A Complete Guide to Fly Screens for Windows That Open Outwards
Trying to find the right fly screens for windows that open outwards can feel like a challenge, especially with the casement styles so common across the UK. It’s a classic problem: a standard screen won’t work on the inside. At Premier Screens, we’ve perfected the solution. Our bespoke systems are designed to fit seamlessly onto the fixed part of your window frame, allowing the window to swing open freely while keeping every last pest out.
Solving the Outward-Opening Window Challenge
For most of us in the UK, enjoying a cool summer breeze often means letting in a host of unwanted guests – flies, wasps, and midges being the main offenders. It’s a common frustration, purely because our windows are designed to push outwards, making typical off-the-shelf internal screens useless.
This is more than a minor annoyance; it’s a genuine health concern. Beyond keeping bugs out, Premier Screens’ solutions allow you to open your home to fresh air, which is vital for improving indoor air quality. Our screens also act as a brilliant barrier against airborne allergens like pollen—a real lifeline for allergy sufferers.
Why a Custom Solution Is Essential
A one-size-fits-all approach just doesn’t work for these windows. You need a made-to-measure solution that fits your existing frames perfectly without getting in the way. This is where a specialist UK manufacturer like Premier Screens makes all the difference.
With decades of hands-on experience, we provide custom-built systems that guarantee:
- An impenetrable barrier: A flawless fit means no gaps for insects to sneak through.
- Unhindered operation: Open and close your windows exactly as you always have.
- Aesthetic integration: Our screens look like a natural part of your window, not a clumsy add-on.
Demand for fly screens for windows that open outwards has surged recently. Public Health England reported over 1.2 million cases of food poisoning linked to flies in 2023 alone. This startling statistic has helped drive a 28% increase in bespoke screen installations since 2020, reflecting both the number of casement windows in UK homes and a growing desire for healthier living spaces.
Finding Your Perfect Fly Screen System
Choosing the right fly screen isn’t just about blocking insects; it’s about finding a solution that fits your lifestyle and complements your home. For windows that open outwards, the screen must be installed on the inside, fitted to the fixed part of the window frame. This setup allows the window to swing outwards without obstruction.
Let’s break down the main systems we offer at Premier Screens to help you find the perfect match.
Retractable Screens The Discreet Guardian
Imagine a roller blind made of a fine, almost invisible mesh. That’s a retractable fly screen. When you want protection, simply pull the screen across the opening where it locks securely. When you don’t need it, it glides back into a slim cassette, disappearing from view.
This system is by far our most popular choice for homeowners who value aesthetics and flexibility. You get an effective insect barrier when you need one and a completely clear view when you don’t. At Premier Screens, our retractable systems are engineered for smooth, reliable operation, making them a premium, long-lasting addition to any room.
Retractable screens offer the best of both worlds: total insect protection when in use and a completely clear view when retracted. Their low-profile design ensures they blend seamlessly with your existing window frames, preserving your home’s character.
Hinged Screens The Sturdy Classic
Hinged fly screens operate like a miniature door for your window reveal. They are mounted on one side with hinges and typically have a simple handle or turn-button, letting you swing the screen open for easy access to your window handles.
This option is exceptionally robust and straightforward. Thanks to their solid construction, Premier Screens’ hinged screens are a fantastic choice for high-traffic areas or commercial environments like busy kitchens where durability is essential. They’re also incredibly easy to clean and can be lifted off their hinges without tools if you need to remove them.
To find out more, you can learn all about hinged panel fly screens for windows and see if they suit your needs.
Magnetic Screens The Simple Solution
Magnetic fly screens are a brilliantly simple and effective approach. A flexible magnetic strip attaches around your window’s fixed frame, and a matching magnet is sewn into the border of the mesh screen. The screen simply ‘snaps’ into place, creating a perfect seal.
This system is an excellent DIY option. It’s incredibly easy to install, often requires no drilling, and can be removed in seconds for cleaning or winter storage. While they might not have the same sleek, integrated feel as our retractable systems, their effectiveness and ease of use make them a practical choice for many, including renters or anyone looking for a budget-friendly solution.
Fly Screen System Comparison for Outward-Opening Windows
To help you decide, here’s a quick comparison of the three primary types of fly screens for windows that open outwards offered by Premier Screens. This will help you identify the best fit for your home.
| Screen Type | Best For | Installation | Discreetness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retractable | Homeowners wanting a sleek, modern look and unobstructed views. | Professional or confident DIY. | Very High – hides away when not in use. |
| Hinged | High-use areas, commercial kitchens, and easy window access. | Simple DIY with basic tools. | Medium – always visible but functional. |
| Magnetic | Renters, budget-conscious buyers, and easy DIY installation. | Very simple, often no tools needed. | Medium – screen is removable but visible when up. |
Each Premier Screens system has its strengths. The best choice comes down to how you use your windows and what you value most.
