Choose how the patio should feel
Retractable screens vs. glass patio enclosures
Screens keep a covered patio airy while managing bugs, sun, and privacy. Glass adds a more sheltered edge with clear views. EDG helps choose between them by the days you want to spend outside and the way your patio needs to open.
Start with the moments you want back
Warm evenings, fewer bugs
If mosquitoes or late-afternoon glare send you indoors, a motorized screen may meet the need while keeping the porch light and breezy. Choose the fabric around the main problem, then raise it when you want the full opening to the yard.
Cooler days, more shelter
If side wind and changing weather limit a covered seating area, movable glass may suit a longer seasonal window. Plan how far the panels open, where they park, and how fresh air enters when they are closed.
What changes from screens to glass?
Airflow
Mesh screens
Mesh lets air pass while lowered. Fabric openness changes how much breeze and daylight reach the seating area.
Glass enclosure
Closed panels reduce airflow. Open or partially open them for ventilation; the system also retains its designed ventilation gaps.
View and light
Mesh screens
Mesh remains visible when down. Raise it for an unobstructed opening; denser solar fabric changes the view and light.
Glass enclosure
Clear panels retain the view when closed, with glass reflections and hardware. Shade or blinds can address glare.
Bugs
Mesh screens
Insect mesh is the direct choice. EDG plans the side and bottom fit around the insects you want to keep out.
Glass enclosure
Movable glass is not a substitute for insect mesh, especially with panels open. A separate screen can serve that need.
Wind comfort
Mesh screens
Mesh can soften everyday side wind while remaining porous. The fabric and exposure determine the useful balance.
Glass enclosure
Rigid panels create a more sheltered seating area when closed. Weather protection still depends on the roof, drainage, and specified enclosure.
How it opens
Mesh screens
A motor raises the screen into a housing above the opening. The side tracks remain, and the travel path stays clear.
Glass enclosure
Panels slide, turn, or fold depending on the system. Panel overlap or the side stack affects the clear opening.
Retrofit scope
Mesh screens
Plan housing, track attachment, floor contact, power, and controls around the existing posts or walls.
Glass enclosure
Review panel support, roof or header, floor and threshold, drainage, and stacking space before choosing the glass layout.
Vinyl is another path worth considering
Retractable clear vinyl combines a roll-up opening with a less porous side barrier than mesh. It can suit seasonal wind comfort when you want visibility without a rigid glass-panel layout. Flexible vinyl has its own appearance, ventilation, and care needs. EDG compares those tradeoffs with the way you use the patio.
Plan a retractable vinyl patio enclosureOne glass option: Lumon movable glazing
EDG offers Lumon sliding and retractable glass systems. Sliding panels overlap along their tracks; retractable panels slide and turn to park at the side. Those opening paths suit different furniture and walkway layouts. Lumon’s uninsulated glazing is a ventilated outdoor enclosure, so the goal is seasonal shelter rather than a conditioned room addition.
Compare the whole installed project
A sound existing cover can be the starting point for either approach. EDG checks the structure, openings, floor, and drainage, then designs the screen or glass around them. Screens and glass can also work together when you want insect protection while the glass is open. Plan that pairing from the start.
Review screen pricing and glass enclosure costs for budget context. Compare the materials, preparation, installation, and comfort features included in your project.
See how screens fit an existing patioLet’s choose the enclosure around your patio.
EDG handles design, permitting, installation, and care for homeowners in the Chicago–Milwaukee corridor and the Sanibel area. Tell us your goals. Photos and measurements are optional.
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