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The 7 Best Retractable Screen Doors of 2024

Enjoy a breeze without bugs

MMI Door White Aluminum Inswing Retractable Double Screen Door

The Spruce / Amelia Manley

Compared to traditional sliding or swinging screen doors, retractable screen doors are typically easier to operate, and you can often do so using one hand or a push-button closer. As the name implies, the screens are designed to remain in a retracted position, allowing users to leave the door open as they make their way in and out of the house. 

“Retractable screen doors are a great way to open up your home to light and fresh air while keeping bugs and other pests out,” says Brian Shaunfield, a store manager at Lowe’s. “In addition to protecting your home from the elements, screens increase curb appeal, deflect water, and protect windows from dirt and debris.” 

A reliable retractable screen door should be easy to install and operate, and since it serves as an outdoor barrier, it should be durable enough to withstand the elements. For that reason, many doors are outfitted with a magnetic closure to provide a watertight seal when the door is closed. All of our top picks include all of the necessary hardware for do-it-yourself installation. Many can also be adjusted to fit door frames of various sizes, as well as different door types, including double doors and French doors. 

We researched the best retractable screen doors on the market, carefully evaluating their installation requirements, size compatibility, materials, durability, and overall performance.

What We Like
  • Adjustable width

  • Discreet and streamlined profile

  • Lockable latch for added security

  • Available in multiple finishes and sizes

What We Don't Like
  • Easy to walk into

The Andersen LuminAire Retractable Screen Door earns our top spot because it is extremely easy to operate and install. This screen door glides smoothly and easily, and it can be operated with one hand for added convenience. 

The door comes with a locking latch that adds extra security. Installation takes about 30 minutes, and the door comes with a drill bit to make the process go smoothly. The only additional tools required are a power drill or screwdriver and sealant. 

The LuminAire features an aluminum frame and reinforced corners for durability. Another important point to mention is that the aluminum mesh is nearly transparent, which is great if you want an obstructed view through the glass. However, it's important to note that the mesh can be easy to miss and walk into, so it may not be the best choice for homes with playful children or pets who could accidentally damage it.

This screen can be adjusted to fit door frames between 32 and 36 inches, and you can install it as a left—or right-handed door. We recommend checking Andersen's helpful and detailed PDF to help you determine whether or not this screen will fit in your space.

Please note that this screen is intended for doors that swing inward and is not compatible with patio doors. The LuminAire is available in four neutral frame finishes—white, sandstone, bronze, and black—and in several sizes to fit door frames of various heights. It also includes a color-matched handle for a streamlined design. 

Dimensions: 36 x 80 inches (available in two other sizes) | Frame material: Aluminum | Color options: White, sandtone, bronze, and black

What We Like
  •  Easy to install

  • Magnetic closure for hands-free use

  • Ideal for homes with children and pets

What We Don’t Like
  • No locking mechanism

  • Not the most attractive

The Augo Magnetic Screen Door is a fast, effective, and affordable way to keep bugs out. It has 30 magnets that run along the seam, which allows for hands-free use. The two panels open and close automatically when people pass through, which, unlike our best overall pick, makes this screen a good choice for high-traffic households with children and pets. 

It can be adjusted to fit door frames up to 38 inches wide and 83 inches tall, and it’s constructed from heavy-duty black mesh to resist wear and tear. While this style isn't the most attractive or discreet, it’s a budget-friendly alternative to costlier options with plastic or metal frames. 

One unique feature of this screen door, compared to other magnetic ones, is that it has handy snaps to hold the sides in place to allow for easy entry and exit. It is also by far the easiest option to install from our list. Simply use the provided thumbtack and velcro-like strips, and you're good to go. It’s important to note, however, that this screen doesn’t have any locking mechanism, and there is no way to keep children and pets from moving in and out (unless the door is closed). 

Dimensions: 36 x 83 inches | Frame material: Fiberglass mesh | Color options: Black

What We Like
  • Available in multiple sizes and colors

  • Hands-free foot pedal holds door open

  • Ideal for extreme climates

  • Pre-assembled for easy installation

What We Don’t Like
  • Bulkier than other options

Although this door is bulkier than other options, it’s a great choice if you live in a storm-prone area with heavy winds. Its 1.5-inch thick aluminum frame and plenty of weatherstripping make it a good bet for harsher climates where you want to keep drafts out.

This storm door from Andersen features a retractable screen that can be opened and closed vertically with one hand, providing almost instant ventilation as needed. For added convenience, it also features a hands-free foot pedal at the bottom that holds the door open.

This door comes in four sizes, ranging from 30 to 36 inches wide, to fit a variety of door frames. Additionally, it comes in eight different colors, allowing you to choose a color that complements or contrasts with your existing exterior. However, it is one of the more expensive options on this list, but that is not surprising given its vast array of features.

The Andersen 3000 series has a built-in deadbolt lock for added security, and the handle set, which comes in 10 different finishes, is included. For the window itself, customers can choose between clear glass or Low-E glass, which is darker but much more energy efficient.