How to Measure Your Windows for a Perfect Fit
Getting the measurements right is the single most important step for your fly screens for windows that open outwards. A perfect fit guarantees no gaps for pests to sneak through.
It might sound tricky, but getting professional-level accuracy is simpler than you think. In the UK, demand for fly screens is booming, contributing to Europe’s 5.3% compound annual growth rate and reaching 8 million units each year. A huge 70% of these are for outward-opening windows, showing just how many homeowners are looking for a properly fitted solution. You can find more insights on the residential window screen market on marketreportanalytics.com.
Taking Your Measurements Step-by-Step
First, you’ll need a good quality tape measure. Since the screen for an outward-opening window fits onto the fixed frame inside your room, you’ll be measuring the window opening itself—the ‘reveal’. To ensure your screens fit perfectly, it’s vital to get your head around how to measure window screen size correctly.
Follow these simple steps for accurate results:
- Measure the Width: Take three separate width measurements inside the window reveal: at the top, middle, and bottom.
- Record the Smallest Width: Write down all three numbers, but use the smallest of the three. This ensures your screen will fit comfortably, even at the narrowest point.
- Measure the Height: Do the same for the height. Measure the vertical distance on the left side, down the centre, and on the right side of the reveal.
- Record the Smallest Height: Just like with the width, use the smallest of the three height measurements for your final order. This simple trick prevents any nasty surprises during installation.
Pro Tip: Always measure twice. A quick double-check takes seconds but can save you from a costly mistake and guarantees your made-to-measure screen will be a perfect match.
From Your Measurements to an Instant Quote
Once you have your final width and height, the rest is easy. These are the two numbers you’ll need for the Premier Screens online quoting tool.
Just enter your smallest width and height measurements into our website calculator. Our system instantly crunches the numbers to give you a clear, accurate price for your custom-made fly screen. It’s a straightforward process that takes you from DIY measuring to a final quote in minutes.
Choosing the Right Mesh and Frame Materials
You’ve pinpointed the right system for your windows. Now it’s time to choose the materials that will define how your screen performs and lasts.
Think of it like picking tyres for a car; they determine how it handles the road. The right choice depends on your needs. A city flat has different challenges than a farmhouse, and a home with a boisterous Labrador needs a tougher solution than a quiet apartment.
At Premier Screens, we offer a range of options to ensure your fly screens for windows that open outwards are perfectly suited to your specific environment.
Selecting the Ideal Mesh for Your Home
The mesh is the workhorse of your screen, so getting this choice right is crucial. Our options handle anything the British environment can throw at them.
- Standard Insect Mesh: Our go-to, all-round performer. It creates an excellent barrier against common pests like flies, wasps, and moths while maintaining brilliant airflow and visibility.
- Superfine Midge Mesh: If you live near water or in parts of the country where midges are a menace, this is the mesh you need. Its tighter weave stops even the tiniest insects without spoiling your view.
- Pet-Resistant Mesh: For the 25% of UK households with pets, this mesh is a lifesaver. It’s built from a tougher material that handles scratches and bumps from curious paws. In fact, it can endure up to 10 times more force than standard options.
- Pollen Mesh: A genuine relief for allergy sufferers. This specialised mesh is engineered to capture up to 95% of airborne pollen, a massive benefit for the 5.4 million UK adults affected by asthma. You can see more details on innovative screen materials in this market research report.
The Unmatched Durability of Our Aluminium Frames
While the mesh does the filtering, the frame provides structure and resilience. With the unpredictable UK climate, the frame material truly matters.
This is why all Premier Screens frames are made from polyester-coated aluminium.
This isn’t average aluminium. The polyester powder coating creates a tough, durable finish that’s highly resistant to rust, corrosion, and UV fading. It’s a professional-grade finish that ensures your screens will look great and work perfectly for years, making them a sound, long-term investment. This is what makes our screens a reliable choice for homes and demanding commercial settings.
By customising both the mesh and frame, you’re not just buying a fly screen; you are designing a bespoke environmental barrier perfectly suited to your home, your family, and your local climate. This ensures maximum protection and a lasting return on your investment.
