Some Bugs Bite. Others Sting. Know the Risks—and How New Screens Can Help Keep Them Out.
In Florida, bugs are a fact of life. But not all insects are created equal. Some are a nuisance, buzzing around your porch light or slipping inside when you open the door. Others? They bite, sting, or even pose health threats.
If your screens are old, damaged, or poorly fitted, you’re leaving a wide-open invitation for Florida’s creepiest guests to move right in.
Let’s look at what might be sneaking through those gaps—and what you can do to stop them with proper screen protection.
1. Gaps in Screens: Tiny Openings, Big Problems
Even the smallest tear or misfit frame can invite unwelcome pests inside.
Common screen issues include:
- Torn or frayed mesh
- Loose spline (the rubber that holds your screen in place)
- Bent or warped frames
- Gaps between the screen and window/door frames
These issues are basically VIP passes for insects like:
- Mosquitos
- No-see-ums (biting midges)
- Spiders
- Wasps
- Palmetto bugs (aka Florida’s flying roaches 😱)
2. Annoying vs. Dangerous: Know the Difference
Let’s break it down:
Annoying Bugs (But Still Frustrating)
- Flies: Spread bacteria and love to land on your food.
- Gnats: Buzz around your face, especially near fruit or trash.
- Lovebugs: They don’t bite, but leave acidic splatter on walls and screens.
Dangerous Bugs You Don’t Want Getting In
- Mosquitos: Can carry West Nile virus, Zika, and Dengue
- Wasps & Yellowjackets: Aggressive stingers that can trigger allergic reactions
- Fire Ants: Tiny but painful—especially indoors or near patios
- Kissing Bugs (Triatomine): Rare but dangerous; known to carry Chagas disease
- Brown Recluse & Black Widow Spiders: Rare but venomous and should be kept far from kids or pets
🛑 These are not just annoying—they’re a health hazard.
3. How Quality Screens Keep Insects Out
Installing the right screens can dramatically reduce bug intrusions—especially if you live near water, woods, or overgrown areas.
Key features of an insect-proof home:
- Tight mesh weave: No-see-ums can squeeze through standard screens. Ask for “No-See-Um mesh” to block even the tiniest invaders.
- Proper frame fitting: Professionally installed screens seal better, especially around patio enclosures and doors.
- Pet-Resistant or Tear-Resistant mesh: These options withstand clawing, wind, and weather damage—longer lasting means fewer gaps over time.
🛠️ Want to upgrade? We offer custom screen installs and repairs that keep your home sealed and safe from Florida’s worst bugs.
4. Screen Maintenance = Ongoing Protection
Even the best screen won’t last forever without routine upkeep.
Quick screen maintenance tips:
- Clean screens quarterly to reduce wear from dirt and pollen
- Trim shrubs or grass near screen enclosures to discourage nesting bugs
- Inspect for tears after big storms or heavy winds
- Consider an annual professional inspection (especially for pool cages or large patios)
5. When in Doubt, Screen It Out
If you’ve noticed more bugs than usual—especially biting or stinging ones—it may be time for:
- Full screen replacement
- Upgraded mesh material
- Re-sealing or re-installation of frames
We handle it all at Superior Outdoor Services:
✔️ Screen doors
✔️ Pool enclosures
✔️ Porch/patio screen systems
✔️ Custom installs and repair
🔧 Request a quote today to reclaim your peace of mind—and your bug-free home.