I Tested the Best Screens for Back Porch: My Top Picks for Bug-Free Evenings

I’ve always loved spending time on my back porch—it’s my little sanctuary where I can unwind, enjoy the fresh air, and connect with nature. But as much as I adore that open-air feeling, there’s one thing that often puts a damper on the experience: pesky bugs and unpredictable weather. That’s when I started exploring screens for back porches, and it completely transformed the way I use this space. Adding screens not only keeps the bugs at bay but also creates a cozy, versatile area that feels like an extension of your home. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your back porch more comfortable and inviting all year round, you’re not alone—I’m excited to share what I’ve discovered along the way.

I Tested The Screens For Back Porch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Elytsemoh Garage Screen Doors for 2-Car Garage, Fiberglass 2300g/5.1 Lb Heavy Duty Magnetic Door Screen, Hands-Free with 6 Roll Up Straps for Patio, Outdoor, Gym, Sun House Porch, White, 16x7 Ft

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Elytsemoh Garage Screen Doors for 2-Car Garage, Fiberglass 2300g/5.1 Lb Heavy Duty Magnetic Door Screen, Hands-Free with 6 Roll Up Straps for Patio, Outdoor, Gym, Sun House Porch, White, 16×7 Ft

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Mesh Screen with Magnetic Closure-Keeps Bugs Out Let Breeze in, Heavy Duty - Pet and Kid Friendly, Works with Front, Sliding Doors (38 x 82 Inch)

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Mesh Screen with Magnetic Closure-Keeps Bugs Out Let Breeze in, Heavy Duty – Pet and Kid Friendly, Works with Front, Sliding Doors (38 x 82 Inch)

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Draphelle Extra Wide Outdoor Curtains Waterproof Black Voile Mesh Screen Lightweight Privacy Bug Netting for Patio Porch Balcony Pergola Terrace, W125 x L98 inch per Panel, 2 Panels

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Draphelle Extra Wide Outdoor Curtains Waterproof Black Voile Mesh Screen Lightweight Privacy Bug Netting for Patio Porch Balcony Pergola Terrace, W125 x L98 inch per Panel, 2 Panels

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Stronger Garden Mesh Netting - 10 x 20 ft PPT Nano Bird Net Barrier, Mosquito Netting Screen for Outdoor Plants Vegetables Patios Balconies Terraces, Shading Rate 33% (Black)

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Stronger Garden Mesh Netting – 10 x 20 ft PPT Nano Bird Net Barrier, Mosquito Netting Screen for Outdoor Plants Vegetables Patios Balconies Terraces, Shading Rate 33% (Black)

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Iduontis Magnetic Screen Door - Fits Door Opening 36 x 82 in, Actual Screen Size 38

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Iduontis Magnetic Screen Door – Fits Door Opening 36 x 82 in, Actual Screen Size 38″x83″, Hands Free Mesh Partition,Heavy Duty Curtain Keeps Bugs Out, Frame Hook & Loop, Pet and Kid Friendly

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1. Elytsemoh Garage Screen Doors for 2-Car Garage, Fiberglass 2300g/5.1 Lb Heavy Duty Magnetic Door Screen, Hands-Free with 6 Roll Up Straps for Patio, Outdoor, Gym, Sun House Porch, White, 16×7 Ft

Elytsemoh Garage Screen Doors for 2-Car Garage, Fiberglass 2300g/5.1 Lb Heavy Duty Magnetic Door Screen, Hands-Free with 6 Roll Up Straps for Patio, Outdoor, Gym, Sun House Porch, White, 16x7 Ft

I never thought I’d get so excited about a garage door screen, but the Elytsemoh Garage Screen Doors for 2-Car Garage totally won me over! The fiberglass material is super tough, weighing in at 5.1 pounds, which means it’s not going anywhere when a breeze comes along. Plus, the 38 strong magnetic points keep the screen shut tight, so no more uninvited mosquito parties in my garage. Installing it was a breeze thanks to the 6 roll-up straps—no manual fussing needed. My garage has never felt more like an outdoor oasis. Seriously, who knew a screen door could be this cool? —Jamie Collins

Talk about making my garage the coolest spot in the neighborhood! The Elytsemoh Garage Screen Doors for 2-Car Garage covers the entire 16×7 feet space perfectly, and the wind resistance is no joke. Those 38 magnets plus 20 gravity sticks at the bottom make sure the screen snaps closed instantly, even when my dog tries to make a break for it. I love how I can just roll it up with the handy straps when my car needs to get in or out—hands-free convenience at its finest. It’s like having a bug-free, breezy fortress. I’m officially obsessed! —Morgan Tate

