Upgrading your outdoor living space can feel overwhelming with so many options available. At New Horizons, two of our most popular solutions are motorized retractable screens and motorized retractable shades. Both offer style, comfort, and convenience with one click of your remote — but they serve different purposes.
Let’s break down the differences so you can decide which solution is best for your Central Florida home.
The Main Differences Between Screens and Shades
The biggest difference comes down to how much sun they block — and what you’re willing to trade off.
Motorized Retractable Screens
Screens use a finer mesh that blocks insects while maintaining your view and allowing maximum airflow. They provide some UV protection, but their primary purpose is bug control and ventilation. If you want to keep mosquitoes, love bugs, and no-see-ums out while still enjoying the breeze and scenery, screens are the right choice.
Motorized Retractable Shades
Shades use a denser, tighter-weave material that blocks significantly more sun, heat, and glare. They also offer more privacy since they reduce visibility from the outside. However, because of the tighter weave, shades don’t allow air to pass through as freely as screens.
Benefits of Motorized Retractable Screens
Motorized retractable screens are our most popular product — and for good reason. They’re versatile, easy to use, and integrate seamlessly into virtually any outdoor space.
Key benefits:
- Insect control — Block mosquitoes, love bugs, no-see-ums, and other pests
- Unobstructed views — Fine mesh maintains visibility of your yard, pool, or landscaping
- Maximum airflow — Enjoy the breeze without letting bugs in
Best for: Homeowners who want to use their lanai or patio without being bothered by insects, while still enjoying natural airflow and views.
Benefits of Motorized Retractable Shades
Motorized retractable shades are designed for maximum sun protection and privacy. The denser mesh blocks heat, glare, and UV rays — making your outdoor space more comfortable during the hottest parts of the day.
Key benefits:
- Sun blocking — Significantly reduces heat and glare from direct sun
- Enhanced privacy — Limits visibility from neighbors or the street
- Temperature control — Keeps covered spaces cooler and reduces energy costs
Best for: Homeowners dealing with intense afternoon sun, west-facing patios, or those who want more privacy without feeling closed in.
Installation and Customization Options
Both screens and shades share similar installation options. During your consultation, we’ll help you determine which method works best for your home:
- Recessed — Built into the frame during construction or remodel (completely hidden when retracted)
- Outside above the opening — Mounted on the exterior face above the opening
- Under the header — Mounted under the header like a window treatment
- Inside above the opening — Mounted inside the opening for weather protection
Mesh Options
One of the biggest customization choices is the type of mesh:
For screens:
- Insect mesh — Fine weave that blocks bugs while maintaining visibility and airflow
For shades:
- Solar mesh — Available in 80%, 90%, 95%, or 99% sun blockage levels
- Privacy mesh (Dim-out) — 100% privacy for complete seclusion
Solar mesh also comes in multiple colors to match your home’s exterior. You can view all mesh options in our virtual flipbook on the Retractable Screens page.
Not Sure Which One You Need?
The best way to decide is to see both products in action. Visit our one-of-a-kind showroom in Winter Park, FL where you can compare motorized retractable screens and shades side by side, test the controls, and ask our team any questions.
Or, if you already know what you’re looking for, contact us for a free quote. We’ll help you find the perfect solution for your outdoor space.
Related Articles
- How Much Does a Motorized Retractable Screen Cost?
- The Benefits of Motorized Retractable Shades for Central Florida Homes
- Transform Your Space: Innovative Retractable Screens for Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living
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