If you are investing in a large folding, sliding, or swinging patio door system, you might be wondering how you can screen such a large opening. The best solution for screening a large opening and protecting your home from bothersome insects and other unwanted debris is a retractable accordion screen system. These accordion screens are unlike any other and will be a valuable addition to your door system. Read below to have all your retractable accordion screen questions answered.

How Do Retractable Accordion Screens Work?

Many people wonder how these innovative screen systems work—retractable accordion screens are easy to operate and slide open and closed seamlessly. When in use, the screen expands and covers the entire opening. Made with fine mesh, the screen protects your home without impeding the expansive view to the outside. When not in use, the screen retracts into a narrow segment at the edge of your door system and is almost unnoticeable.

Are Retractable Accordion Screens Visible When Not in Use?

Retractable accordion screens are slightly visible when retracted, however they condense into a narrow segment that is only a few inches wide. If you would rather your screen system be completely out of sight, you can choose to have it pocketed inside the door jamb. When screens are pocketed, everything is perfectly tucked away out of view, but the screen’s pull handle is easily accessed at the pocket’s edge.

How Are Retractable Accoridon Screens Installed?

AG Millworks is the only manufacturer that installs your retractable accordion screen in the factory. Screens are fully integrated into your door jamb by expert installers, eliminating the possibility of erroneous installation and guaranteeing a perfectly functioning screen system. Screen installation is complicated and requires precision, so contractors and door installers prefer the AG Millworks built-in screen option to ensure speed and accuracy when installing your door system.

How Big Can Retractable Accordion Screens Be?

Retractable accordion screens are available for openings as wide as 32’ and as tall as 10’6”. This width is possible by using two 16’ screens that connect at the center. If you prefer the appearance of two screens meeting at the center, you can choose to use this configuration for smaller openings as well.

Can Retractable Accordion Screens Be Paired with Any Door System?

Retractable accordion screens can be paired with any door system, as long as it doesn’t exceed the maximum dimensions of 32’ wide and 10’6” tall. Accordion screens are compatible with single French swing doors, double French swing doors, bi-fold doors, multi-slide doors, and lift and slide doors.

Are Retractable Accordion Screens Easy to Maintain?

Accordion screens are low maintenance. The screen track should be kept free of debris and the mesh should be dusted to remove dirt and dust build-up. You can easily clean the track with a low-suction vacuum with a soft brush attachment. Please see our Door Care Guide for full screen maintenance information.

Learn more about our door systems and retractable accordion screen options and talk to a door expert about your upcoming project.