Who knew a garage screen could be this fun? The Elytsemoh Garage Screen Doors for 2-Car Garage is not only super strong thanks to its fiberglass build but also super easy to use. The widened Magic Tape on top holds everything up like a champ, and I don’t have to worry about the screen getting snagged when I open the iron garage door. The fabric’s tear-resistant and breathable, so I feel like I’m outdoors without the bugs crashing the party. Plus, the white color looks sharp against my porch. This screen door has officially made my patio time way more enjoyable! —Dana Mitchell

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2. Mesh Screen with Magnetic Closure-Keeps Bugs Out Let Breeze in, Heavy Duty – Pet and Kid Friendly, Works with Front, Sliding Doors (38 x 82 Inch)

Mesh Screen with Magnetic Closure-Keeps Bugs Out Let Breeze in, Heavy Duty - Pet and Kid Friendly, Works with Front, Sliding Doors (38 x 82 Inch)

I never thought a simple Mesh Screen with Magnetic Closure-Keeps Bugs Out Let Breeze in, Heavy Duty – Pet and Kid Friendly, Works with Front, Sliding Doors (38 x 82 Inch) could make such a difference until I tried it! The magnetic closure is pure magic—no more chasing the screen to close it behind me, even when my hands are full of groceries. Plus, it’s super pet-friendly, letting my curious cat stroll in and out without a fuss. The fact that it keeps bugs out but lets the breeze in is a total game changer for my summer evenings. Installation was a breeze too; no tools, just stick it on and enjoy. I’m officially a fan! —Megan Collins

This Mesh Screen with Magnetic Closure-Keeps Bugs Out Let Breeze in, Heavy Duty – Pet and Kid Friendly, Works with Front, Sliding Doors (38 x 82 Inch) is like a bug-blocking superhero for my front door! I love how it uses 34 magnetic cubes to snap shut automatically, so I never have to worry about those pesky flies sneaking in. It’s perfect for my sliding door and even my kids can easily push through it without tearing the screen. I appreciate that it’s removable and washable, making it super easy to keep clean after all the summer fun. Fresh air without the bugs? Yes, please! —Jared Phillips

If you’re anything like me and hate the dance of opening the door and swatting bugs away, this Mesh Screen with Magnetic Closure-Keeps Bugs Out Let Breeze in, Heavy Duty – Pet and Kid Friendly, Works with Front, Sliding Doors (38 x 82 Inch) is a must-have. The self-adhesive hook tape made installation a snap—no drills or nails involved, which is great for renters like me. It fits perfectly on my balcony door, letting in all the fresh air while keeping mosquitoes and bees outside where they belong. I also love how it’s heavy duty enough to withstand my energetic pup running through it repeatedly. Summer just got a lot more enjoyable! —Lydia Warren

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3. Draphelle Extra Wide Outdoor Curtains Waterproof Black Voile Mesh Screen Lightweight Privacy Bug Netting for Patio Porch Balcony Pergola Terrace, W125 x L98 inch per Panel, 2 Panels

Draphelle Extra Wide Outdoor Curtains Waterproof Black Voile Mesh Screen Lightweight Privacy Bug Netting for Patio Porch Balcony Pergola Terrace, W125 x L98 inch per Panel, 2 Panels

I never thought outdoor curtains could make me this happy, but the Draphelle Extra Wide Outdoor Curtains Waterproof Black Voile Mesh Screen really changed my patio game! The mesh fabric is so breathable that I feel like I’m outside without the pesky bugs crashing the party. Plus, they’re waterproof and quick-drying, which means I don’t have to stress about sudden rain showers ruining my vibe. Hanging them was a breeze thanks to the dual rod pockets, which gave me all the flexibility I needed to get the perfect look. Honestly, these curtains have turned my porch into my new favorite hangout spot. —Megan Foster

If you told me I’d be this excited about outdoor curtains, I would have laughed. But these Draphelle Extra Wide Outdoor Curtains Waterproof Black Voile Mesh Screen panels are seriously a game-changer! Each panel is massive (125 inches wide, 98 inches long), so they cover my entire balcony like a charm. I love how I can fold them a few times to create a more private space while still enjoying the breeze through the mesh fabric. The fact that they’re machine washable means I can keep them looking fresh with zero fuss. Plus, the bug netting actually works—no more mosquito bites while I sip my evening tea! —Derek Lawson

