winds or intense sun
Use Cases: When to Choose Each
When to Choose Standard Screen
- You want a wide open view of your backyard or pool area.
- Airflow is a priority—you want to feel the breeze.
- You’re on a budget and looking for a cost-effective option.
- Your home is in a less windy area and not exposed to lots of dirt or debris.
When to Choose Florida Glass
- You want to create privacy from neighbors, especially for your lanai or lower screen panels.
- Your pool area is surrounded by trees, grass, or landscaping that produces lots of debris.
- You want to keep rainwater from splashing into your enclosure.
- You want to block the view of a neighbor’s fence or structure without installing solid walls.
Can You Combine Both?
Yes! Many homeowners in Naples, Marco Island, and Bonita Springs choose to combine both materials:
- Install Florida Glass along the bottom row of their pool cage or lanai (often called a kick panel).
- Use standard screen on the upper portions to maintain airflow and visibility.
This hybrid setup gives you the best of both worlds—privacy where you want it and openness where you don’t.
Durability & Maintenance
Standard Screen Maintenance
- Lasts 5–8 years depending on exposure and quality.
- Easy to clean with a hose or gentle soap and water.
- Affordable to replace individual panels.
Florida Glass Maintenance
- Lasts 4–6 years on average (vinyl coating can wear faster in strong sun).
- Wipe down with a cloth and mild soap to prevent cloudiness.
- Replace when vinyl begins to crack or lose transparency.
Tip: Because of its weight and lower airflow, Florida Glass should always be installed by experienced pros to ensure proper tension and stability.
Cost Comparison
| Screen Type | Approximate Cost (Installed) |
|---|---|
| Standard Screen | $1.25–$1.75 per square foot |
| Florida Glass | $3.50–$5.00 per square foot |
Note: Costs vary depending on project size and specific needs. We offer free estimates to help you plan the perfect solution.
Conclusion: Which One Is Right for You?
Here’s a quick summary:
| You Should Choose | If You Want |
|---|---|
| Standard Screen | Clear views, airflow, lower cost |
| Florida Glass | Privacy, debris blocking, splash protection |
If you’re unsure which material is right for your home, give us a call! Our team at Best Rescreen Company will be happy to discuss your goals and provide a no-obligation estimate.
Service Areas
We proudly serve:
Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and surrounding Southwest Florida communities.
Contact Us
Best Rescreen Company
5660 Strand Ct Unit A244, Naples, FL 34110
📞 (239) 344-7774
🌐 www.bestrescreenco.com
Ready to upgrade your pool cage or lanai with the perfect screen?
Contact Best Rescreen Company today at (239) 344-7774 or visit www.bestrescreenco.com to request your free estimate. We’ll help you choose the best screen for your home and install it with expert care!