Please note that this door only swings outwards, and you can choose between left- or right-handed installation. To top it off, this door comes pre-assembled for easy installation, which can take as little as 45 minutes, according to the manufacturer. 

Dimensions: 32 x 80 inches (other sizes available) | Frame material: Aluminum | Color options: White, almond, sandtone, terratone, cinnamon toast, charcoal gray, bronze, black

What We Like
  • Built-in pet door

  • Bottom expanders seal opening

  • window easily opens with one hand

What We Don’t Like
  • Only fits pets up to 40 pounds

This elegant storm door has a retractable screen that allows you to control the breeze, let in light, and keep pests out. It also offers an array of convenient features to justify its steep price tag. Perhaps the most noteworthy feature is a built-in 8 x 12-inch pet door, which allows animals to come and go as they please. 

It’s important to note that the door only accommodates pets up to 40 pounds. The door can be held open with the tap of your toe, and there is a keyed deadbolt lock for added security and peace of mind. 

Although the full glass door allows maximum natural light into your home, it still provides superior weather protection. The door has double weatherstripping and an overlapping edge on the aluminum frame to create a tight seal. It’s available in two sizes to suit 32- and 36-inch-wide openings, and it comes in five neutral colors to complement almost any exterior

For added convenience, this door features universal hinges for left- or right-sided installation. One caveat to this otherwise stellar offering is that the handle is sold separately, and you can choose from several shapes and finishes.   

Dimensions: 32 x 81 inches (wider size available) | Frame material: Aluminum | Color options: White, black, brown, almond, sandstone

Wayfair Verona Home Design Retractable Screen
PHOTO:

Wayfair

What We Like
  • Wool pile creates a tight seal

  • Comes with locking mechanism

  • Screen stays out of the way when not in use

  • Compatible with inward-opening French doors

What We Don’t Like
  • Installation can be tricky

This double-screen set by Verona Home Design is one of the few options compatible with French doors. The set consists of two aluminum sliding screen doors, which feature a track wool pile on the top and bottom to keep the frame securely in place.

The white frame will blend in with many decor styles, and the aluminum mesh offers greater visibility, providing an unobstructed view through the glass. These screens’ 2-inch thickness is ideal for keeping out drafts and pests, and there’s also a locking mechanism on the handle for added protection.

These retractable screen doors are 82 inches high and fit door openings up to 74.25 inches wide. Thanks to a monorail track design, the doors retract smoothly and stay out of the way when not in use. Keep in mind that this set can only be used with French doors that open inward.

Dimensions: 74.25 x 82 inches | Frame material: Aluminum | Color options: White

What We Like
  • Opens and closes gently

  • Can be operated with one finger

  • Self-adjusts to fit uneven openings

  • Removable cassette for seasonal storage

What We Don't Like
  • Doesn’t have a lock

  • Striped design isn’t the most attractive or discreet

This retractable screen door can be operated with the touch of a finger, making it an excellent choice for a high-traffic area. It also has a brake mechanism that allows it to open and close gently, keeping noise to a minimum. 

Thanks to a flat bottom, this door is also accessible for wheelchairs and walkers, as there is no lip or edge to get over. It comes with a white frame and can fit openings as wide as 36 inches and 81 inches tall. We love that the door self-adjusts to fit uneven openings, further adding to its convenience. 

The Inspire 300 is made of aluminum and features a die-cast metal handle for durability; however, it doesn’t have a locking mechanism. One caveat to the pleated design is that it is distracting and not as attractive or discreet as other options. On the other hand, the striped design is ideal if you want to prevent people from walking into the door. A nice feature is that the cassette can be removed for seasonal storage, which means you don’t have to take the screen out completely.

Dimensions:  36 x 81 inches | Frame material: Aluminum | Color options: White

What We Like
  • E-Z Glide System for smooth functionality

  • Striped pattern increases visibility

  • Durable, rust-free aluminum housing and track

What We Don't Like
  • Installation can be tricky

The Larson Brisa Retractable Screen Door can be pulled from side to side across the entryway as needed, making it an ideal choice for sliding patio doors. The full-view screen provides an unobstructed view of your yard, letting in a fresh breeze while keeping insects and debris out.

This single door is designed to fit in door frames that are 80 inches tall and between 32 and 36 inches wide. If you have a narrower door, it can be modified with two simple cuts. This screen can be installed on the ​right or left side of the door, and it reacts into a cassette when not in use. 

One of our favorite features is the innovative E-Z Glide System, which helps to reduce noise and ensures that the door opens and retracts smoothly every time. The ergonomic handle allows for easy, one-handed operation, and it’s equipped with a locking latch for additional security. 

We also appreciate the subtle stripes on the screen so people are aware that it’s there and don’t accidentally walk through it. Once installed, no maintenance is required because the aluminum housing and track are rust-free. We read some reports of parts breaking over time, so be sure to take advantage of the warranty if you encounter any problems. 

