How to Choose the Right Screen Mesh for Your Pool Enclosure: 18x14 vs. 20x20 No-See-Um
Selecting the right screen mesh for your pool enclosure is more than just a minor detail—it's a decision that impacts everything from visibility and airflow to insect protection and durability. In Florida's unique climate, with its combination of intense sun, high humidity, frequent storms, and abundant insect life, choosing the appropriate screen mesh becomes even more critical.
Many homeowners default to whatever option their contractor recommends without understanding the significant differences between mesh types and how those differences affect daily enjoyment of their pool area. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the perfect screen mesh for your specific situation, with a particular focus on the two most popular options: standard 18x14 mesh and finer 20x20 No-See-Um mesh.
By the end of this article, you'll have the knowledge to make an informed decision that balances visibility, protection, durability, and cost—ensuring your pool enclosure serves your needs perfectly for years to come.
Understanding Screen Mesh Basics
Before diving into specific mesh types, it's important to understand what the numbers mean and how screen mesh is measured.
What Do the Numbers Mean?
Screen mesh is typically identified by two numbers, such as 18x14 or 20x20. These numbers represent the mesh count—specifically, how many openings there are per square inch in each direction:
The first number indicates the number of openings across (horizontally)
The second number indicates the number of openings up and down (vertically)
So, 18x14 mesh has 18 openings per inch horizontally and 14 openings per inch vertically, while 20x20 mesh has 20 openings in both directions.
Material Composition
Most pool enclosure screens are made from fiberglass coated with vinyl (PVC) for several reasons:
Weather Resistance: Holds up well against Florida's harsh UV rays
Flexibility: Less likely to tear during installation
Corrosion Resistance: Doesn't react with pool chemicals
Cost-Effectiveness: Provides good value compared to alternatives
Higher-end options may include additives for enhanced UV protection or antimicrobial properties to prevent mildew growth—particularly valuable in Florida's humid environment.
Standard 18x14 Mesh: The Traditional Choice
Characteristics of 18x14 Mesh
Standard 18x14 mesh has been the go-to choice for pool enclosures for decades, and for good reason:
Visibility and Aesthetics
The larger openings of 18x14 mesh provide excellent visibility, making it almost transparent when viewed straight on. This creates a more open feeling and better connection with the surrounding landscape.
Visual Impact: When standing inside your enclosure, 18x14 mesh seems to "disappear," allowing for unobstructed views of your garden, golf course, or waterfront.
Airflow and Ventilation
One of the biggest advantages of 18x14 mesh is superior airflow:
Allows approximately 15-20% more airflow than 20x20 mesh
Creates a cooler environment during hot Florida summers
Helps reduce humidity inside the enclosure
Allows smoke to escape more easily when grilling
Comfort Factor: The improved airflow can make your pool area feel 3-5 degrees cooler during summer months—a significant difference in comfort when temperatures soar.
Light Transmission
Standard 18x14 mesh allows approximately 80-85% light transmission, which means:
Brighter pool area
Better plant growth if you have potted plants inside your enclosure
Less artificial lighting needed for evening use
More natural feeling environment
Insect Protection
While 18x14 mesh keeps out most common insects, it has limitations:
Effectively blocks mosquitoes, flies, and larger insects
May allow very small insects like no-see-ums (biting midges) to pass through
Provides good general protection for most inland areas
Ideal Situations for 18x14 Mesh
Standard 18x14 mesh is typically the best choice when:
You're located in an inland area away from standing water
Maximum visibility and airflow are priorities
You don't have significant issues with no-see-ums or other tiny insects
You want to minimize the "caged in" feeling
Your property doesn't have many pine trees nearby
Cost Consideration: 18x14 mesh is typically 10-15% less expensive than 20x20 mesh, both for the material itself and the installation (as it's easier to work with).
20x20 No-See-Um Mesh: Enhanced Protection
Characteristics of 20x20 Mesh
The finer 20x20 No-See-Um mesh has gained popularity in recent years, particularly in certain environments:
Insect Protection
The primary advantage of 20x20 mesh is superior insect protection:
Blocks virtually all insects, including tiny no-see-ums (biting midges)
Creates a more sealed environment
Particularly valuable near coastal areas, lakes, or wetlands where smaller insects thrive
Provides peace of mind for those sensitive to insect bites
Health Consideration: For family members with severe reactions to insect bites or those with compromised immune systems, the additional protection of 20x20 mesh can be medically significant.