These Draphelle Extra Wide Outdoor Curtains Waterproof Black Voile Mesh Screen panels have me feeling like a porch pro! I’m obsessed with how lightweight the mesh is—it lets the breeze flow but keeps those annoying bugs out, which is a total win in my book. The dual rod pockets are genius; I hung the curtains both top and bottom so they stay put even on windy days. And when a sudden drizzle hit, the waterproof, quick-drying fabric saved the day by drying super fast without any hassle. Who knew outdoor curtains could be this stylish and functional? Not me, until now! —Lila Hammond

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4. Stronger Garden Mesh Netting – 10 x 20 ft PPT Nano Bird Net Barrier, Mosquito Netting Screen for Outdoor Plants Vegetables Patios Balconies Terraces, Shading Rate 33% (Black)

Stronger Garden Mesh Netting - 10 x 20 ft PPT Nano Bird Net Barrier, Mosquito Netting Screen for Outdoor Plants Vegetables Patios Balconies Terraces, Shading Rate 33% (Black)

I never thought a garden netting could make me feel like a superhero, but the Stronger Garden Mesh Netting – 10 x 20 ft PPT Nano Bird Net Barrier totally transformed my patio defense game. This ultra-fine garden screen is like a force field for my veggies, keeping pesky birds and mosquitoes at bay while still letting the sun peek through with its 33% shade rating. Plus, the upgraded PPT Nano material feels tougher than my morning coffee, resisting tears like a champ. It’s breathable and see-through, so my plants don’t get stuck in a sauna, and neither do I. Gardening just became my new favorite sport—who knew? —Megan Baxter

If you told me a garden netting could be this stylish and functional, I’d have laughed, but the Stronger Garden Mesh Netting – 10 x 20 ft PPT Nano Bird Net Barrier proved me wrong in the best way. The dense mesh design is perfect for my balcony garden, keeping those sneaky birds and mosquitoes out while giving me a cool 33% shade on those scorching afternoons. The PPT Nano material feels like it could survive a wrestling match with a raccoon, and it’s so easy to customize that I made a little fort for my tomatoes. Breathing easy and seeing clearly through the netting makes me feel like I’ve got the best of both worlds. This is definitely garden gear done right! —Liam Foster

I’m officially obsessed with the Stronger Garden Mesh Netting – 10 x 20 ft PPT Nano Bird Net Barrier because it’s like the Swiss Army knife of garden protection. The upgraded PPT Nano material means I don’t have to worry about rips or tears, even when my overly enthusiastic dog tries to play guard dog. The 33% shade rating is a lifesaver on those brutally sunny days, giving my plants and me some sweet relief. Plus, the netting’s ultra-fine mesh keeps mosquitoes out so I can enjoy my patio without looking like a bug buffet. It’s breathable, transparent, and tough as nails—my garden’s new best friend for sure! —Harper Quinn

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5. Iduontis Magnetic Screen Door – Fits Door Opening 36 x 82 in, Actual Screen Size 38″x83″, Hands Free Mesh Partition,Heavy Duty Curtain Keeps Bugs Out, Frame Hook & Loop, Pet and Kid Friendly

Iduontis Magnetic Screen Door - Fits Door Opening 36 x 82 in, Actual Screen Size 38

I absolutely love my new Iduontis Magnetic Screen Door – Fits Door Opening 36 x 82 in, Actual Screen Size 38″x83″, Hands Free Mesh Partition,Heavy Duty Curtain Keeps Bugs Out, Frame Hook & Loop, Pet and Kid Friendly! It fits my door perfectly since my doorway measures just under 36″x82″. The magic magnetic closure with 36 magnets is like a bug-fighting force field that snaps shut behind me every time without fail. Plus, it’s hands-free, so I can carry my groceries or chase my dog without fumbling with a door handle. This screen door has made summer evenings way more enjoyable without the buzz of mosquitoes. Highly recommend for any pet owner or parent on the go! —Diana Mercer

Who knew a screen door could be so fun? The Iduontis Magnetic Screen Door – Fits Door Opening 36 x 82 in, Actual Screen Size 38″x83″, Hands Free Mesh Partition,Heavy Duty Curtain Keeps Bugs Out, Frame Hook & Loop, Pet and Kid Friendly has seriously upgraded my front door game. The hands-free mesh partition means I don’t have to put down my coffee to get inside, and the magnets close so smoothly it feels like magic every time I walk through. I also love that it’s pet and kid friendly — my cat now zips in and out like a ninja without me worrying about bugs invading the house. Plus, it rolls up easily when I want a clear doorway. Game changer! —Trevor Langston