Dimensions: 36 x 81 inches (adjusts to widths between 32 to 36 inches) | Frame material: Aluminum | Color options: White

Final Verdict

Our favorite choice is the Andersen LuminAire Retractable Screen Door because it's solidly constructed, slides smoothly on its track, and is easy to install. If you prefer something that's more obvious, try the Larson Inspire Pleated Retractable Screen Door, which has dark stripes that serve as cues that a screen is installed and can be customized to fit a variety of different sills. If you're trying to save money or can't install a fixture like a screen door (maybe you're renting), try the simple, affordable Augo Magnetic Screen Door.

What to Look for in a Retractable Screen Door

Size Compatibility

To ensure that a retractable screen door fits properly, you must accurately measure the dimensions of the door frame in which you plan to install it. If your screen door does not fit correctly, it may sag or create gaps in the material, which can affect both the appearance and function of the screen. When measuring your door frame, Shaunfield recommends taking three measurements—one across the top, middle, and bottom of the door—and recording the narrowest dimension. 

You should measure the opening height (vertically) and record the shortest dimension to ensure accuracy. Many products, like the Andersen 3000 Series Full View Retractable Screen Storm Door (best weather-resistant pick), come in multiple sizes to fit different-sized openings.

Mesh Options

Typically, screen doors are made of either fiberglass or aluminum mesh. 

  • Fiberglass mesh is one of the most durable options because it doesn’t dent or crease easily, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas with children and pets. Our best budget pick, the Augo Magnetic Screen Door, features sturdy fiberglass mesh and a magnetic closure, allowing pets to pass through with ease. Since it is thicker than aluminum mesh, fiberglass is more visible and less opaque, hindering your outside view to some extent. 
  • Aluminum mesh tends to be the most expensive option, but it offers superior durability, weather resistance, and transparency. Many aluminum options, like the Andersen LuminAire Retractable Screen Door, are coated for better protection against weather and rust. While aluminum is great for providing an unobstructed view and letting in ample light, it’s also easier to walk into when it’s closed due to its discreet appearance.

Installation requirements

All of the products on our list include the necessary hardware for do-it-yourself installation. Some retractable screen doors will require a screwdriver or power drill to attach it to the door frame. “You can also find magnetic retractable screen doors that require minimal installation,” says Shaunfield. “They attach to your door frame with hook-and-loop fasteners and have magnetic strips that keep them closed, providing a temporary door for grilling, outdoor dining, and more.” Our best budget pick, the Augo Magnetic Screen Door, is extremely easy to install using metal thumbtacks and adhesive strips. 

Durability

To ensure durability, “you want to make sure to look for something that is high quality and will last a long time—this means a sturdy metal frame with tracks on the top and bottom, a canister that houses the screen, and a magnet or hook that holds the door closed,” advises Angie Hicks, co-founder of Angi. Retractable screen doors that feature aluminum construction, such as the Larson Brisa Retractable Screen Door (our best for pets pick), provide the best protection against the elements, rust, and corrosion. If you live in a harsher climate, weatherstripping around the door, like found on the Andersen 3000 Series Full View Retractable Screen Storm Door frame, helps to resist wind and keep out drafts.

Standout Features 

Self-closing mechanism

Some retractable screen doors feature a magnetic closure to ensure that the door automatically shuts behind you. Once a user walks through the opening, the weight of the magnets will pull the screen closed. Our best budget pick, the Augo Magnetic Screen Door  opens on contact and closes automatically after every use, allowing children and pets to pass through with ease.  

Built-in pet door

Certain retractable screen doors come with a built-in pet door, a convenient feature that provides easy access for pets while keeping insects out. Our best for pets pick, the Larson Tradewinds Pet Door, has an 8 by 12-inch door that accommodates pets up to 40 pounds, allowing them to come and go as they please. 

Wind resistance

Retractable screen doors have certain features, such as reinforced corners, weather stripping, and adhesive strips, to help them stay in place on windy days. However, if you live in an extreme climate, your best bet might be a storm door with a retractable screen. Our top pick in this category, the Andersen 3000 Series Retractable Screen Storm Door, features dual weatherstripping around the frame to withstand strong winds without damage.

Integrated security lock

Many retractable screen doors offer an integrated locking mechanism for added protection. Some doors feature a simple lockable latch, while others, including our best weather-resistant pick, the Andersen 3000 Series Retractable Screen Storm Door, offer a keyed deadbolt lock for better home security.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Sage McHugh is a commerce writer who joined The Spruce in 2019. She specializes in appliances, cleaning, and home organization topics and has personally tested everything from wine openers to dish racks and vacuums. For this list, McHugh consulted reviews and considered dozens of retractable screen doors, evaluating products on their installation requirements, size compatibility, materials, durability, and overall performance.

Our Experts:

The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Window Types and Technologies. U.S. Department of Energy.