One of the biggest challenges facing condominium developers and owners is how to successfully blend uniformity and aesthetics. With so many options available to builders these days, condos are in a class by themselves in that they are bound by rules and guidelines when it comes to exterior finishes and additions. So just where do retractable screen products fit in to all of this? Can a product that is typically viewed as an add-on be incorporated into a development that is guided by consistency? Definitely. All it takes is a little background research, some preparation and planning.

For developers, preservation of design is critical for any condominium project. The addition of materials requires consideration of several factors: functionality, beauty, original design, longevity and value. Condo boards or community standards committees are generally in charge of determining these kinds of things and should be considered a first point of contact when it comes to installing retractable screens in those suites that have requested them. And, if you’d like to include retractable screen products as part of the entire project, it’s good to know that these fixtures, when professionally installed by a reputable company, are considered a high-value add-on when it comes time to resell.

For owners, there are numerous checkpoints to be considered. The main one, of course, is will a condo association allow the addition of retractable screens? And, if so, what are the conditions that have to be met? Finding answers to these questions isn’t always a straightforward process, as there may be conflicting answers, depending on who one talks to. Here at Ontario Screen Systems, we have a dedicated office resource who deals specifically with condo boards and can advise if a particular condominium development has been approved for retractable screen products. Carol Attfield, a second-generation door and window entrepreneur and industry expert, has been assisting condo boards, property managers and developers with their retractable screen solutions since 1999.

From there, it’s a matter of deciding what products are to be installed and where. When looking at options, keep in mind important factors such as available trims and finishes, colours, warranties and access to local distributors for maintenance and service. Depending on the type and size of opening – and the direction that the door swings or slides – retractable screens vary as to whether they are mounted on the interior or exterior of the doorway. It’s best to consult an experienced retractable screen company for information and advice. All in all, whether you’re a condo developer or a condo owner, there are definitely several options available to you when it comes to incorporating the beauty, style, function and practicality of retractable screen products.