“Flyscreen” is a broad term that refers to a mesh product designed to protect a door or window opening, which allows fresh air to flow through your home. Flyscreens have a range of mesh options, with varying textures, colours & strengths – different types of flyscreens for different purposes.
In Australia, we’ve come to expect flyscreens as a basic human right, as there are serious implications of not having them in your home.
Mosquito-borne illnesses
An itchy mozzie bite is annoying enough. However, it can be a lot worse. Mosquitoes carry viruses & parasites that can cause severe illnesses. Recently Japanese encephalitis has begun spreading among our communities. Have you heard of Ross River fever, Barmah Forest virus, Malaria and Dengue fever? They are all transmitted by mosquitoes. Mozzie bites are not merely harmless red little bumps that cause mild to severe itching. The dangers of mosquito-borne diseases are very real & much closer to home than you might think.
Japanese encephalitis (JEV) is a virus that can cause serious disease. Spread by mosquito bites, it’s been known as endemic to parts of Asia & the Torres Strait region of Australia for years. However, in March 2022, JEV was declared a “Communicable Disease Incident of National Significance” by the Federal Department of Health, having infected people across 4 states. Infection is commonly asymptomatic, though on rare occasions, it can result in severe reactions, even death.
Barmah Forest virus & Ross River fever are transmitted by mosquitoes from animals to humans. These diseases are only found in Australia. They occur across the country, particularly around inland waterways & coastal regions. Infection by this virus is not fatal, though symptoms include fever, chills, headache, swollen joints, rashes & joint pain which can last more than six months.
Flyscreens protect the most vulnerable members of your household
Like all diseases, prevention is better than cure. Installing flyscreens is a practical, affordable approach to protect yourself & the most vulnerable members of your household – your children, the elderly – from being bitten by mosquitoes.
You could just close all your windows & doors. However, this can cause a host of respiratory problems, as your air quality is compromised due to poor ventilation. This can also lead to mould growth in your home which comes with its own issues. You could spend a lot more on mechanical air filtration & purification. In the end, however, you would have saved time & money had you chosen flyscreens from the outset.
Flyscreens can seem like ordinary additions to your homes, but they are far from ordinary. They protect the health of your loved ones, giving you peace of mind – which is priceless. The best part is, you have options. There are a lot of different types of flyscreens to choose from to suit your specific needs.
Different types of flyscreens
For each homeowner’s unique needs, there are different types of flyscreens available. The most obvious differences are in your choice of mesh, with some options listed below.
For most homes in Australia, fibreglass mesh is ideal as it will not rust, rot, nor corrode. It provides impressive visibility & airflow, which add to indoor air quality & comfort. This is also an economical choice for the budget-conscious homeowner.
If pets are part of your family, Pet MeshTM is the ideal flyscreen for you. This tough, reliable, pet-proof flyscreen is made from highly flexible fibreglass mesh that is much stronger than standard fibreglass & lasts much longer.
Aluminium wire mesh is made with a PVC coating to add strength & durability, making it less prone to damage caused by pets. It is also suitable for bushfire-prone areas where protection for a BAL-29 rating is required.
Stainless steel mesh is ideal for bushfire-prone areas, as it meets the Australian Standard for the construction of buildings in bushfire-prone areas (AS 3959-2009). With excellent rust & corrosion resistance, it’s also ideal for coastal areas.
For those with a view worth protecting, you will appreciate luxury screens. Sheer, fine strands mean the screen is virtually invisible. This advanced mesh, made with Japanese nanotechnology, also prevents the tiniest of insects, such as midges & sand flies, from entering your home.
Every home in Australia should have flyscreens
Flyscreens provide peace of mind. They offer protection without breaking the bank, so you can be safe at home. So while flyscreens are an affordable investment, the benefits can be priceless.
EHi supplies & installs flyscreens, along with a wide range of home improvement products: Blinds, awnings, security screens, shutters, & grilles. These products form the focus of our government – backed apprenticeship, which we’ve recently named the Cert iii in BASS G™.