0.5mm vs. 0.8mm Mesh Screen Doors: Which Is Better for Tiny Bugs?
Love leaving your door open for fresh air, but tired of tiny flying insects getting inside? When choosing a magnetic screen door for gnats and no-see-ums, the actual mesh opening size matters.
Fillis offers two mesh options for applicable custom magnetic screen doors: 0.5mm polyester and 0.8mm fiberglass. If finer screening is your priority, our 0.5mm polyester mesh is the smaller-opening option. However, no mesh size guarantees protection against every species of tiny insect.
Why Does Mesh Opening Size Matter?
Gnats are several kinds of small flying insects, while no-see-ums are tiny biting midges. Their body dimensions vary. A smaller opening can make it harder for more insects to pass through, but protection also depends on screen fit, seams, insect size and the condition of the mesh.
0.5mm vs. 0.8mm Mesh: What's the Difference?
| Feature | 0.5mm Polyester | 0.8mm Fiberglass |
|---|---|---|
| Nominal opening size | 0.5mm | 0.8mm |
| Opening comparison | Smaller | Larger |
| Best suited to | Customers prioritizing finer insect screening | Customers who do not require the finest available option |
| Custom orders | Available | Available |
Our recommendation: Choose 0.5mm polyester mesh when tiny flying insects are the main concern. It has smaller nominal openings than the 0.8mm fiberglass option, though neither can guarantee complete exclusion of every insect species.
A Close-Up Look at Fillis 0.5mm Polyester Mesh
Our finest currently available mesh option for custom magnetic screen doors features a regular grid of fine openings. The smaller openings offer a more restrictive physical barrier while still permitting airflow.
Can 0.5mm Mesh Stop No-See-Ums and Gnats?
It may help reduce entry, but the answer depends on the insect species. Some biting midges are extremely small. For that reason, we do not claim that a 0.5mm opening stops every no-see-um.
Even excellent mesh cannot compensate for gaps around a doorway. Ensure the screen fits the frame, the magnetic opening closes fully, and the mesh is free of tears. Nearby windows or vents can also be entry points.
Read our guide to no-see-ums and screen door mesh size for more context.
What Do 20×20, 30×30 and 40×40 Mesh Mean?
Mesh counts describe the number of mesh intervals per linear inch in each direction. They do not directly give the size of the open spaces. The thickness of the threads also affects the actual opening.
For an accurate comparison, ask for the opening size in millimeters, not only the mesh count. Fillis currently specifies its available choices by nominal opening size: 0.5mm polyester and 0.8mm fiberglass. We do not currently offer a confirmed opening smaller than 0.5mm.
Does Finer Mesh Affect Airflow?
Finer mesh still allows air to circulate, although smaller openings can increase resistance to airflow. Actual ventilation also depends on thread thickness, the open area of the fabric and environmental conditions. We have not published a measured airflow comparison between our two fabrics, so we recommend balancing your preference for finer screening with your ventilation needs.
Can You Order 0.5mm Mesh for a Large Four-Panel Sliding Glass Door?
Yes. Fillis offers made-to-order magnetic screen doors using 0.5mm polyester mesh, including options for oversized patio and four-panel sliding glass doors. Please provide the width and height of the opening to confirm the suitable configuration and price.
| Fine mesh material | Polyester, nominal 0.5mm openings |
|---|---|
| Custom width | Based on measurements, subject to confirmation |
| Maximum custom height | 96 inches (approximately 244cm) |
| Pricing | Based on the custom dimensions |
| Production | Approximately 1 week |
| Shipping | Approximately 2 weeks |
| Total estimated time | Around 3 weeks, subject to variation |
Explore Fillis Custom Magnetic Screen Doors →
How to Measure Your Door for a Custom Screen
- Measure the full width of the opening you want screened.
- Measure the height of the opening.
- Check the frame for sufficient attachment space and any obstacles such as handles or tracks.
- For four-panel doors, explain which section you want to walk through and your preferred magnetic opening position.
- Double-check your measurements before ordering.
If you are unsure about sizing, contact Fillis with the dimensions and a photo of the doorway before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 0.5mm mesh better than 0.8mm mesh for tiny insects?
It has smaller openings and is our recommendation when finer screening is the main priority. Actual protection still varies by insect species and screen installation.
Can 0.5mm mesh stop every no-see-um?
No guarantee can be made. Some species are small enough that 0.5mm openings may not block them completely.
Does Fillis offer 30×30 or 40×40 mesh?
Our confirmed available specifications are nominal 0.5mm polyester and 0.8mm fiberglass openings. We do not advertise an independently verified 30×30 or 40×40 count for these options.
Can I order 0.5mm mesh for a standard entry door?
Yes, you can request a custom magnetic screen door made with 0.5mm polyester mesh. Check the specific product listing before assuming a ready-made model uses the same material.
What is the height limit for a custom fine mesh screen?
The supported maximum height is 96 inches (approximately 244cm). Custom width and configuration require confirmation.
How long does custom production and shipping take?
Allow about one week for production and about two weeks for shipping, or approximately three weeks overall.
Find the Right Fine Mesh Magnetic Screen Door
For a standard doorway or an oversized sliding glass door, focus on the actual mesh opening, the quality of the fit and the configuration that suits your daily use. If smaller flying insects are your main concern, Fillis 0.5mm polyester mesh is our finest current option.
Shop Custom Magnetic Screen Doors →
Fresh Air In. Bugs Out.