When it comes to retractable screen doors, the name Mirage often comes up as a symbol of quality and reliability. As a Canadian manufacturer with decades of experience, Mirage has established itself as a key player in the industry. Their products are known for their durability and functionality, making them a popular choice among homeowners and contractors alike.
In San Diego, where the sunshine and breezy coastal air are quintessential, the need for effective and aesthetically pleasing screen doors is paramount. Mirage screen doors have served this need well, offering protection from insects and allowing for natural ventilation without compromising the view or the aesthetics of homes.
However, even the best products have room for improvement, and this is where Apollo, a rising star in the retractable screen door market, comes in. Let's delve into the key areas where Apollo has taken the concept of retractable screen doors a step further, enhancing both functionality and design.
The first thing that strikes you about the Apollo retractable screen door is its attention to detail. This is evident in the way Apollo treats the components that most people don't think about – the screws. Unlike many other brands, Apollo ensures that all screws are covered, giving their screen doors a more polished and finished look. This small but significant detail reflects Apollo's commitment to quality and aesthetics.
Another area where Apollo shines is in its magnet design. The magnets in Apollo screen doors are sealed, contrasting sharply with the exposed magnets often seen in other brands like Mirage. This sealing not only contributes to a more modern and sophisticated appearance but also offers practical benefits. Sealed magnets are less prone to damage and wear, ensuring that the screen door operates smoothly over time.
In a home in San Diego where we recently replaced a Mirage screen door with an Apollo model, the difference was immediately noticeable. The homeowner appreciated the sleek look that the covered screws and sealed magnets provided, remarking on how these small changes significantly improved the overall appearance of their patio.
A retractable screen door is only as good as its ease of use, and this is where Apollo's design really stands out. The handle on an Apollo screen door is a perfect blend of ergonomics and aesthetics. In contrast to the standard plastic handle found on Mirage doors, Apollo has opted for an all-metal handle. But it's not just about the material; it's about the design.
Apollo's handle is designed with what experts call "haptic touch." This design philosophy focuses on how something feels in the hand, ensuring that the handle is not just easy to use but also feels good to touch. This is especially beneficial for people with larger hands or longer fingernails, who might find smaller or plastic handles uncomfortable or difficult to use.
The contoured grip of Apollo's handle allows for a smooth and effortless operation of the screen door. In our San Diego project, the client was impressed with how the Apollo screen door's handle felt and functioned. The ergonomic design made opening and closing the screen door a breeze – literally and figuratively. Moreover, the metal handle adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of the door, giving it a sleek, modern look that complements contemporary home designs.
The aesthetics of a retractable screen door play a significant role in its appeal, and Apollo understands this well. One of the standout features of Apollo's design is the back housing of the screen door. Unlike Mirage and most other brands that often have an open back, Apollo's housing is fully encased. This design choice doesn't just enhance the door's visual appeal; it serves a practical purpose too.
Apollo retractable screen doors are frequently used, leading to an accumulation of dust, leaves, and other debris. An open back housing, as seen in many Mirage doors, means this debris is visible and can detract from the door's appearance over time. Apollo's enclosed back prevents this, ensuring that the screen maintains a clean, uncluttered look. This feature was particularly appreciated in our San Diego project, where the homeowner noted the difference in how much cleaner and more finished the Apollo screen door appeared compared to their previous Mirage door.
When it comes to blending form and function, Apollo retractable screen doors are a class apart. The design philosophy behind Apollo doors is rooted in modern and contemporary aesthetics. They feature sleek lines and a minimalist approach, embodying the concept of a vanishing screen that blends seamlessly with the home's architecture.
In contrast, Mirage screen doors, while functional, have a design that is noticeably more industrial, with seven sides that make them more visible and less integrated into the home's exterior. This was evident in the San Diego installation, where the sleek and minimal design of the Apollo door complemented the modern home far better than the previous Mirage door. The idea is for the screen to be there when you need it and to disappear into the background when you don't - a concept that Apollo has mastered.
A common complaint with retractable screen doors is the jarring noise and impact when they retract too quickly, often leading to a slamming sound. Apollo has addressed this issue with a smooth gliding mechanism that ensures the screen retracts gently and quietly. This feature is in stark contrast to Mirage and other brands, where the retracting mechanism can be abrupt and noisy.
In our San Diego project, the difference in the retraction mechanism was one of the most appreciated features. The Apollo screen door glides back with such smoothness and ease that the slamming sound is entirely eliminated. This not only adds to the lifespan of the screen door by reducing the impact on the mechanism but also enhances the user experience significantly. Homeowners can enjoy the breeze without the annoyance of a slamming screen door, making Apollo an ideal choice for those seeking both functionality and tranquility in their living spaces.
The real test of any product lies in its application, and this is where the Apollo retractable screen door truly shines. A recent project in San Diego provided the perfect opportunity to showcase the superiority of Apollo over Mirage. The task involved replacing an existing Mirage retractable screen door with a new Apollo screen door.
The client, who had been using the Mirage door for several years, immediately noticed the differences. From the sleek design to the smooth operation, the Apollo screen door was a significant upgrade. The client was particularly impressed with how the Apollo door enhanced the overall look of their home. It wasn't just a screen door; it was an upgrade to their living space. The ease of operation, coupled with the elegant design, made the Apollo screen door a standout feature in their home.
In this section, we address some of the most common questions and concerns people have regarding Apollo and Mirage retractable screen doors. This information is based on frequent queries from homeowners and insights from industry experts.
What are the primary differences between Apollo and Mirage retractable screen doors?
How do the handles of Apollo and Mirage doors compare?
Is there a difference in the installation process between the two brands?
Choosing the right retractable screen door is about balancing functionality, aesthetics, and durability. Apollo retractable screen doors excel in all these areas, offering a superior alternative to traditional options like Mirage. With their modern design, attention to detail, ergonomic features, and smooth operation, Apollo doors not only enhance the usability of your space but also contribute to its aesthetic appeal.
In the sunny and breezy environment of San Diego, where the functionality of a screen door is as important as its appearance, Apollo stands out as the go-to choice for homeowners seeking the best in both worlds. Whether it's a new installation or replacing an existing door, choosing Apollo is an investment in quality, comfort, and style.
For those in San Diego and beyond looking to upgrade their homes with a retractable screen door, Apollo offers an unmatched blend of elegance, functionality, and durability. Experience the difference with Apollo – where design meets practicality.