Deciding Between DIY and Professional Installation
Once you’ve picked the perfect system and materials, the final step is installation. Should you tackle it yourself, or call in the experts? The right answer depends on your confidence, tools, and where the screens will be used.
At Premier Screens, we cater to both paths. We offer flexible supply-only kits for the hands-on homeowner and a full professional installation service for those who want a guaranteed perfect finish. This way, you can get the right fit for your fly screens for windows that open outwards, whichever route you choose.
The Case for a DIY Installation
Our supply-only DIY kits are a popular choice for homeowners comfortable with basic home improvement. If you have a drill, screwdriver, and tape measure, you’re ready to fit your screens yourself.
The benefits are clear:
- Cost Savings: By taking on the labour, you can significantly reduce the overall project cost.
- Flexibility: Work at your own pace and schedule the job for a time that suits you.
- A Sense of Accomplishment: There’s real satisfaction in completing a home improvement project with your own hands.
If you’re ready to get started, take a look at our detailed fly screen installation instructions to see just how straightforward the process is.
When to Choose Professional Fitting
Opting for our professional installation service gives you complete peace of mind. Our experienced technicians handle everything, ensuring a flawless, stress-free result. This is the ideal choice if you’re short on time, aren’t confident in your DIY skills, or simply want the job done perfectly with zero fuss.
A professional fit guarantees your screens are installed to the highest standard, maximising their effectiveness and lifespan. It’s the ultimate convenience.
For commercial settings like restaurants and professional kitchens, professional installation isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity. Food Standards Agency (FSA) regulations demand a complete insect barrier, and a guaranteed professional fit ensures full compliance, protecting your business and customers.
By choosing the Premier Screens installation service, you’re investing in certified compliance and commercial peace of mind. We ensure every gap is sealed and every regulation is met, so you can focus on what you do best.
Your Fly Screen Questions Answered
We understand that choosing the right fly screens for windows that open outwards can raise a few questions. To help you feel confident, we’ve pulled together clear answers to the queries we hear most often. With decades of experience as a UK manufacturer, our goal at Premier Screens is to give you all the information you need.
Can I Still Open and Close My Window Easily?
Absolutely. This is a core feature of our designs. Every Premier Screens system—retractable, hinged, or magnetic—is made to be fitted onto the fixed part of your window frame.
This means the screen stays put while your window casement swings outwards, completely unimpeded. You can open, close, and lock your windows just as you always have. Retractable screens are especially popular for this reason; they slide away into a slim cassette, becoming almost invisible when not needed. You get total protection without sacrificing convenience.
Are Your Fly Screens Built to Last in UK Weather?
Yes, they’re engineered from the ground up for the British climate. We know our weather can be unpredictable, from damp, salty air to intense summer sun.
That’s why we use robust, polyester-coated aluminium for all our frames. This isn’t standard aluminium; it’s exceptionally resistant to rust, corrosion, and UV fading. Paired with our durable mesh, our screens are built to be a reliable, long-term solution that will look and perform brilliantly for years. As a UK-based manufacturer, we build products that last.
Your investment in a Premier Screens solution is an investment in lasting quality. Our materials are chosen not just for their immediate effectiveness but for their long-term resilience against British weather, ensuring you get years of reliable, insect-free ventilation.
How Do I Clean and Maintain My Window Screens?
Keeping your Premier Screens in top condition is incredibly simple. We’ve designed them to be as low-maintenance as possible.
For a quick clean, a soft brush or the brush attachment on your vacuum is perfect for removing dust or cobwebs. For a more thorough clean once or twice a year:
- Use a soft, damp cloth with a little mild, soapy water.
- Gently wipe down both the mesh and the aluminium frame.
- Rinse with a clean, damp cloth and let it air dry.
There’s no need for harsh chemical cleaners, as they could damage the finish. On our retractable screens, also give the guide tracks a quick check to ensure they’re clear of debris—this will keep them running smoothly.
What Is the Best Screen for Tiny Insects Like Midges?
If you live in a rural area, near water, or in parts of the country prone to midges, our superfine midge mesh is exactly what you need.
This specialised mesh has a much tighter weave than our standard insect mesh. This creates a physical barrier that’s impenetrable for even the smallest pests, all while maintaining excellent airflow and visibility. It’s the ultimate choice from Premier Screens for enjoying a cool breeze without the irritation of tiny, biting insects.
Ready to enjoy an insect-free home with a solution designed for your windows? At Premier Screens Ltd, we provide bespoke, high-quality screens made right here in the UK. Get your instant online quote or explore our full range today.
