While screens may be a non-negotiable for some homeowners, for others, they prefer their windows without screens. As a general rule, Europeans don’t use window screens, so they’re not something that you technically need. However, window screens can be expensive, so it’s important to know whether or not windows come with screens.
In Short: It Depends
Most window companies do indeed provide screens with their windows. However, this isn’t the case for all window companies. If you’re window-shopping, it’s always good to double-check with the supplier about whether or not their windows come with screens.
This is especially true if you have a preference one way or another. If you want screens, you’ll want to know whether or not you should plan to pay extra for them. If you don’t want screens, you’ll want to know whether or not you’ll have to find somewhere to put these screens that you don’t want or ask the window company if they can simply leave them out. If this is possible, the window company could take the cost of the screens off the cost of the windows.
What Are The Building Codes Where You Live?
In many places, you can decide for yourself whether or not you want window screens. This isn’t the case everywhere, though. Many places will require in their building codes that openable windows have properly fitted screens. If you live somewhere where window screens are required by building codes, then more likely than not, yes, your windows come with screens.
For instance, according to Utah Admin. Code 392-501-5, “a properly fitted screen of at least 16 mesh shall be provided for each openable window”.
Do You Need Window Screens?
If you’re asking if windows come with screens, you likely also want to know whether or not you even need window screens. Again, this depends. If your building codes require window screens, then it doesn’t really matter what your personal opinion on the matter is.
However, if you live somewhere where you can choose whether or not you have window screens, then you can weigh the pros and cons in order to decide for yourself. These will be something you want to keep in mind when asking window companies if their windows come with screens.
What Are The Benefits Of Window Screens?
Window screens were first referenced in 1823 in the American Farmer. They grew more commonplace, and by the 1950s, parasitic diseases were largely eradicated in the United States due to the widespread use of window screens keeping insects out of homes and businesses.
#1. Keeping Insects Out
The primary benefit of window screens is preventing insects and other such pests from getting into your home. This allows you to open your windows and enjoy the fresh air without having to worry about letting all kinds of insects in with said balmy breeze.
#2. Weather Resistance
Window screens can offer some protection against water pooling and mold that can result from it. They can function as a first line of defense against the weather, which can help to protect your windows, depending on which side of the window the screen is on.
#3. Protection
This ties into the point above. If you have window screens, they can protect your property from the elements, dirt, insects and other pests, and damage from flying objects. Even if a window screen were to break from the impact of something being thrown at it, it could lessen the damage that would otherwise result.
#4. Curb Appeal
If you have window screens in disrepair, this reflects poorly on the rest of your home. Well-maintained window screens tell people that you care and that you put in the work to keep your home in good repair.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Window Screens?
Helpful as window screens can be, not everyone likes them. If you’re asking if your windows come with screens and you aren’t required to have them, it’s good to know the cons as well as the pros. It’s also important to note that depending on where you live, you may be required to replace your window screens with storm windows during the winter months.
#1. Decreased Natural Light
This depends on the type of screen that you have, as some allow more natural light in than others. However, screens can dampen sunlight and make your home appear darker, which can be a major disadvantage to some people.
#2. Snow And Ice
The weight of snow and ice can build up on window screens and result in damage to both the screen and your window frame. If this is something you are worried about, you may be able to remove the window screens and simply leave them off or replace them with storm windows during the winter.
Important Note About Window Screen Preferences
When you are researching whether or not windows come with screens, be careful to check your local building codes first. If you have a strong preference one way or the other, it’s important to know whether or not said preference aligns with your building codes.
If you are hoping that your windows will not come with screens and you live somewhere that requires screens, you wouldn’t want to get your hopes up by reading all these articles telling you you can pick one way or the other when your local building codes say otherwise.
If your local building codes require that windows come with screens, more likely than not, window suppliers will ensure that their windows come with screens. Always check to be sure, as you may need to purchase screens on your own if your windows do not come with screens.
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