Debris Blocking
The finer mesh provides enhanced protection against environmental debris:
Better at blocking pine needles, small leaves, and plant material
Reduces the amount of dust and pollen entering your pool area
Keeps out smaller seed pods and flower parts
Minimizes pool maintenance by keeping more debris out of the water
Maintenance Impact: Pool owners who switch from 18x14 to 20x20 mesh typically report a 30-40% reduction in skimmer basket cleaning frequency.
Privacy Enhancement
While not designed specifically for privacy, 20x20 mesh does offer a slight privacy advantage:
Slightly more difficult to see through at an angle
Creates a subtle visual barrier while maintaining outward visibility
Reduces the "fishbowl effect" during evening hours when interior lights are on
UV Protection
The denser weave provides marginally better UV protection:
Blocks approximately 5-7% more UV radiation than 18x14 mesh
Offers slightly better protection for furniture and flooring against fading
Creates a slightly more shaded environment
Potential Drawbacks of 20x20 Mesh
The enhanced protection comes with some trade-offs:
Reduced Airflow
The smaller openings restrict airflow by approximately 15-20% compared to 18x14 mesh, which means:
Potentially higher temperatures inside the enclosure during summer months
Slightly increased humidity levels
Less natural cooling effect
Smoke from grilling may linger longer
Climate Consideration: In particularly hot or humid areas, this reduced airflow can make a noticeable difference in comfort during summer months.
Slightly Reduced Visibility
The finer mesh is slightly more visible than standard mesh:
Creates a subtle "screen door effect" that's more noticeable than with 18x14 mesh
Slightly darkens the enclosure (blocks about 5-7% more light)
More noticeable when viewed at an angle
Increased Tension and Installation Challenges
The finer mesh creates more surface area, which means:
Requires more precise installation to maintain proper tension
May show sagging more readily if not properly installed
Slightly higher risk of tearing during installation
Often requires professional installation for best results
Ideal Situations for 20x20 Mesh
No-See-Um 20x20 mesh is typically the best choice when:
You're located near the coast, lakes, or wetlands where tiny insects are prevalent
Your property has pine trees nearby (to block pine needles)
Maximum insect protection is a priority over maximum airflow
You have family members who are particularly sensitive to insect bites
You want to minimize pool maintenance related to debris
Expert Insight: Our customers in coastal areas who switch to 20x20 mesh consistently report a dramatic reduction in tiny insect problems, particularly during dawn and dusk hours when no-see-ums are most active.
Specialty Screen Options Beyond the Basics
While 18x14 and 20x20 are the most common choices, several specialty options are worth considering for specific situations:
Pet Screen
Designed specifically for households with pets, this reinforced screen material:
Features a significantly stronger mesh that resists tears from pet claws
Is approximately 7 times stronger than standard screen
Maintains good visibility despite the reinforcement
Typically comes in 18x14 mesh configuration
Product Recommendation: After testing multiple pet screen products, we recommend Phifer PetScreen ($89.99 per roll) for its optimal balance of strength and visibility. While more expensive than standard screening, its durability makes it cost-effective for pet owners in the long run.
Solar Screen
For enclosures with western or southern exposure that receive intense sunlight:
Blocks 70-90% of UV rays and heat
Reduces enclosure temperature by up to 15 degrees
Provides significant energy savings for adjacent rooms
Available in various densities (80%, 90% blockage)
Typically darker in color (usually charcoal or black)
Consideration: Solar screen significantly reduces visibility compared to standard options and creates a much darker environment inside the enclosure.
Florida Glass
This specialty screen product offers:
Enhanced privacy while maintaining outward visibility
Superior wind resistance
Better temperature control
A unique appearance that resembles tinted glass from a distance
Cost Note: Florida Glass typically costs 2-3 times more than standard screening but offers unique benefits for those seeking additional privacy or wind protection.
Phifer BetterVue
This premium screen option features:
Enhanced visibility compared to standard screens
Improved airflow characteristics
Superior insect protection
Better durability against environmental factors
Product Review: In our testing, Phifer BetterVue ($74.99 per roll) offers approximately 25% better visibility than standard 18x14 mesh while maintaining similar insect protection. It's an excellent middle-ground option for those who can't decide between standard and No-See-Um mesh.
