Sitting outside during the spring, summer and fall is a great way to relax at home or the cottage. Feeling a lovely breeze, hearing and seeing the surrounding environment, and just drifting away into a calm headspace is a wonderful way to spend the day.
But it’s hard to enjoy the experience when everything from pests to changing weather conspires to interrupt your serenity.
Transforming your outdoor living space with professionally installed, high quality screens can keep those peaceful moments lasting much longer, explains Kevin Cardwell of Muskokify.
“Screens can offer a lot of protection, and not only from insects or other pests,” says Kevin. “There are many options, including screens that will reduce UV rays by 98 per cent, which protects furniture, flooring, and boats from fading.”


Muskokify’s Canadian-made screens cover openings up to 42 feet wide and 14 feet tall and come in a variety of colours, with several mesh and vinyl choices.
“We can cover the patio, porch, or Muskoka room so you won’t have to fight the bugs. It lets you get the most from your cottage,” says Kevin. His clients have also used screens and shutters to create sheltered outdoor bar areas.
Most screens come with manual and motorized options, while privacy screens can also be installed.
“A nice fall day is great for opening the shutters and screens,” says Kevin. “Or any time the threat from insects is low. But, with the motorized option, you can quickly close in the area when conditions change.”
Large openings
For larger decks, Kevin recommends going with a Horizon screen that is specifically designed to cover large openings. He says it’s the best screen on the market, and can be installed on any difficult-to-screen opening, protecting up to 21 feet with a single unit. By doubling up, it can comfortably reach 42 feet.
“With the right planning and expert installation, you can make a Muskoka room out of an open deck,” says Kevin.

It’s not only decks that these large screens are built to fit. They can be paired with oversized entrances such as French doors, accordion doors, garage doors and more.
The screens are made for high-traffic areas, and can withstand 100 km per hour winds.
“Whether you want to protect a small porch sitting area or transform a large deck into an outdoor living space, getting the right screen expertly installed will transform your space.”
TEXT CHRIS OCCHIUZZI | PHOTOS ANDREW FEARMAN