What Type of Screen Is Best for a Porch in the South?

If you live in Alabama or anywhere else in the Southeast, the best screen system for your porch is one that resists damage from pets, allows large open views, and holds up to the brutal summer sun. That’s why we recommend the SCREENEZE® system paired with high-quality screen fabrics like TuffScreen® or Phifer 1814 fiberglass. These options outperform older materials like aluminum and basic fiberglass and offer a cleaner, more modern finish—especially on big open porches with timber framing.

But let’s take a look at all your options and why SCREENEZE® stands out. If you’re looking for a skilled and reputable covered porch builder in the Birmingham area, visit our screened porch service page to see if we’d be a good match for your project.

Timothy Beckham

A licensed home remodeling expert with 25 years of experience, Timothy has helped countless homeowners tackle repairs, manage renovations, and make informed decisions about maintaining their homes.

Last Updated 4/22/2025 | Decks

Porch Screen Material Comparison

Fiberglass

Screeneze

Vinyl

Types of Porch Screens Available

Classic Aluminum Screen: Outdated and Fragile

Aluminum screen was once the go-to, but it’s become outdated. Here’s why:

Easily damaged – It tears and dents easily, especially during installation or if pets get too close.
Limited size – Best kept to 4-foot-wide openings to avoid buckling or sagging.
Old-school install – Must be hand-stretched and stapled, kind of like stretching a canvas. Labor-intensive and tricky to get just right.
Not pet-friendly – Even the smallest claw can rip a hole in it.

Unless you’re restoring a vintage structure, aluminum screening just doesn’t cut it anymore.

Fiberglass Screen: A Step Up, But Still Has Limits

Fiberglass screen is a major upgrade from aluminum:

More flexible and tear-resistant than aluminum.
Can be stretched over wider spans—up to about 6 feet—before sagging becomes an issue.
Darker color improves visibility and sun filtering.
Still installed by stapling and trimming, which requires covering edges with lattice or trim boards.
Better for pets, but not claw-proof—especially if you’ve got a determined cat or a jumpy pup.

It’s a good middle-ground solution, but if you’re looking for something truly long-lasting and modern, we’d take it a step further.

Vinyl-Coated Polyester Screens: Great For Pets While Still Budget Friendly

Vinyl-coated polyester screens are renowned for their exceptional strength and longevity, making them an ideal choice for homeowners seeking a durable and low-maintenance screening solution. These screens are particularly beneficial in high-traffic areas and homes with pets.

Key Benefits:

Superior Strength: Significantly stronger than standard fiberglass screens, offering enhanced resistance to tears and punctures.
Pet-Resistant: Reduces the likelihood of damage caused by pets.
Weather Resistant: Withstands harsh weather conditions, including high winds and intense sunlight.
Low Maintenance: Vinyl coating repels dirt and debris, making cleaning a simple task.
Extended Lifespan: Can last significantly longer than traditional screening materials.

Why We Recommend SCREENEZE®

Our favorite option by far? SCREENEZE®, hands down. It’s what we use on most of our high-end screened-in porches, and here’s why:

Holds Up to Pets – Paired with TuffScreen® or Textilene® Nano 50, SCREENEZE® resists damage from claws and jumping paws.
Huge Panel Sizes – You can create screen openings as large as 10 feet by 15 feet. That means fewer posts, better views, and a more open feel—especially perfect for timber-framed porches where the architecture deserves to shine.
Professional Look – SCREENEZE® uses a vinyl cap and aluminum base that stretch and secure the fabric without staples or visible screws. The result? Clean lines, crisp tension, and a tight finish that holds up season after season.
Easy to Repair – If a screen does get damaged, repairs are simpler. No need to tear everything down—you can replace just the panel that needs attention.
Multiple Color Options – Available in White, Sand, Bronze, and Clay to match your porch framing or trim.
Built for the South – SCREENEZE® is built to handle hot temps, strong sun, and even 140 mph wind gusts. The aluminum base resists expansion and contraction better than all-vinyl systems.

Final Thoughts: Our Favorite Screen for Alabama Porches

If you want a screened-in porch that looks amazing, holds up to the elements, and keeps your pets from ripping it to shreds, go with a SCREENEZE® system and a durable fabric like TuffScreen® or Phifer 1814.

Want help deciding what works best for your home? We’d love to talk through the options, show you samples, and build a porch you’ll love for years to come.