Having a lanai or pool cage in Florida is one of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors without dealing with mosquitoes. But if you have dogs or cats, you may have already noticed how quickly standard fiberglass screen panels can get damaged. Scratches, tears, and holes not only look bad but also let insects and debris inside your outdoor space.
This is where pet-friendly screens (also called pet-resistant screens) come in. They are designed to handle the extra stress that pets put on screen enclosures while keeping your lanai looking neat for years.
Why Pets Destroy Regular Screens
Even the best 18×14 fiberglass screen is not built to handle pet claws.
- Dogs tend to jump against the screen when they see squirrels, delivery drivers, or neighbors walking by.
- Cats love to climb, which puts vertical stress on the panels.
- Chewing puppies may gnaw at the bottom of the screen, creating holes.
Once a panel has even a small tear, it stretches under tension and quickly becomes a bigger problem.
Benefits of Pet-Resistant Screens
Upgrading to pet-resistant screen material solves these problems:
- Vinyl-Coated Polyester Construction: Up to 7x stronger than standard fiberglass screen.
- Claw & Scratch Resistant: Perfect for homes with large dogs or multiple pets.
- Long-Lasting Investment: Reduces the need for frequent screen repairs.
- Maintains Airflow & Visibility: Enjoy your lanai without sacrificing the view.
- Better for Active Families: Stands up to kids bumping into the screen too!
Choosing the Right Pet Screen Material
When scheduling your lanai rescreening or pool cage repair, ask your contractor about:
- Phifer PetScreen: Industry standard, heavy-duty vinyl-coated polyester.
- Super Screen®: UV-resistant, ideal for coastal Florida homes.
- Privacy Mesh or Solar Screens: If you want added sun protection or privacy.
These options are slightly thicker but still allow plenty of airflow, making them perfect for Southwest Florida’s humid climate.
Maintenance Tips for Longer Life
Even with pet-friendly screens, proper care is essential:
- Trim your pet’s nails regularly to reduce wear.
- Rinse screens monthly with a garden hose to remove dirt and salt buildup.
- Inspect the bottom track of screen doors to make sure it slides smoothly.
- Teach pets to use screen doors properly (or install a pet door insert).
These habits will extend the life of your screen and reduce repair costs.
Why Hire a Professional for Installation
Pet-resistant screens are tougher to stretch and install compared to standard fiberglass. A professional company like Best Rescreen Company has the tools, experience, and techniques to make sure your enclosure looks perfect and lasts for years.
DIY attempts can lead to loose panels, uneven tension, or premature failure — which usually ends up costing more in the long run.
Get a Free Estimate Today
Ready to give your pets freedom without sacrificing your lanai? Contact Best Rescreen Company today and ask about upgrading to pet-friendly screens.
📞 Call: (239) 344-7774
🌐 Visit: bestrescreenco.com
We proudly serve Naples, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and surrounding areas, helping homeowners enjoy a safer, cleaner, and more durable outdoor space.
