If you are trying to decide on what brand of motorized retractable patio screen to buy you've probably been looking at one of the following: Apollo, Phantom, Terra Summer, Progressive, or Universal Screens. All of these motorized screens companies can significantly improve your outdoor living space, allowing airflow and creating a comfortable environment with some of the latest technology. These are not yet in every one of your neighbor's homes, you'll be one of the first, so how do you appreciate which brand is best for you? This article will explore durability, , aesthetics, and functionality of the top 5 patio screens manufacturers so you can decide on your own best option.
Key Points
If you don't want to sift through the whole article and you just want to know some key points here they are:
Our Selection Points
When looking for manufacturers of the best motorized retractable patio screens we had to consider several points. These are massive upgrades to your outdoor living space, and have dozens of unique applications. Your best option may include the unique features you are looking for, like ventilation vs visibility, weather conditions and wind resistance vs UV protection. Looks, ease of ordering, expert installation, warranties and durability are important as well.
Deciding on Apollo for your outdoor living space puts you in the category of someone who has to have the latest and the greatest, and super high-quality. In this case it also means you want the best protection of your investment. Apollo started over two decades ago as an installation company, and realized that most manufacturers don't appreciate the homeowners needs and the flexibility of each installation.
As a result Apollo focuses on the things that worked for other brands, eliminated the ideas that didn't and has pushed the world of retractable porch screens to innovate and adapt. Made in the USA and a family owned business, Apollo separates itself from the rest.
Here are some of key differences with Apollo Screens:
Apollo is, of course, our favorite patio screen system.
Phantom Executive Screens are the grand-daddy of power screens. They have been around since the early 2000s and are a Canadian based manufacturer of retractable screens and motorized screens
With Phantom Screens you are going with the closest thing to a well-known brand. It may not offer the most, or the best, but is a safe and solid option that works well and will for years.
Terra Summer is perhaps the leader in diy retractable patio screens. They offer a number of upgrades for your outdoor living space if you're a weekend warrior that wants high-quality but is willing to do the work yourself.
Features of Terra Summer Patio Screens
If you are a handy kind of person, and want to save some money, Terra Summer is likely the way to go. Be warned, this is not that easy!
Universal is an interesting brand. One of the pioneers of zipper track technology (back when they were a division of ClearView Motion Screens), they were recently purchased by Hunter Douglas and have the largest factory in the business located in Plano Texas. A solid all around system.
Highlights and Points of Universal Screens
Universal is a well made screen growing in popularity. While not the most innovative, their simple solution still offers protection from the elements in most conditions.
The last company on this list, Progressive is marketed as the choice for strong winds and hurricanes. Also a member of the Hunter Douglas group, their system incorporates magnets into the tracks to lock the fabric in place, in theory stronger than the zipper or keder systems by most other brands. This beefy retractable patio screen does come with a few caveats, however. The magnets inside the track make the system quite a bit noisier than its zipper tracked alternatives. The size of the housing is also the largest of the group. Lastly, you have to consider when you would have your screens exposed in hurricane-like conditions. While the fabric may hold, the tracks may rip off the wall before the fabric gives.
Highlights and Points of Magna Track Screens
Ultimately, that's for you to decide. We built Apollo to solve all the problems that needed solving, and offer the best looking, most efficient unit we could. If you are looking for hurricane protection you might consider Progressive's system. Do it yourself patio screeners will likely prefer Terra Summer. Phantom motorized screens, and Universal's system would be a great choice as well!
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