Published on July 21, 2025
Finding the right shading solution for your home can feel overwhelming, so we’ve compiled a trusty guide to help you find the right solution for your space. Cable guide vs motorized screens with track. What’s the difference, and why does it matter for your space?
Motorized screens with cable guide is great on the outside of your home on large picture windows, pergola spaces, and for large openings to help keep out the heat, sun, and peering eyes. They work great for spots that don’t have any support beams or columns where a traditional track could go while still retracting out of sight to maintain your home’s design and beautiful views.
Phantom motorized screens with track are great for patio or pergola spaces that may need extra protection, not just against the sun but also against the bugs and critters. It has all the benefits that cable guide offers and more. Add a dual roller system to your motorized screens for double the options with luxury vinyl, or a thicker fabric. These screens help to expand your living space to create an inspiring indoor-outdoor space that’s great for hosting, entertaining, or just to relax and enjoy by yourself.
Here’s a trusty guide to help you find the best screen for your space.
| Feature | Cable Guide | Track System |
|---|---|---|
| Guidance | Self-tensioning stainless steel cables | Side tracks that can be surface mounted or recessed. |
| Insect Protection | Light to moderate | High |
| Aesthetic | Minimalist, unobtrusive and retractable | Structured, more enclosed but retractable |
| Best for | Windows, open patios, no structural supports | Patios, pergolas, balconies, garages, and other slightly enclosed spaces |
| Structural Integration | Flexible; no need for posts or tracks | Requires framing or space for tracks |
| Benefits | Solar protection, increase privacy, fresh air | Bug and critter protection, solar protection, climate control, increase privacy, expand living space, fresh air |
No matter what option you pick, your Phantom Screen will come custom made to order to fit your needs and professionally installed by your local Phantom expert. From consultation to installation, you’ll be screened and covered for every occasion.
Welcome to Ontario Screen Systems! We are the leading provider of Phantom retractable screens for doors, windows, and large openings in Ontario, including motorized screens.
We’ve been providing customers with innovative and well-designed screening options for their homes across Ontario and throughout the Greater Toronto Area since 1994. Our Screen Experts offer high-quality retractable screens ranging from single and double-door to motorized screens for decks, patios, and other large openings that retract out of sight when not in use. We have screens for all types of homes and budgets! Call us at 1-888-PHANTOM or fill out the Contact Us form for a FREE estimate.
Ontario Screen Systems Inc.
1295 Eglinton Avenue East, Unit 14
(West of Dixie Road)
Mississauga, Ontario L4W 3E6
905.624.0824 – Local
416.410.0824 – Toronto
1.888.742.6866 – Toll Free
905.624.1091 – Facsimile
Ontario Screen Systems is an active member of Building, Industry and Land Development (Greater Toronto Home Builders’ Association)
