Keeping your home fresh, comfortable, and bug-free is easy when you have ROLLerUp retractable screens installed. They’re sleek, they’re durable, and the best part? They’re designed to be low-maintenance. That said, a little care here and there makes a world of difference when it comes to longevity and smooth operation. Think of it like changing the oil in your car; minimal effort for maximum performance.
So, why bother with retractable screen maintenance at all? Simple: a clean, well-cared-for screen glides quietly, lasts longer, and keeps doing its job season after season. And compared to traditional screen doors, the upkeep is a breeze.
Before we dive into the details, here are some quick takeaways you’ll want to keep in mind:
Key Takeaways
- A five-minute monthly routine is enough to keep your screens in top shape.
- Wipe dust, sand and debris with a wet cloth if you find it on screens or rails.
- Watch for signs like squeaks or sticky tracks; they’re easy to fix at home.
- Seasonal care ensures your screen handles Canadian weather like a champ.
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty.
Why ROLLerUp Retractable Screens Need Less Upkeep
Not all screens are created equal. The beauty of ROLLerUp’s design is that much of the system’s wear and tear is prevented right from the start. The hidden protective housing keeps dirt and dust from settling where it doesn’t belong. Unlike traditional screen doors that often need constant cleaning, our smooth-gliding track systems are engineered to resist buildup and require only light attention.
The materials matter too. Our frames are built from durable aluminum, and the mesh is premium-grade, meaning fewer replacements over the long haul. When comparing retractable vs. traditional screen doors, it’s easy to see why ROLLerUp owners spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying a breeze.
The 5-Minute Monthly Maintenance Routine
If you can spare the time to make a cup of coffee, you can spare the time to keep your retractable screens humming along. Here’s a simple step-by-step you can follow once a season, so about every three months.
Step 1: Clean the Tracks
Dust and grit are the usual suspects when it comes to sticky movement. Grab your vacuum and give the top and bottom tracks a quick run. This small act can prevent sticky sliding screen door issues before they even start.
Step 2: Wipe the Mesh & Frame
Use mild soap, water, and a soft microfibre cloth to gently clean the mesh and frame. This keeps the screen looking fresh while preventing dirt from embedding in the fabric.
Step 3: Inspect Housing & Moving Parts
Take a quick peek at the housing and seals. Spot a misalignment or some wear? Catching it early saves bigger headaches later.
Step 4: Test Smooth Operation
Fully retract and extend the screen. If it glides smoothly, you’re in good shape. If not, don’t panic; we’ll cover common fixes shortly.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best care, small hiccups can pop up. Luckily, most are easy to handle without needing to call in the cavalry.
Squeaky Screens
If your screen is singing every time it moves, the culprit is likely dust buildup. Clean the tracks, then apply a light coat of dry silicone spray. That usually does the trick to fix squeaky retractable screen door problems.
Sticky or Jammed Operation
When the screen feels stubborn, first check for obstructions like dirt or leaves. Worn brush seals or a slightly bent track can also be the issue.
Mesh Misalignment
Sometimes the mesh may shift off its guide. Many cases can be reset manually, but if it persists, it’s best to let a pro at ROLLerUp take a look.
Seasonal Maintenance Checklist (For Canadian Weather)
Our climate keeps us on our toes, and your retractable screens appreciate seasonal care tailored to the Canadian forecast.
- Spring: Give everything a deep clean. Focus on tracks and seals to prep for heavy use.
- Summer: Retract the screen during extreme storms, and wipe the mesh regularly.
- Fall: One last thorough wash and cleaning off leaves before winter. Make sure the screen is completely dry before retracting.
- Winter: You can leave them in the down position and use them, as long as you don’t operate them when they’re frozen to the ground.
Following this checklist ensures reliable seasonal retractable screen maintenance year after year.
Caring for Motorized Retractable Screens
Motorized systems are convenient, but, just like manual screens, they do have a couple of special needs:
- Keep remotes and batteries functional.
- Avoid operating in high winds (25+ km/h or more).
- Always let the wet mesh dry before retracting.
- Schedule an annual service check to extend lifespan and performance.
A little attention goes a long way with motorized retractable screen care.
ROLLerUp Retractable Screens vs. Traditional Screens
A side-by-side comparison says it all:
| Feature | ROLLerUP Screens | Traditional Screen Doors |
| Cleaning Frequency | Quick wipe once a season | Weekly scrubbing |
| Lubrication | Slight wiping | Frequent oiling |
| Noise & Squeaks | Minimal | Common |
| Lifespan | Up to 10x longer | Shorter |
Curious which screen option best fits your home? Read our guide on Retractable Screen Doors vs. Retractable Patio Screens: Which is Best for Your Home?
Do’s and Don’ts of Retractable Screen Maintenance
Let’s keep it simple.
Do:
- Use mild soap and water.
- Vacuum tracks regularly, if dirty.
Don’t:
- Use oil-based lubricants.
- Force the screen if it’s stuck.
- Don’t operate during high winds.
- Retract the screen while the mesh is wet.
- Don’t retract during winter if the screens are frozen.
Follow these, and you’ll rarely run into issues.
When to Call ROLLerUp for Professional Help
Sometimes it’s better to leave it to the experts. Reach out to ROLLerUp if you encounter:
- Torn mesh or damaged tracks.
- Persistent squeaks or alignment problems.
- Motorized system glitches.
If you’re considering an upgrade, you can also check out our guide on Choosing the Right Retractable Screens for Your Home.
Keeping Your Retractable Screens Running Smoothly
A little care goes a long way. With a quick monthly routine, seasonal check-ins, and the occasional touch of silicone spray, your ROLLerUp retractable screens will glide like new for years. Compared to the endless upkeep of traditional screen doors, it really is night and day.
Think of your retractable screen as a trusted gatekeeper; it deserves a little attention to keep doing its job quietly and effectively. And if anything ever goes beyond DIY fixes, ROLLerUp’s team is just a call away.
Need expert maintenance or installation? Contact ROLLerUp today for a free consultation and keep your retractable screens performing like new.
ROLLerUP is the premier company for security shutters, retractable screens and shading solutions in Toronto, Ottawa, Kawarthas, Niagara Falls, Muskoka and surrounding areas. We pride ourselves on providing high-quality, customized products that have served our clients’ needs for years. With over 10 years of experience in the security shutter industry, we have acquired the know-how to provide unsurpassed security shutter installation services in Ontario.Â
To learn more about residential and commercial roller shutters, call 855-576-5587 or fill out our convenient online form.