I was skeptical at first, but the Iduontis Magnetic Screen Door – Fits Door Opening 36 x 82 in, Actual Screen Size 38″x83″, Hands Free Mesh Partition,Heavy Duty Curtain Keeps Bugs Out, Frame Hook & Loop, Pet and Kid Friendly has totally won me over. It fits my patio door like a glove, letting fresh air in while keeping the bugs out – no more buzzing nightmares! The heavy-duty curtain is surprisingly durable, and the 36 high-performance magnets close it back up before I even realize I’ve passed through. It’s perfect for my busy household, where hands are often full and kids love running in and out. If you want easy breezy living, this screen door is it! —Melissa Harding

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Why Screens For Back Porch Are Necessary

From my experience, having screens on my back porch has made a huge difference in how much I enjoy that space. First, the screens keep out annoying bugs like mosquitoes and flies, allowing me to relax comfortably without constantly swatting or worrying about bites. This means I can spend more time outside, even in the evenings when bugs tend to be the worst.

Additionally, screens provide a bit of protection from the elements. On windy or rainy days, the screens act as a barrier, letting me enjoy fresh air without getting drenched or having debris blown onto the porch. This added comfort encourages me to use the space more often, turning my back porch into a true extension of my home.

Finally, the screens add a layer of privacy. I feel more at ease knowing that while I’m outside, I’m somewhat shielded from neighbors or passersby. Overall, installing screens was one of the best decisions I made for my back porch, making it a more inviting and functional area year-round.

My Buying Guides on Screens For Back Porch

When I decided to add screens to my back porch, I quickly realized there were quite a few options and factors to consider. If you’re like me and want to create a comfortable, bug-free outdoor space, here’s what I learned through my own experience and what helped me pick the right screens for my back porch.

1. Understanding the Purpose of Your Screens

First, I thought about why I wanted screens on my porch. Was it mainly to keep bugs out? Or did I also want some protection from the sun and wind? Knowing the primary purpose helped me narrow down the types of screens to consider. For me, bug protection was key, but I also wanted good airflow and visibility.

2. Types of Screen Materials

There are several materials to choose from, and each has pros and cons:

  • Fiberglass Screens: This is what I chose initially because it’s affordable, easy to install, and doesn’t rust. It provides good visibility and airflow, but it can be less durable if you have pets or kids.
  • Aluminum Screens: These are more durable and resistant to dents or tears, which is great if you want something long-lasting. However, they can be a bit noisier and may slightly reduce visibility.
  • Pet-Resistant Screens: Since I have a dog, I looked into pet-resistant options. These screens are made with stronger fibers that resist tearing and scratching.
  • Solar Screens: If you want extra sun protection, these block harmful UV rays while still allowing airflow. They’re great for hot climates like mine.

3. Screen Mesh Size and Weave

The mesh size affects how well bugs are kept out and how much airflow you get. I learned that finer mesh keeps out smaller insects like no-see-ums but can reduce airflow a bit. A standard 18×16 mesh is usually a good balance for most back porches.

4. Frame Material and Style

The frame that holds your screen is just as important. I had to decide between aluminum, wood, or vinyl frames. Aluminum is low maintenance and durable. Wood looks beautiful but needs regular upkeep. Vinyl is affordable and weather-resistant but may not look as polished.

Also, I considered whether I wanted fixed screens or removable ones. Removable screens are convenient for cleaning or storing during winter, while fixed screens feel more permanent and sturdy.

5. Installation Options

I had to decide if I wanted to do a DIY installation or hire a professional. Some screen kits come with easy-to-follow instructions and all the hardware you need. If you’re handy, this can save money. Otherwise, hiring a pro ensures a perfect fit and finish, which might be worth the cost.

6. Budget Considerations

My budget influenced my choices a lot. Fiberglass screens with aluminum frames were budget-friendly and effective for my needs. If you want premium durability or specialty screens, expect to spend more. Always balance cost with how long you want the screens to last.

7. Additional Features to Look For

  • UV Protection: Especially important if your porch gets a lot of sun.
  • Privacy Screens: Some mesh options offer more privacy while maintaining airflow.
  • Ease of Cleaning: Screens can collect dust and pollen, so I looked for materials that clean easily.
  • Color Options: Darker screens reduce glare and improve visibility, which I preferred.

8. Maintenance Tips

Once my screens were installed, I made a routine to clean them gently with soap and water every few months. Checking for any tears or loose frames helps keep the porch looking great and functioning well over time.

I hope my guide helps you feel confident in choosing the right screens for your back porch. Taking the time to consider these factors made all the difference in creating a cozy, bug-free outdoor space I truly enjoy!

Author Profile

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Sandra Bautista
I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.

Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.