Best Fly Screen Door Options: Magnetic, Retractable & More

A fly screen door does one job: keep insects out while letting air in. But the type you choose affects how well it works, how long it lasts, and how much hassle it creates. Here's a straight comparison of every main type — so you can pick the right one without wasting money on the wrong fit.

Types of Fly Screen Doors

Magnetic Fly Screen Doors

Magnetic screens are the most popular entry-level option. They attach to the door frame with hook-and-loop tape and use a row of magnets along a center seam to close automatically after you walk through. No handles, no latches — just push through and the screen closes behind you.

Pros:

• Easy to install (under 15 minutes, no tools required)
• Portable — take it with you when you move
• Hands-free operation, great for carrying groceries or managing kids and pets
• Affordable ($15–40 for most options)

Cons:

• Less durable than framed screens
• Can gap at edges if sizing is off
• Not suitable as a security screen

Best for: Renters, temporary use, anyone who wants a quick and affordable solution.

Retractable Fly Screen Doors

Retractable screens sit in a housing unit mounted to the door frame and roll out when needed, retracting automatically when not in use. They're invisible when retracted and look clean year-round.

Pros:

• Minimal visual impact when not in use
• Durable mechanism when quality brands are chosen
• Works well for doors that need to look good (front entries, patio doors)

Cons:

• Significantly more expensive ($150–600+ installed)
• Requires professional installation in most cases
• Mechanism can fail over time, especially in dusty environments

Best for: Homeowners who prioritise aesthetics and are willing to invest.

Framed Screen Doors (Fixed)

The traditional approach: an aluminium or timber frame with mesh, hung on its own hinges alongside the main door. Spring-loaded for self-closing.

Pros:

• Very durable — lasts 10+ years with minimal maintenance
• Solid feel, good bug seal
• Can be painted or powder-coated to match the home

Cons:

• Permanent installation — not portable
• Requires measuring, ordering, and often professional fitting
• More expensive than magnetic options ($100–400+)

Best for: Homeowners wanting a permanent, long-term solution.

Sliding Screen Doors

Purpose-built for sliding glass door openings, these run in a track alongside the main sliding door. Typically come standard with new sliding door installations.

Pros:

• Clean, built-in look
• Smooth operation
• Good seal when properly fitted

Cons:

• Replacement can be expensive if original is damaged
• Not transferable to other openings

Best for: Sliding glass door openings as a replacement for worn originals.

Best Magnetic Fly Screen Doors

For most people, a magnetic fly screen is the practical starting point. Here are the top options:

CoverWith — Best Custom-Fit Magnetic Screen

CoverWith makes magnetic screens to your exact door measurements. For doors that aren't a standard size — which is more common than most people expect — a custom-fit screen eliminates the edge gaps that let insects through. Fiberglass mesh, industrial hook-and-loop tape, and close-spaced magnets along the seam.

The main advantage over Amazon options: it actually fits. Edge gaps are the single biggest failure point for magnetic screens, and a custom measurement process solves that entirely.

Magzo — Best Standard Off-the-Shelf Option

Magzo uses fiberglass mesh (more durable than polyester), 26 magnets, and a hasp latch for extra wind resistance. At $18–28 it's one of the better quality options at the price. Available in a range of standard widths.

Flux Phenom — Most Popular Budget Option

Flux Phenom's polyester mesh screen is widely available, easy to install, and inexpensive ($20–25). Adequate for standard openings and light use. The polyester mesh is less durable than fiberglass, so expect to replace it after a season or two of heavy use.

Homearda — Best Value Entry Option

Homearda offers fiberglass mesh at a budget price ($15–20). A reliable entry-level option for standard openings.

How to Choose the Right Fly Screen Door

Measure first. The most common mistake is ordering before measuring. Measure the opening (not the door) — width and height. Account for any frame irregularities.

Consider your door type. Standard entry doors, sliding doors, French doors, and garage doors all need different screen approaches. A screen rated for a standard door won't cover a wide sliding opening.

Think about usage. High-traffic doors (back doors people use constantly) benefit from more magnets and heavier mesh. Low-traffic entries can use lighter, cheaper options.

Match the permanence to your situation. Renters should stick to magnetic or tension-mounted screens. Homeowners with budget can consider retractable or framed.

FAQ

What is the best fly screen door for a rental property? A magnetic fly screen door is the best option for renters — it attaches with adhesive tape and removes cleanly without damaging the frame. CoverWith for non-standard sizes, Magzo or Flux Phenom for standard openings.

Do fly screen doors keep all insects out? Magnetic screens keep out flies, mosquitoes, and most flying insects when properly fitted. Edge gaps and loose seams are the main entry points. A well-fitted screen with close-spaced magnets is effective.

How long do magnetic fly screen doors last? Fiberglass mesh models typically last 2–4 years. Polyester mesh options are closer to 1–2 seasons with regular use. Retractable and framed screens last significantly longer.

Can you use a fly screen door on a screen door that already exists? No — magnetic screens replace the fly screen function, they don't layer over existing screens. If you have an existing screen door, you likely don't need an additional magnetic screen.

What's the difference between a fly screen door and a security screen door? Fly screens are designed only to keep insects out — they offer no security protection. Security screens use heavy-gauge metal mesh in reinforced frames specifically designed to resist forced entry. They're different products for different purposes.

Final Verdict

For most homes, a magnetic fly screen door is the right starting point — quick to install, affordable, and effective. Magzo offers the best balance of quality and price for standard openings. For non-standard door sizes or anyone who has already had an off-the-shelf screen fail to fit, CoverWith's custom-made option solves the problem permanently. If aesthetics are the priority and budget allows, a retractable screen is the premium long-term investment.