Sunspace Screening Guide
BetterVue vs. No-See-Um Screening: Which Is Right for Your Sunroom?
More airflow or fewer bugs? Here’s what to consider when choosing the right screen for your outdoor living space.
When designing a new sunroom or enclosing an existing porch, there’s a lot to think about, from window styles and frame colors to how you’ll use the space throughout the year.
One detail that’s easy to overlook? Your screening material.
At Patio Systems, Inc., we offer several screening options for our Sunspace porch enclosures and sunroom systems. Two of our most popular choices are BetterVue® and No-See-Um screening.
Both allow you to enjoy fresh air while helping keep insects outside, but they’re designed with slightly different priorities in mind.
BetterVue®: Better Views, More Airflow
If your top priorities are enjoying the breeze, maximizing natural light, and maintaining a clear view of your backyard, BetterVue is an excellent option.
BetterVue uses thinner screen strands and a more open weave than traditional fiberglass screening, allowing more light and air to pass through while maintaining protection against common insects like mosquitoes and flies.
Why homeowners love BetterVue:
- Excellent outward visibility
- Greater airflow and natural light
- Less noticeable screening material
- Everyday protection against common flying insects
Best for: Homeowners who want their porch to feel as open and airy as possible, especially when enjoying scenic views or natural breezes.
No-See-Um Screening: Extra Protection Against Tiny Insects
Anyone who has spent time outdoors in coastal Delaware knows that mosquitoes aren’t the only insects that can ruin a beautiful evening!
No-See-Um screening features a tighter 20/20 mesh specifically designed to help keep out smaller insects, including biting midges, gnats, and other tiny pests that may pass through more traditional screening materials.
The trade-off? Because the openings are smaller, No-See-Um screening generally allows less airflow than BetterVue.
That doesn’t mean your porch won’t receive fresh air. It simply means the breeze may feel somewhat softer compared to a more open screen.
Why homeowners love No-See-Um screening:
- Additional protection against tiny biting insects
- Especially useful in coastal and wooded environments
- Allows natural ventilation while helping keep smaller pests outside
- A practical choice for homeowners who frequently encounter gnats or midges
Best for: Homeowners who prioritize protection from small insects, particularly those living near marshes, wooded areas, or other environments where biting midges are common.
BetterVue vs. No-See-Um: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | BetterVue® | No-See-Um (20/20) |
|---|---|---|
| Airflow | Greater airflow | Somewhat more restricted |
| Visibility | Excellent clarity | Good visibility |
| Natural light | More light passes through | Slightly reduced |
| Common insect protection | Yes | Yes |
| Tiny insect protection | Less effective | Designed for smaller insects |
| Best for | Breezes and views | Extra insect protection |
Actual airflow and visibility depend on the specific screening material, weather conditions, and enclosure design.
So, Which Screen Should You Choose?
It really comes down to how you plan to enjoy your space.
Choose BetterVue if…
you love feeling the breeze, want the clearest possible views, and aren’t regularly bothered by tiny biting insects.
Choose No-See-Um if…
gnats, midges, or other small insects are a frequent nuisance and you’re comfortable trading a little airflow for additional protection.
Neither option is necessarily better than the other. The right choice depends on your property, its surroundings, and what matters most to you.
What About Other Screening Options?
BetterVue and No-See-Um are two of our most requested choices, but Patio Systems also offers additional options, including standard fiberglass, TuffScreen®, Solar Insect Screen, and Pool & Patio screening.
Depending on your needs, these materials can offer alternatives for durability, pets, sun exposure, or larger screened openings.
Your Design Consultant can help you explore which options are best suited to your project.
Let’s Find the Right Fit for Your Space
Visit our showroom on Route 1 in Lewes to explore available samples, or schedule a complimentary on-site consultation for a personalized design and detailed quote.
At Patio Systems, Inc., we’ve been helping Delaware homeowners create beautiful, functional outdoor living spaces for over 25 years.
Whether you’re enclosing an existing porch or planning a brand-new sunroom, our team can help you select the right combination of windows, screening, and design features for your home.