Fly Screens | Made-to-Measure or Off-the-Shelf

Made-to-measure fly screens vs. off-the-shelf – what’s best for your home?

Whether you’re looking for fly screens for patio doors, or simply exploring the benefits of windows with fly screens, you’ll probably be wondering whether to buy a made-to-measure fly screen or an off-the-shelf DIY product.

This blog is to help you choose the right solution for your home and lifestyle, whether you want a quick fix or a long-term upgrade for your home.

What are fly screens?

Fly screens, also referred to as insect screens or bug screens, allow you to enjoy fresh air whilst helping to keep flies, wasps and other insects outside using a fine mesh.

UK summers are becoming much warmer and homeowners are leaving windows and doors open for longer to increase air flow, as a result fly screens for windows and doors are becoming increasingly popular to try reduce the number of insects entering the home.

Fly screens: off-the-shelf

Off-the-shelf or DIY fly screens can be a practical option if you’re looking for a quick, low-cost solution. They are pre-made in standard sizes and require trimming to fit your window or door before installation. They are designed for a quick fix although all windows vary in size – even within the same house standard sizes vary from room to room and aren’t perfectly square. This means small gaps may be left around the screens, or the screens may rub in areas resulting in a finish which may not be as effective.

They can work well for temporary use but they may not provide the same precise fit and finish as made-to-measure and installed fly screens.

Fly screens: made-to-measure

If you’re looking for a long–lasting solution, and for areas of frequent use e.g. patio doors, then made-to-measure fly screens are a great solution. They offer a precise fit measured to the mm of your windows or doors, taking into consideration the locations of handles and how the window/door opens.

Our retractable pleated fly screens glide smoothly across the opening of windows and doors before folding neatly away when not in use, leaving your view unobstructed. For larger openings, such as fly screens for bifold doors, the screens move along a discreet track system, while the low-profile floor frame provides smooth operation with a clean and unobtrusive finish.

Measured professionally for your windows and doors, they create a close-fitting, snug seal that helps minimise gaps where insects could enter. They often use higher quality mesh materials as well to help reinforce the screen and the longevity.

How does each fly screen compare?

Off-the-shelf Fly Screens	Made-to-measure Fly Screens
Lower upfront cost	Tailored to your windows and doors
May require trimming to fit	Precise fit helps minimise gaps
Suitable for temporary use	Built for everyday use
Limited colours and styles	Choice of frame colours and mesh
Basic materials	Durable, high quality components
DIY installation	Professionally measured and installed

Fly screens for everyday use

Think about how often you’ll be using your fly screen.

A bedroom window that’s only opened occasionally has very different demands to a set of patio or bifold doors that’s used dozens of times a day during the summer.

Off-the-shelf fly screens can be a great seasonal solution, but lighter materials and DIY fixings may wear more quickly in busy areas.

Made-to-measure fly screens are designed for regular use, with sturdy frames and smooth retractable mechanisms and track systems that are built to withstand everyday opening and closing.

Integrating fly screens to your home

Fly screens don’t have to feel like an clunky afterthought to your home, or something that doesn’t fit in with the rest of your interior.

Off-the-shelf options are often limited in colour and design, while made-to-measure systems can be selected to complement your existing windows and doors.

Our retractable pleated fly screens are available in a choice of frame colours, allowing them to blend seamlessly with uPVC, aluminium or timber frames. When retracted, the mesh folds neatly away, leaving your windows and doors looking clean and uncluttered.

Made-to-measure fly screens can also be fitted behind existing shutters, creating a particularly discreet solution. The screen sits neatly behind the shutter frame, allowing you to keep your shutters while adding an extra layer of protection from insects – a great option for bedrooms!

Which option is right for you?

If you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly solution for occasional use, an off-the-shelf fly screen may be all you need.

However, if you want a long-lasting solution that fits perfectly, looks great in your home and is designed for everyday use, made-to-measure fly screens are well worth the investment. They’re particularly beneficial for larger windows and doors where durability, ease of use and a seamless finish make all the difference.

If you’re considering fly screens for windows or doors, our team is here to help. From your initial consultation through to professional installation and dedicated aftercare, we’ll help you find the right fly screen solution for your home. Our made-to-measure fly screens are backed by a product warranty, giving you added confidence and peace of mind after the installation.

Interested in a consultation or estimate?

If you’re interested in made-to-measure fly screens, we’d love to hear from you. The first steps would be to get in touch via our contact form or calling our team on 020 8662 0126, to discuss your requirements. We can then either provide an estimate based on your approximate dimensions or arrange for one of our surveyors to visit for a home consultation and discuss the range of fly screens we can offer for your home.