Window meshing is the installation of a fine mesh screen over your existing window. It lets air and wind through, while mosquitoes, flies and lizards stay out.
There are two common types of window mesh on the market. Magnetic screens hold the mesh to your window with magnets. Retractable screens roll into a housing at the side when you are not using them.
Why Window Meshing Is Useful at Home
Window meshing does one simple thing: it lets you leave the windows open without letting insects in. Air moves through, cooking smells clear out of the kitchen, and your air conditioner works less.
The protection is the point. A fine mesh stops mosquitoes while still letting air through, which matters here because NEA tracks dengue clusters week by week. If you have a cat, you can go a step further with dedicated cat mesh, built in a heavier grade that holds up to claws and leaning.
How Magnetic Window Screens Work
A magnetic strip is fixed around your window opening with high-bond adhesive tape, so most homes need no drilling at all. You get a 100% sealed opening with no gaps along the sides for lizards, cockroaches, spiders and other crawling insects. The mesh comes in two types. Fibreglass is the standard insect option, thin and best kept away from anything sharp. Heavy-duty polyester is thicker and stands up to scratches. Both offer a clear view and ventilation. Wind clips are included for extra hold on windy days, which helps if you are on a high floor.
How Window Screen Magnets Help With Daily Use
Protection That Is Always On
Window screen magnets hold the panel in place day and night. Unlike a screen you have to draw across, there is nothing to remember before you open the window or go to bed, and no gap left behind if you forget.
Easy to Use
With window screen magnets, you simply lift the corners of the screen to reach the window. The screen snaps back into place without the need for a lock.
Steady on Windy Days
Wind clips give the screen added security against strong wind, so it does not collapse or come off.
Easy to Maintain
There are no rollers, springs or sliding parts, so there is nothing to jam, oil or repair. Keeping the mesh clean is the only upkeep.
What Is a Retractable Screen Window?
A retractable screen window keeps the mesh on a roller at the side of the window. Pull the mesh across when you need it, and roll it back when it is not in use, leaving a clear, unobstructed view.
It is especially useful for wide folding windows, where an unblocked view is the priority. Other window types that can use a retractable screen include casement and sliding windows, windows with grilles, single-panel windows and open areas.
Retractable systems use polyester mesh for insects and heavy-duty polyester mesh for cats. Locking mechanisms differ between products. Some use a latch, and others use an Allen key lock.
Magnetic vs Retractable Window Screens
| Feature | Magnetic Screens | Retractable Screens |
| Coverage | 100% sealed, with no gaps along the edges | Gaps at the roller when fully deployed; not recommended for crawling insects |
| Installation | No drilling; frame secured with adhesive tape | Drilling and non-drilling options are available |
| Mesh options | Fibreglass (for insect) or heavy-duty polyester (for pet) mesh | Polyester (for insect) or heavy duty Polyester (for pet) mesh |
| Opening and removal | Lifts off in seconds for washing | Retracts completely so the mesh can be kept away |
| Locking mechanism | No locking mechanism | Locking system available |
| Weight support | Unable to take weight | Up to 100kg (depending on model type) |
| Production and lead time | Made in Mozziefy’s own workshop; 2-3 weeks | 4-6 weeks |
| Warranty | 3 years, excluding mesh | 1-3 years, excluding mesh |
| Additional options | Wind clips included | 2-in-1 Blinds + Mesh available |
Which Option Is Easier to Clean and Maintain?
Magnetic wins on ease. Wipe the mesh with a soft cloth while it is on the window, or vacuum it regularly with a soft brush to clear trapped dust and dirt. For deeper cleaning, simply take the whole screen down.
A retractable screen window can be cleaned the same way while the mesh is rolled out and attached to the window. For deeper cleaning, the mesh has to be retracted into the roller before the whole roller system is detached.
Which Window Screen Type Should You Choose?
Start with what matters most to you. There are three things to consider: your priority, your budget and how soon you need the screens.
1. Work Out Your Priority
- Total insect protection: go magnetic. The seal runs the full perimeter, with no gap for crawling insects to slip through.
- No added bulk on the window: go magnetic. There is no roller housing or track, so nothing bulky sits around your window frame.
- A view you do not want broken up: go retractable. If you have wide folding windows with an unobstructed panoramic view, a retractable screen protects the opening while staying convenient to use.
- Some security, or stopping the kids from pulling the mesh open: go retractable. It comes with locks that keep the mesh fixed, so children cannot open and close it on a whim.
Then think about how you actually use each window. Kitchen, bathroom and bedroom windows that need low maintenance and basic insect protection suit a magnetic screen. A wide folding window, or a window you use for the outdoor laundry area, is better served by a retractable screen.
2. Budget
Magnetic screens tend to be cheaper, as their mechanism is simpler than that of a retractable screen. Special requirements, such as additional work, the removal of existing grilles or odd-sized panels, also add to the cost. GST, the minimum order value and the deposit are also worth noting when you plan your budget.
3. Lead Time
If you need it done quickly, magnetic wins. The screens are fabricated locally by Mozziefy’s in-house team, so they are ready sooner.
Send photos and rough measurements of your windows over WhatsApp on +65 6034 9462 for an estimated quotation, or get Mozziefy’s advice on the best window screen type for your home.