Practical Considerations for Your Decision
Beyond the technical specifications, several practical factors should influence your choice:
Geographic Location
Your specific location within Florida significantly impacts which screen is most appropriate:
Coastal Areas
If you're within 5-10 miles of the coast:
No-see-ums and salt spray are typically more prevalent
20x20 mesh is often the better choice
Consider corrosion-resistant frame coatings as well
Inland Areas
For properties away from the coast:
Larger insects like mosquitoes are the primary concern
Heat and humidity management become more important
18x14 mesh often provides a better balance of protection and comfort
Heavily Wooded Areas
If your property has significant tree coverage, especially pines:
Small debris is a constant challenge
20x20 mesh helps keep pine needles and small leaves out
Consider darker screen colors that hide debris accumulation
Family Needs and Sensitivities
Consider the specific needs of your household:
Allergies: If family members have pollen allergies, 20x20 mesh reduces pollen infiltration
Insect Sensitivities: For those with severe reactions to insect bites, 20x20 is the safer choice
Heat Sensitivity: If family members are particularly sensitive to heat, 18x14 provides better airflow
Pets: Households with cats or dogs should consider pet screen for lower panels
Maintenance Preferences
Be honest about your maintenance habits:
Low Maintenance Preference: 20x20 mesh requires less frequent cleaning of pool filters and skimmers
Regular Maintainers: Those who don't mind routine maintenance might prefer the better airflow of 18x14
Professional Service Users: If you use pool maintenance services, debris reduction might be less important
Budget Considerations
While the price difference isn't enormous, it is a factor:
20x20 No-See-Um mesh typically costs 10-15% more than standard 18x14
Installation labor may be slightly higher for 20x20 due to increased difficulty
Specialty screens like Pet Screen or Florida Glass can cost significantly more
Value Insight: When amortized over the 7-10 year lifespan of quality screen material, the price difference between 18x14 and 20x20 mesh amounts to just a few dollars per month—often making it worth choosing based on features rather than cost.
Installation and Replacement Considerations
Whether you're rescreening an existing enclosure or building new, these factors affect your screen choice:
New Construction vs. Rescreening
For new construction, you have complete flexibility in your choice. For rescreening:
Ensure your existing frame can support the tension of finer mesh if upgrading to 20x20
Consider upgrading only the most problematic panels rather than the entire enclosure
Discuss frame condition with your contractor before selecting a heavier specialty screen
Mixed Applications
Some homeowners opt for a strategic mix of screen types:
20x20 mesh on roof panels to block more debris
18x14 on walls for better visibility and airflow
Pet screen on lower panels where pets might come in contact
Solar screen on western exposures to block afternoon sun
Professional Tip: Our DIY Pool Enclosure Maintenance Course includes a section on strategic screen selection for different panels of your enclosure, helping you create a customized solution for your specific situation.
Color Options
While most screens come in charcoal (dark gray) or black, the choice affects both appearance and functionality:
Charcoal: Less visible from inside, better outward visibility
Black: Slightly better insect visibility (insects stand out against the black), slightly reduced outward visibility
Gray/Silver: Less common, but provides a lighter appearance with slightly reduced visibility
Aesthetic Consideration: Darker screens like charcoal and black essentially "disappear" when you're looking through them, while lighter colors are more noticeable but reflect more heat.
