Retractable Screens - Manual or Motorized

Retractable screens are an excellent way to make the most of your outdoor space. Whether you want to create a screen porch, deck, or patio for year-round use, it is important that you choose retractable screens that will best suit your needs.

There are many different models on the market today and they come in either manual or motorized options. But how do you choose between manual or motorized retractable screens? Both have their pros and cons, so it is important that you weigh them carefully before making a decision. Let’s take a look at both options in more detail below!

Manual Retractable Screens

With manual retractable screens, all of the work falls on your shoulders when it comes time for screen installation. This includes lifting the heavy panels into place, attaching them securely with screws or brackets, and then unhooking them after use. Manual retraction also requires you to manually collapse the screens back down after use, which can be a hassle if you don’t often retract your screen or forget about it. However, manual retraction is relatively inexpensive and easy to install yourself.

Manual Screens Pros:  

• Cheapest option available  

• Easy to install yourself

Manual Screens Cons:

• All work falls on your shoulders. You must lift and lower the panel every time you want it up or down, which is difficult if you don’t often retract them. (Not ideal for people who like low maintenance)

• Requires you to collapse the screen yourself after use

Motorized Retractable Screens

Motorized retractable screens are a great way to make life easier. Installing them is just as easy as installing manual screens, but they offer an automated retraction and collapsing system so that you don’t have to do any of the hard work!

These screens are ideal for people who want the benefits of a retractable screen without having to lift or lower anything manually. Motorized can be controlled with just one simple remote that is easy to use and store when not in use, so you won’t have to worry about misplacing it!

Motorized Screens Pros:    

• Ideal for low maintenance

• Better functionality

• Can be operated with a remote

Motorized Screens Cons:

• A little more expensive than manual

• It is difficult to install on your own and you need electrician’s assistance for the installation process. It is also possible that they will require professional servicing at some point in their life span.


Manual Or Motorized Retractable Screens: Which Option Is Right For You?

There is no right or wrong option. Your choice of retractable screen will be based on your preferences of style, design and other similar factors. Your budget for the screens will also determine your choice.

Manual retractable screens may not be as fancy as the motorized options, but they get the job done. They are ideal for people who don’t mind lifting panels and spending a lot of time retracting and collapsing the screens after use.

Motorized options can be controlled with just one simple remote and look extremely sleek. Motorized screens are a great way to make life easier by doing all of the work for you, but they do come at a higher price point than their manual counterparts. They require less maintenance as well since they retract automatically after use, so no heavy lifting is required!

No matter the types of retractable screens you are looking for, for a smooth experience, it is important to hire a professional to install retractable screens at your house. Arca Pro Retractable is one of the best in the market. Not only do we offer a range of different retractable screens but we also have skilled personnel that would make sure that the screens are installed efficiently. Contact us to get a free quote.

Get a Free Quote
Contact Us
Product of Interest
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form. Please check your entry and try again.

Ratings & Reviews

We love our retractable screens and are delighted with the ArcaPro quality.   The job was far from standard requiring custom arch work and they did a great job.    We were also very pleased with the overall sturdiness of the product as opposed to other vendors.   I would highly recommend them.

Anthony D.

We are so very happy that we went with ARCAPRO for our motorized screens and awning. The difference in the temperature on our lanai and even in the family room has cooled down tremendously compared to the sun beating in like it did before. We can now use our lanai and deck throughout the Summer instead of just 8 months out of the year. And the neighbors and family are thrilled with the new look and feel of this area. The strength and durability of these products shows in their looks, action and even the feel. We highly recommend ARCAPRO.

John A.

We are extremely happy with our ArcaPro screens.  The entire process went smoothly, and was exactly what we were hoping for. Joe was always available to answer questions before and after installation.  We could not be happier with how clear the screens are, while allowing air flow into our lanai.  I would definitely recommend them!

Nina R.