Quick answer: A DIY magnetic fly screen requires attaching our steel tape to your window frame and our magnetic tape to your chosen mesh. This creates a secure, easily removable barrier that keeps insects out while maintaining airflow. It is a cost-effective, drill-free alternative to traditional framed screens.
Nothing ruins a peaceful summer afternoon quite like a rogue wasp treating your living room as its personal race track. We all want to fling our windows wide open when the sun finally makes an appearance in the UK, but the influx of uninvited flying guests often makes us think twice. Traditional framed screens are bulky, expensive, and require a toolkit that most of us would rather leave gathering dust in the garage.
That is exactly why we at Indigo Supplies supply a highly popular DIY fly screen kit designed to make your life infinitely easier. You simply purchase the netting of your choice, and we provide the professional-grade tapes to hold it perfectly in place. It is a delightfully simple project that requires zero drilling, minimal swearing, and takes only a few minutes per window.
This guide will walk you through exactly how our clever little system works. You will learn how to properly apply the adhesive tapes, how to measure your windows, and how this exact same method can be adapted to insulate your home during the colder months.
What is included in the Indigo Supplies fly screen tape kit?
When you order from Indigo Supplies, you receive a heavy-duty, commercial-grade fastening system. Our standard pack includes two 30-metre rolls of tape. One is a flexible magnetic tape, and the other is a matching steel tape. Both measure exactly 12.7mm in width, making them narrow enough to sit discreetly on almost any window frame.
The real magic, however, lies in the adhesive. Both tapes are backed with Tesa 4957 adhesive. This is a formidable, high-performance double-sided tape that laughs in the face of UV rays and fluctuating temperatures. Once you stick it down, it stays down.
How do you install a DIY magnetic fly screen?
Creating your own diy magnetic fly screen is remarkably straightforward. You do not need a degree in engineering to figure this out. Just follow these simple steps to ensure a flawless finish.
1. Clean and prep your window frames
Dirt and grease are the mortal enemies of any adhesive. Grab some rubbing alcohol or a specialized surface cleaner and thoroughly wipe down the flat edges of your window frame. Allow the surface to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
2. Apply the steel tape to the frame
Measure the perimeter of your window frame and cut your steel tape to size. Peel back the protective liner and press the tape firmly onto the frame. Apply consistent pressure along the entire length to ensure the Tesa 4957 adhesive bonds securely.
3. Attach the magnetic tape to your mesh
Next, you need to prepare your netting. Lay your chosen fine mesh material out flat on a clean floor or table. Cut your magnetic tape to match the lengths of the steel tape you just applied to the window. Stick the adhesive side of the magnetic tape directly onto the edges of your mesh.
4. Snap the screen into place
Hold your newly created diy fly screen up to the window. The magnetic strip on the mesh will instantly attract to the steel strip on the frame. The magnetic connection ensures the fly screen stays securely in place, keeping insects out while allowing a glorious breeze to flow through your home. If you make a mistake and attach it slightly crooked, you can just peel it off and snap it back on correctly.
Can you use magnetic fly screen tape for other home projects?
Absolutely. The beauty of this system is its incredible versatility. Because the tapes create a secure but temporary seal, you can swap out the lightweight mesh for much heavier materials depending on your needs.
For instance, if you are a shift worker struggling to sleep during the day, you can switch the insect mesh with black opaque acrylic. Snap it onto the window frame, and you instantly have a custom blackout blind that lets zero light seep through the edges.
Alternatively, as the winter chill sets in, you can replace the mesh with a clear acrylic panel. This creates a brilliant, cost-effective diy secondary glazing solution. A layer of trapped air between your window and the acrylic panel acts as an excellent insulator, helping to reduce heat loss and slash your energy bills. Investing in secondary glazing using our heavy-duty tapes is one of the smartest weekend projects a homeowner can tackle.
Why choose a magnetic system over traditional framed screens?
Choose a magnetic fly screen if you prioritize convenience, affordability, and easy maintenance. Framed screens often require permanent screws in your UPVC or wooden frames, which can void warranties and cause lasting damage.
Furthermore, our magentic fly screen tape allows you to completely remove the mesh when the colder months arrive. You can roll the netting up, pop it in a cupboard, and leave the discreet steel tape on the window frame until next spring. Try doing that with a rigid aluminium frame.
Ready to enjoy a bug-free breeze this summer?
There is no need to suffer through stuffy rooms or spend your evenings chasing flies around the ceiling with a rolled-up magazine. Our trusted tapes provide a professional, long-lasting grip that you can rely on year after year.
At Indigo Supplies, we have been providing businesses and DIY enthusiasts with top-tier industrial materials since 1998. We boast a 5-star Google rating and a steadfast price beater guarantee. If you find the same product cheaper elsewhere in the UK, just give us a call and we will do our absolute best to beat it.
To get your hands on our premium fastening kit and start building your custom screens today, click here to buy now.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What type of mesh should I buy for my fly screen?
You should purchase a lightweight, flexible fibreglass or polyester insect mesh. These materials are durable, easy to cut with standard household scissors, and adhere perfectly to the Tesa 4957 adhesive backing on our magnetic tapes.
Will the adhesive damage my UPVC window frames?
Tesa 4957 is a premium adhesive designed for secure, long-term bonding. While it is incredibly strong, it can usually be removed from UPVC frames using a dedicated adhesive remover or white spirit if you ever decide to take the steel tape down permanently.
Can this tape hold heavy acrylic panels for winter insulation?
Yes. The magnetic attraction between the 12.7mm steel and magnetic tapes is strong enough to support 2mm or 3mm clear acrylic panels, which are commonly used for DIY secondary glazing. Just ensure you apply the tape around the entire perimeter of the panel for maximum hold.
Do I need any special tools to install this kit?
No special tools are required. You will only need a tape measure, a standard pair of scissors to cut the tapes and your mesh, and a cleaning cloth to prepare your window frames before application.