Drop Shades vs. Retractable Patio Screens: Which is Right for You?

What Are Drop Shades?

Drop shades are screens that are either made with mesh or canvas that drop down to create a shaded environment and cool down the space. It can also keep debris from coming into a space if wind is a factor. 

There are a variety of ways that drop shades work. They either are manual with a crank or string or they are motorized to go up and down. Drop shades pair perfectly with covered patios and pergolas to create an outdoor oasis. 

Pros and Cons of Drop Shades 

The pros and cons of drop shades are the following. Drop shades have many pros but like anything there are some cons. So make sure you understand what a drop shade can do for you and your home before making a decision.

Pros

• Affordable: Drop shades are an affordable option compared to a motorized retractable screen or fixed screen.This is due to the application being easier, and does not need to be professionally installed in most cases.
• Easy to install: They are easy to install and usually can be installed by the owner which can be a plus for many. Because they are manual, the installation is fairly straightforward compared to a retractable patio screen. You can find drop shades at some of your local stores as a DIY.
•  Offers sun protection: Drop shades are designed to create shade and sun protection from extreme sun and heat.They do not have tracks on either side so it does not limit insects but is excellent for keeping the sun out. 

Cons

• Limited weather protection: Although drop shades are created for weather, in extreme winds, rain etc drop shades may not be the best fit. Because they are not secured on the sides they unfortunately can blow around with extreme weather conditions and can let rain and debris in. 
• May flap in the wind: Due to them not being secured on the sides they can flap around in the wind which can be an issue in areas where the climate is windy or extreme. If that is the case, choose a retractable patio screen instead.
• Not ideal for insect control: As they are not retained or secured on the sides they can let unwanted insects into your space. They are best used for sun protection in most cases. If you are looking for both sun and insect protection opt for a retractable patio screen.

What are Retractable Patio Screens?

Retractable patio screens are most commonly known as motorized screens. They are mounted to the top of a pergola or outdoor structure with tracks along the side which help with gliding up and down and keep it secure to avoid insects and debris. The screen itself can be made of different types of fabrics for your needs. Vinyl can be used to see clearly outside and in many cases restaurants and patios enjoy this option. 

Where as if you are in a backyard you may want the sun protection of a more opaque screen but that you can also see through. Retractable patio screens come with a remote which offers ease of use for the owners and visitors. You can also customize it so if you have multiple screens they can work together on one remote. 

With these types of screens they are ideal on porches, patios, outdoor living spaces to create an enclosed outdoor area. Sun protection where there is a pool or outdoor eating area or any patio area that the screen can be mounted onto.

Pros and Cons of Retractable Patio Screens 

Retractable patio screens have many pros but in some cases can have some cons depending on the person and their needs. Learn below some of them that may help make your decision easier. 

Pros

• Discreet when not in use: Retractable patio screens can disappear at a click of a button. This is a huge plus to many as they can be out of sight when not needed but rolled down when in use.
• Offers better insect/wind protection: Due to them being secured in the track, they are best for wind, rain and debris. They help to keep your area cozy when it’s cooler and block the wind when needed.
• Custom fit for outdoor living spaces: Your professional installer can look at your space and determine what it needs and how the screens should be mounted. The professional installer will come in and measure your space and look at the colours and the structure type. 

Cons

• Higher cost: Retractable Patio Screens are a higher end item due to their motorization, so therefore the cost will be higher. Prices will vary depending on the manufacturer and where you are located. The higher cost can also be dependent on the size of the screen, type of mesh and any specialty colors. When you inquire with a local installer they will be able to quote you on your specific project.
• Requires motorization/technical setup: It takes longer to get set up due to the motorization, but with a professional installer it should be a fairly quick process with no issues. The installation of the product does take longer as it is larger but the motorization does not affect the time it takes to install.
• Maintenance may be needed: Some maintenance may be needed as dirt and debris cause the screens to get worn down with time and not function. Make sure that the tracks are clean and the screen is not dirty. It may need to be wiped down with a wet towel every now and again. If dirt gets stuck in the tracks or rolled into the rolling mechanism, it will not work or it will deteriorate over time. 

Side-by-Side Comparison: Drop Shades vs. Retractable Patio Screens 

When you make a side by side comparison on drop shades vs. retractable patio screens you can tell the difference from the appearance of the screen. The tracks show on either side of the patio screen vs the drop screen which hang from the top and are manual in most cases. They are visibly used for shading versus keeping insects out etc.

Operation

The difference in the operation of both the drop shades and the retractable patio screens are that drop shades are usually used with a crank that drops the shades whereas the retractable patio screen uses a motor and remote to go up and down. 

Aesthetic appeal

The aesthetics of retractable screens are very similar, however the retractable patio screen is secured by tracks on either side which make it look more seamless and blend in nicer to your home’s aesthetic.

Weather protection

Weather protection from both screens are for different purposes. Drop shades are designed to block the sun from where you are sitting and also reduce heat. Whereas the retractable patio screen is created to either block sun, keep insects and debris out and also block any wind, rain, or snow. 

Customization

When it comes to customization, retractable patio screens are more customizable due to the professional installation. The drop shades are also customized by the colors, mesh, and additional features. 

Price range

The pricing on retractable patio screens vary depending on the sizing, customization, and the area you are located in. In order to know the pricing you will have to contact a local Mirage installer to give you the most accurate quote. Drop screens are more affordable as they are not motorized but pricing varies depending on the mesh and sizing. You can find a variety of pricing depending on the manufacturer.

Ease of use

Retractable patio screens are very easy to use as they are motorized. At a click of a button you can drop the screens or put them away. Many people enjoy the easy access without having to crank the screen up and down. Drop screens however are easy to use but take more time as in many cases they have a string, crank or something that can 

Maintenance 

Maintenance for both drop shades and retractable screens are very similar. You want to make sure you clean your mesh every once and a while to make sure there is no dirt that gets stuck in the rolling mechanisms. Drop screens however don’t have the motorization so it has less issues if dirt gets caught in the rolling mechanism. It’s important to have both screen types up when not in use as with weather it can cause damage to the screen with time. It is more secured and rolled up into the housing in case of wind or harsh conditions.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both drop shades and retractable patio screens are great fits for your home but it all depends on your layout, opening and your needs. Make sure to fully understand what both products do and how they fit your home. Speak with the installer of the product so they can explain which may be the best for the solution you are looking for and the customizations you can have.

Either screen can work well; it just depends on the use and your space.

Final Thoughts

Drop shades and retractable patio screens are both great products that have their benefits for different uses. Take into account what you need for your home and what your needs are. Both products are well made but a retractable patio screen is an elevated screen that gives your space a more elevated feel and is easier to use with motorization. If you choose a Mirage retractable patio screen you will be sure to have a high quality product that you can count on that blocks sun, insects, creates a warm environment for entertaining and creates privacy. Contact Mirage today to speak to a local screen specialist in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)