Aluminum Mosquito Screens in Granada: Guide and Maintenance Tips

In Granada, a mosquito screen isn’t a whim: between hot nights, open windows, and that moment when “just one mosquito” gets in (and then won’t let you sleep), it becomes essential. The first step is choosing the type based on your routine. If you open and close the window a thousand times a day, a roll-up works great because it goes up and down quickly and doesn’t get in the way. If you have a door to a terrace or patio—especially in apartments with a balcony—the sliding one is practical: just slide it and you’re done, no banging. And if you have little ones or pets? Then it’s worth asking for reinforced mesh, because the standard one holds up, but a cat climbing or a child pushing with a toy eventually takes its toll. A real example: in a kitchen with a tilt-and-turn window, a fixed screen seems like “the easy option,” but then you remember you need to stick your arm out to clean or hang laundry; in that case, a pleated or roll-up screen saves you that hassle. In short: think about how you use that window, not just about “installing a mosquito screen.”

80% of problems come from the same thing: measuring wrong or overlooking how your window closes. With aluminum, a couple of millimeters can make the insect screen rub, pop out, or end up with gaps where bugs sneak in. The most practical approach is to measure the opening at three points (top, middle, and bottom), because in many homes the frame isn’t perfectly square. And watch out for shutters: if you have a shutter box and tight guides, you need a profile that won’t hit when the slat comes down. Another common mistake: choosing a very tight weave thinking “zero insects,” then complaining that less air comes in. In Granada, in summer, you notice it. I usually recommend balance: a standard mesh to ventilate well and, if there are allergies or lots of dust, an anti-pollen mesh in bedrooms, but knowing it reduces airflow somewhat. Also look at the closing system: well-placed magnets or brush seals prevent that little side gap that seems like nothing… until the mosquito gets in right at 3:00.

An aluminum insect screen can take a lot, but if you handle it roughly, it shows fast: noises when raising it, slack mesh, or the track full of grime. The basics: once a month (or every two if there isn’t much dust), run a soft brush or vacuum along the tracks and then wipe with a damp cloth. If it’s a retractable one, don’t yank it down like an old roller shutter: lower it straight and without banging so the spring doesn’t suffer. If it’s a sliding one, check the rollers: when they start to “scrape,” it’s almost always dirt or a lack of adjustment, not that it’s broken. For the mesh, no scouring pads or harsh products; warm water and neutral soap, and if there’s kitchen grease, a few drops of a mild degreaser and a quick rinse. A very at-home trick: if you notice air coming in from one side, check the weatherstrip/brush seal; it’s cheap, and replacing it brings the closure back “like new.” And if you live in a very windy area, make sure the frame is well secured: a loose screen vibrates, makes noise, and eventually goes out of square.