Screen replacement - what's most transparent? TruScene, Bettervue, etc

3 years ago

I would appreciate guidance on best window screen replacement options. We have Andersen TruScene screens less than 10 years old that unfortunately have pet damage and require replacement. I'm moving away from replacing with TruScene because Andersen doesn't replace screens, instead requires purchase of a whole new screen with frame, and I'm not sure it's worth it. I looked at screen options at a local screen replacement shop. There are no matches to TruScene, but gray fiberglass seemed worth considering. I figure that as long as all screens in the same room are the same material, it'll be ok (as opposed to a mix of screening material in the same room). Online research identifies Phifer Bettervue (which I think is available in black or gray) as a good candidate for transparency, and it appears it's sold at Home Depot. I also noticed Phifer charcoal fiberglass No-See-Um mesh. I'd love advice on what's best, including what color -- black, charcoal, or gray -- in terms of transparency and anything else worth considering. Thank you!

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Comments (6)

millworkman
3 years ago
You received answers on this the other day, no?
Holly Robinson
Original Author
3 years ago
Thank you. I have spoken with two screen shops since then and visited another to look at screen samples but thought it would be worthwhile asking these more specific questions here since it has been difficult getting information. For instance, it hasn't been clear what color screening is least visible, although I'm reading that charcoal or black may be least visible. About 15 minutes ago, I received a call from someone who can replace with Phifer Ultravue, which sounds like it could be good, although it's less durable than standard fiberglass screening. If it's worthwhile going to the trouble of replacing with Ultravue, I probably can do that, but maybe standard fiberglass in charcoal is fine and I should just call it a day. It would be great to know what color standard fiberglass screen is least visible. I would be interested in thoughts/guidance of those who have dealt with screen replacement.
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millworkman
3 years ago
Andersen screens have a metal "u" shaped spline that is a bear to get back in. I have seen them replaced with a rubber spline, like normal screens, but it usually does not stay in the channel quite as well.
Holly Robinson
Original Author
3 years ago
Good to know. Thank you.
User
3 years ago
We have TruScene in our <1 year old Renewal by Andersen windows and love them. We did them in the windows on the front of the house facing the street but all the rest are the standard fiberglass insect screens. You can barely tell the difference.
Elaine Fiegen
18 days ago
last modified: 18 days ago
@User Can barley tell the difference as in not much noticeable difference between the truscene screens and the standard screens?