In Germany alone, millions of people suffer from a pollen allergy, associated with mild to severe symptoms, which usually occur seasonally – in some cases even all year round. While you are completely at the mercy of the tiny particles outdoors, it is certainly possible to block out a large part of the pollen at home: for example with a protective grille for windows. Read below to find out exactly how pollen protection screens work and what advantages and disadvantages the models have.
In principle, both variants can be used to make it more difficult for insects to gain access to your own four walls. But what exactly is the difference? In fact, pollen screens have much finer meshes than fly screens, which are supposed to ensure that 80 percent less pollen enters the home. And thus the symptoms of allergy sufferers are significantly reduced – although not 100 percent. Depending on the provider, different materials are used for production: such as polyester, fleece, aluminum and fiberglass fabric.
Pollen screens are designed to improve indoor air quality, but they also have their disadvantages. In the following table you will find the most important key points.
Tip: Read the following purchasing criteria before you buy a pollen screen.
1. The materialAs mentioned at the beginning, different materials are used to make pollen protection screens. They differ not only in price, but also in transparency and air permeability. While polyester allows a lot of light to pass through, it has a shorter lifespan than, for example, aluminum.
2. The sizeThere are pollen protection grilles that can be cut individually, but also prefabricated models with a frame. Custom-made products are also possible, but cost more. For this reason, you should measure your windows in advance to find the right pollen screen for your home.
3. AttachmentDepending on the manufacturer, the pollen protection grilles can be easily attached to the windows using Velcro or adhesive tape or magnetic strips. If you choose a model that requires drilling into window frames, you should first ask your landlord for permission if you live in a rented apartment.
4. Tear resistanceRegardless of the material, all pollen protection grilles are actually relatively robust. However, if you have pets with claws, you should choose a particularly sturdy model that is scratch- and tear-resistant. Aluminum fabrics or fiberglass fabrics are more suitable here than polyester and fleece.
5. The transparency When buying a pollen screen, pay attention to the light transmission. Otherwise, your rooms may be significantly darker after installation than before – which can certainly be an advantage in summer, but is not to everyone’s taste.
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