Product Reviews: Screen Mesh Brands and Options
After testing numerous screen products over the years, here are our recommendations:
Standard 18x14 Mesh OptionsPhifer 18/14 Standard Screen
Price: $54.99 per roll
Pros: Excellent visibility, good durability, widely available
Cons: Standard UV protection only
Best for: General-purpose applications away from coastal areas
Rating: 4.5/5
ADFORS 18x14 UltraVue
Price: $59.99 per roll
Pros: Enhanced visibility, good tensile strength
Cons: Slightly higher cost, limited color options
Best for: Those prioritizing maximum visibility
Rating: 4.3/5
New York Wire 18x14 Premium
Price: $49.99 per roll
Pros: Cost-effective, good general performance
Cons: Slightly less UV resistant than premium brands
Best for: Budget-conscious projects
Rating: 4/5
20x20 No-See-Um Mesh OptionsPhifer 20/20 No-See-Um Screen
Price: $64.99 per roll
Pros: Excellent insect protection, good durability, consistent quality
Cons: Premium price
Best for: Coastal areas and maximum insect protection
Rating: 4.7/5
ADFORS 20x20 TuffScreen
Price: $69.99 per roll
Pros: Enhanced tear resistance, good insect protection
Cons: Highest cost in category, slightly reduced visibility
Best for: Areas with high wind or debris concerns
Rating: 4.4/5
New York Wire 20x20 VisionGuard
Price: $59.99 per roll
Pros: Good value, decent visibility for No-See-Um mesh
Cons: Slightly less tear-resistant than premium options
Best for: Value-conscious buyers in insect-prone areas
Rating: 4.2/5
Specialty Screen ReviewsPhifer PetScreen
Price: $89.99 per roll
Pros: Exceptional tear resistance, good for households with cats or dogs
Cons: Slightly reduced visibility, higher cost
Best for: Lower panels in pet households
Rating: 4.8/5 for pet applications
Phifer SunScreen 80%
Price: $79.99 per roll
Pros: Excellent heat reduction, UV protection, energy savings
Cons: Significantly reduced visibility, darker environment
Best for: Western exposures or areas needing heat reduction
Rating: 4.6/5 for heat reduction
Florida Glass Screen
Price: $129.99 per roll
Pros: Enhanced privacy, superior wind resistance, unique appearance
Cons: Highest cost, reduced airflow
Best for: Privacy-focused applications or high-wind areas
Rating: 4.5/5 for specialty applications
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Your choice of screen mesh can affect whether DIY installation is feasible:
DIY Considerations
If you're considering installing screen yourself:
18x14 mesh is more forgiving for DIY installation
Proper tension is easier to achieve with standard mesh
Specialty screens often require professional tools and techniques
Our DIY Pool Enclosure Maintenance Course provides detailed guidance for those wanting to attempt screen installation themselves
Professional Installation Benefits
Professional installation offers several advantages:
Proper tension that prevents sagging and premature wear
Expertise in handling specialty materials like 20x20 mesh
Typically includes warranty coverage
Often more cost-effective in the long run due to longer lifespan
Service Highlight: Our professional rescreening service includes a free consultation to help you select the optimal screen type for your specific situation. Contact us to schedule your no-obligation assessment.
Making Your Final Decision: A Step-by-Step Approach
To help you make the best choice for your specific situation, follow this decision process:
Step 1: Assess Your EnvironmentHow close are you to water bodies (ocean, lakes, canals)?
What types of trees surround your property?
What is your primary sun exposure direction?
What insects are most problematic in your area?
Step 2: Consider Your Priorities
Rank these factors in order of importance to you:
Maximum insect protection
Optimal visibility and aesthetics
Airflow and temperature comfort
Debris reduction and maintenance
Budget constraints
Step 3: Evaluate Special NeedsDo you have pets that might contact the screen?
Do family members have allergies or insect bite sensitivities?
Do you frequently entertain in your pool area?
Do you need enhanced privacy?
Step 4: Consider a Mixed Approach
Rather than choosing one screen type for your entire enclosure, consider:
Using 20x20 mesh on the roof for debris protection
Installing 18x14 on walls for visibility and airflow
Adding specialty screens in specific problem areas
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
Choosing between 18x14 and 20x20 mesh—or considering specialty options—is a decision that will impact your daily enjoyment of your pool enclosure for years to come. By understanding the specific advantages and limitations of each option, you can make an informed choice that perfectly balances your needs for insect protection, visibility, airflow, and maintenance.
Remember that there's no universally "best" screen mesh—only the best option for your specific situation. By considering your geographic location, family needs, maintenance preferences, and budget, you can select a screen solution that enhances your Florida lifestyle.
For personalized advice on selecting the perfect screen mesh for your pool enclosure, our experts at Screening Dunrite are always available to help. Our DIY Pool Enclosure Maintenance Course also provides detailed information on screen selection and maintenance, while our Hurricane Preparation Guide offers additional insights on selecting screen materials that stand up to Florida's challenging weather.
⸻
This article was written by the experts at Screening Dunrite, Florida's trusted pool enclosure specialists since 2010. For more information about our services or to schedule a consultation, visit www.screeningdunrite.com.
⸻
Keywords: pool enclosure screen mesh, 18x14 vs 20x20 screen, no-see-um mesh Florida, pool screen selection, Florida pool enclosure screen, pet screen for pool enclosure, screen mesh comparison, pool cage screen types, Florida screen mesh options, best screen for pool enclosure
