CARE & MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS

Last Updated: July 12, 2026

Thank you for choosing Retract Screens. Our custom retractable insect screens are engineered using architectural-grade aluminum and high-tensile, UV-stabilized mesh to ensure long-lasting durability.

To keep your screens operating smoothly, looking pristine, and to validate your 5-year mechanical warranty, please follow these simple care and maintenance guidelines.

1. Daily Operation Best Practices

• Smooth & Steady: Always glide the screen handle smoothly across the track. Avoid slamming, forcing, or aggressively throwing the screen open or shut.

• Clear the Path: Before closing your screen, quickly glance at the bottom floor track to ensure no toys, shoes, pebbles, or pet leash straps are obstructing the path.

• Retract During High Winds: While our pleated screens absorb sudden wind gusts exceptionally well, we strongly recommend fully retracting your screens into their protective housing during severe storms, gales, or high-wind events. This prevents the mesh from over-stretching or blowing out of its tracks.

• Away When Away: If you are leaving your property for an extended holiday or during the winter season when insects are dormant, keep the screens rolled or folded away inside their protective aluminum cassettes.

2. Routine Cleaning Guide (Every 2–3 Months)

Dust, pet hair, salt spray, and airborne pollen can accumulate in the tracks and mesh over time, causing friction. A quick clean every few months will keep them performing like new.

Step 1: Cleaning the Bottom Track (Most Important!)

The bottom track is a natural magnet for debris.

• Vacuum: Use your vacuum cleaner’s soft brush attachment to thoroughly suck out dirt, dust, and trapped insects from the entire length of the top and bottom channels.

• Wipe: Wipe the inside of the track with a damp microfiber cloth to remove residual grime.

• Do NOT use heavy grease or WD-40: Standard lubricants attract dirt and turn into a sticky paste that locks up the internal bearings. (See lubrication guide below).

Step 2: Cleaning the Mesh

• Dusting: Extend the screen fully and gently vacuum the mesh from top to bottom using a soft upholstery brush attachment.

• Washing: For sticky residue or salt-air buildup, wipe the mesh gently using a soft sponge dipped in lukewarm, mild soapy water (a few drops of dishwashing liquid is perfect).

• Dry Before Retracting: Crucial Step! Always allow the mesh to air-dry completely in the open position before retracting it back into the cassette. Rolling up wet mesh can trap moisture and cause mold or mildew.

Step 3: Cleaning the Aluminum Frame

• Wipe down the powder-coated aluminum cassettes and tracks with a soft cloth and a mild detergent solution.

• Never use abrasive pads, steel wool, or harsh chemical solvents (such as acetone, thinners, or bleach), as these will strip or scratch the UV-stabilized powder-coated finish.

3. Annual Track Lubrication

If your screen starts to feel stiff or makes a slight squeaking noise after months of heavy summer use, it is time to lubricate the tracks:

1. Thoroughly vacuum and clean the tracks as outlined above.

2. Apply a light spray of a Dry Silicone-Based Lubricant directly into the channels of the top and bottom tracks.

3. Slide the screen back and forth a few times to distribute the lubricant evenly.

• Note: Dry silicone spray creates a slick barrier without leaving a wet residue, meaning it will not attract dust or sand.

4. Pets and Children

• Our fiberglass mesh is high-tensile and highly resilient, but it is not an animal training barrier.

• Avoid letting dogs, cats, or toddlers push, scratch, or lean heavily against the mesh, as this can dislodge the mesh from its retaining tracks or cause tearing over time.

Need Maintenance Troubleshooting?

If your screen is catching or you accidentally dislodged the mesh cords, don't panic! Check out our comprehensive Troubleshooting Guide or contact our dedicated service team at info@retractscreens.com for step-by-step assistance.