When was mesh screen invented?

Mesh screens, commonly referred to as fly screens, insect screens, or bug screens, serve as a primary barrier against disease-carrying insects that attempt to enter our homes. But who was the innovator that first conceived the idea of using a fabric with a weave fine enough to block tiny insects like flies and mosquitoes while still allowing for airflow?

Jiushen provides professional and reliable services.

The earliest reference we have dates back to a publication of American Farmer, where the term "Woven wire for window screens" was noted. An advertisement for wire window screens also appeared in Boyd's Blue Book during that period.

In 1849, two wire window screens were showcased at Quincy Hall in Boston, a crossroads of commercial activity by the harbor.

The Spark of Innovation

In 1850, Gilbert, Bennett and Company began producing wire mesh sieves for food processing. An employee discovered that the wire cloth could be coated in grey paint and marketed as window screens. This product quickly gained popularity, significantly bolstering Gilbert & Bennett's contributions to the economic landscape of Redding, Connecticut, which even hosts a Cultural Centre in their honor.

In 1867, Bayley and McCluskey obtained a U.S. Patent for screened rooftop railcar windows, which provided ventilation while preventing sparks, cinders, dust, and other debris from invading the passenger compartment.

By 1884, the E.T. Barnum Company based in Detroit, Michigan, was advertising screens that were sold by the square foot. It is interesting to note that, at that time, window screens specifically designed for insect prevention were not patented in the United States. By the end of the 19th century, however, multiple patents were granted for various innovations in window screen designs.

Current State of Mesh Screens

Nowadays, most homes in Australia, Europe, the United States, and Canada come equipped with screens on their windows and doors. We have a variety of mesh materials available, allowing us to select the most suitable option for our needs. For instance, fiberglass mesh is commonly used solely for insect protection, while metal and bronze screens can safeguard against insects, debris, embers, or even small animals.

In addition, we now have a wide range of screening solutions to accommodate different types of windows and doors. These include fixed screens, retractable screens, pleated screens, and sliding screens, all available in various colors. The primary objective remains to not only enhance a home's aesthetics but also to protect it from the nuisance of insects.

Artilux Australia prides itself on pioneering innovative designs within the mesh screen industry. Our products are carefully crafted to complement existing window frames, honoring the design and architecture of contemporary homes. We believe the best mesh screens are those that are either nearly invisible or, when visible, can truly beautify the overall look.

If you would like a Free On-Site Consultation with one of our screening specialists, please click here.

A window screen, also known as an insect screen, bug screen, fly screen, flywire, wire mesh, or window net, is designed to cover the opening of a window. Commonly made of metal, fibreglass, plastic wire, or other synthetic materials, it is stretched over a frame of wood or metal. Its primary function is to prevent leaves, debris, bugs, and birds from entering buildings while allowing fresh air to circulate freely.

Most houses in Australia, the United States, Canada, and other parts of the world are fitted with screens on windows to hinder the entry of flying insects like mosquitoes and wasps. In regions such as northern United States and Canada, screens were traditionally replaced with glass storm windows during winter. However, combination storm and screen windows are now available, allowing both glass and screen panels to slide up and down.

For screens mounted on aluminium frames, the material is typically cut slightly larger than the frame, laid over it, and secured with a flexible vinyl cord known as a spline. This spline is pressed into a groove within the frame, firmly holding the screen in place. The excess material is then trimmed closely. Standard spline sizes range from 3.6 mm (0.140 in) to 4.8 mm (0.190 in) in thickness.

A spline roller, a specialized tool with a metal or plastic wheel on a handle, is employed to embed the spline into the frame. The concave edge of the wheel aids in holding the spline securely without slipping. Some spline rollers feature both convex and concave rollers; the convex roller can push the spline deeper into the groove without risking damage to the screen. Care must be taken not to over-tension the screen, as this can warp the frame.

Historical Overview

References to "woven wire for window screens" can be traced back to the American Farmer in 1854. An advertisement for wire window screens appeared in Boyd's Blue Book in the same year. The first wire window screens were showcased at Quincy Hall in Boston around that time.

Within the next decade, Gilbert, Bennett and Company began producing wire mesh sieves for food processing. An employee's insight led to the realization that these wire cloths could serve as effective window screens, resulting in immediate market success. A significant milestone occurred in 1867 when Bayley and McCluskey filed a U.S. Patent for screened rooftop railcar windows that provided ventilation while preventing sparks, dust, and debris from entering.

By 1884, the E.T. Barnum Company advertised screens available for sale by the square foot. It is noteworthy that, at that time, no patents specifically protecting window screens for insect prevention existed in the United States. However, this changed by 1890, when several patents were granted for various window screen designs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mesh screens have become an integral part of modern households, providing effective protection from various insects while allowing ventilation. The evolution of screen designs and materials has led to a diverse range of options, catering to individual needs and architectural preferences.

For more information about aluminum mesh screens, our knowledgeable sales team is ready to help you identify the best choices for your requirements.

For further details on metal wire mesh for filtration purposes, please reach out to us. We are committed to providing professional assistance.