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Winter’s colder weather is behind us (for the most part), and many of us are ready to enjoy gentle spring breezes and warmer summer weather. We open our doors to welcome in some fresh air but often use a screen door to keep bugs and critters out.
As pet parents, our screens aren’t always in the best shape. Our cats may use the screen door as a giant scratch pad while our dogs paw at the screen to let us know they want to come in or go out. This may cause your screen to tear or break, completely negating the screen door’s purpose. So what can you do?
There a few different options to consider, from replacing the screening in your current screen door to adding a screen curtain that allows for pet entry.
What To Know About Pet-Proof Screens
If you’re looking to replace the flimsy screen on your current door, the good news is that screen repair is a relatively easy process! But because screen doors aren’t one-size-fits-all, they require a little time and effort on your part. Typically sold in rolls, screens will need to be cut and installed into the frame of your door. Be sure to read the steps and list of required materials to ensure that you have everything you need before you begin.
And remember: not all screens are created equal. Standard screens may not stand up to the additional wear and tear that pets can bring, and you’ll need something with added strength to prevent holes from forming in your new screen.
Read below to see our list of top-reviewed screens designed specifically for homes with pets.
If you’ve replaced a screen before and just need a roll of screening, this is one of the most highly rated pet-proof screen rolls on Amazon.
This ADFORS Premium Pet Screen is made of PVC-coated polyester yarn, making it resistant to pet-inflicted damage. The coating is also flame resistant and GREENGUARD certified for low emissions. Its charcoal color was designed to absorb light, so you have more visibility to the outside.
Depending on the size of your door, you can buy the 36”x48” size for just under $10 or the 48”x48” screen for just over $12. ADFORS even has an app where you can see videos and helpful tips on the installation of your new screen. Please note that you’ll need a screen rolling tool and spline if you don’t already have them.
Helpful Review: “Soon after installation, I heard the familiar sound of claws testing out the new screen door. Despite even finding one cat 6 feet off the ground climbing up the screen, there was not a hint of damage to the screen material! It has also held in the sliding door frame very well, even with the weight of the cat suspended on it. No bulges or sags!”
If you’ve never replaced a screen, you may find it easier to get a kit that has everything you’ll need! Phifer’ pet-proof screening kit is highly rated on Amazon with 93% of reviewers giving it 4 or 5 stars. Many reviews note how well it has held up to dogs and cats.
This kit comes with a polyester screen that’s seven times stronger than a standard fiberglass screen. The kit includes installation instructions, spline, and a rolling tool to help you with the installation. You’ll be enjoying your new screen door before you know it!
Helpful Review: “Having two, one-year old cats who LOVE to climb, keeping my screen door open was impossible since they ripped a new screen in one day. This product REALLY works and is easy to install. Having zero manual labor skills, I was able to install the screen in about 15 minutes. Both cats climb the screen ALL day EVERY day to watch hummingbirds. The screen is still in perfect like-new condition and was installed 1.5 months ago. It’s a great product and would absolutely recommend and buy again!”
Alternatively, you could go for a mesh curtain instead of a screen door. The beauty of a curtain is that it allows your pet to come and go as they please without you having to get up to open the door for them. Keep in mind though, a curtain won’t be quite as effective at keeping insects and critters out of your house.
This HoneyBull magnetic screen is made of fiberglass and lined with 14 heavy-duty magnets. You can adjust the curtain to fit most door sizes. The weight and positioning of the magnets ensure that the curtain closes behind whoever walks through it. With a lifetime warranty, you can send this curtain back to Honeybull at any time for a full refund.
Helpful Review: “I love this for my dogs, I can leave the door open and no flies will come in. My dogs can go in and out as the please. Much cheaper then a doggie door.”
Pet-proofing your screen is a must if you want to enjoy the beautiful weather this season brings without worrying about damage from your pets. Luckily, there are many options available for you to improve your screen.