Insect screens for doors and windows must be constructed of not less than how many mesh per inch?

Insect screens for doors and windows are designed to provide ventilation while keeping insects out, and the mesh size is crucial in determining their effectiveness. A standard of 16 meshes per inch is typically recommended because this size is small enough to prevent most common insects from passing through while still allowing sufficient airflow.

At 16 meshes per inch, the openings in the screen are adequately sized to keep out mosquitoes, flies, and other small pests, while also being large enough to allow for effective screening without significantly obstructing light or airflow. This balance of function and performance is essential in maintaining a comfortable environment indoors.

Choosing a mesh with fewer than 16 openings per inch might not effectively block smaller insects, while a mesh with more than 16 might not provide enough airflow and could become overly dense, hindering visibility and light entry. Therefore, 16 meshes per inch is commonly accepted as the standard for effective insect prevention in residential settings.