Imagine enjoying your patio on a beautiful St. Louis evening without swatting mosquitoes, squinting through sun glare, or retreating indoors when the heat becomes unbearable. Shade Haven STL transforms ordinary patios into comfortable, bug-free outdoor living spaces with custom motorized patio screens designed specifically for Missouri’s challenging climate.
With the simple touch of a button, retractable motorized patio screens drop into place, creating an instant barrier against insects, harsh sunlight, wind, and rain—while maintaining your view and fresh air circulation. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, relaxing after work, or extending your entertaining season into fall, motorized patio screens give you complete control over your outdoor comfort.
Stop letting bugs, heat, and weather dictate when you can enjoy your patio. Take back your outdoor living space.
What Are Motorized Patio Screens?
Motorized patio screens are custom-designed retractable screen systems that mount to your patio structure—whether you have a covered patio, pergola, deck, or screened porch. Unlike permanent screens that stay in place year-round, motorized screens deploy and retract smoothly with motorized operation, giving you flexibility to enjoy open views when desired and protected comfort when needed.
These innovative systems create a protective barrier that blocks:
- Mosquitoes, flies, and stinging insects that plague St. Louis outdoor spaces from spring through fall
- Intense sun and UV rays that make patios unbearably hot during summer afternoons
- Wind and blowing debris that disrupts outdoor gatherings
- Light rain and moisture that would otherwise force you indoors
- Prying eyes when you want privacy in your backyard
Modern motorized patio screens operate via remote control, wall-mounted switches, or smartphone apps. Many systems integrate seamlessly with smart home platforms like Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit, allowing voice commands like “Alexa, lower the patio screens” or automated scheduling based on time of day, temperature, or sun position.
Common Problems Motorized Patio Screens Solve
Mosquitoes Make Your Patio Unusable
St. Louis mosquito season runs from April through October, with peak activity during humid summer evenings—exactly when you want to enjoy your outdoor space. Traditional solutions like citronella candles, bug zappers, and chemical sprays provide limited relief and create unpleasant odors or health concerns.
The Solution: Motorized patio screens use fine mesh (typically 18×14 or 20×20 weave) that blocks mosquitoes, gnats, flies, and even tiny no-see-ums while maintaining excellent airflow and visibility. You can enjoy bug-free outdoor dining, evening relaxation, and entertaining without constantly applying repellent or breathing chemical fumes.
Your Patio Becomes Too Hot to Use
When afternoon temperatures climb into the 90s with high humidity—common throughout St. Louis summers—direct sunlight turns uncovered or partially covered patios into ovens. Even covered patios suffer from heat radiating off surrounding surfaces and trapped hot air.
The Solution: Motorized screens with solar mesh options block up to 90% of UV rays and significantly reduce heat gain. By creating shade while maintaining airflow, patio screens can lower the temperature in your outdoor space by 10-15 degrees, making summer afternoons comfortable again. This natural cooling reduces the need to run expensive air conditioning or abandon your outdoor space entirely.
Sun Glare Ruins Outdoor Entertainment
Trying to watch TV on your patio, work on a laptop outdoors, or simply enjoy conversation becomes impossible when blinding sun glare hits during certain times of day. West and south-facing patios are particularly affected by late afternoon sun.
The Solution: Retractable screens with solar mesh diffuse harsh sunlight while maintaining visibility. You can enjoy your outdoor TV, use electronic devices comfortably, and eliminate squinting during conversations—all while keeping your view of the yard.
Wind and Blowing Debris Disrupt Outdoor Living
Spring and fall in St. Louis bring gusty winds that blow pollen, leaves, dust, and debris across your patio, covering furniture and making outdoor dining unpleasant. Strong winds also make it uncomfortable to sit outside even when temperatures are perfect.
The Solution: Motorized patio screens create a wind barrier that reduces gusts by 70-80% while filtering out airborne debris. Your patio furniture stays cleaner, outdoor dining becomes more enjoyable, and you can use your space comfortably even on breezy days.
You Can’t Extend Your Outdoor Season
Most St. Louis homeowners abandon their patios by late September, missing out on beautiful fall weather because evening temperatures drop and insects remain active. Similarly, spring evenings are often too cool or buggy to enjoy outdoor spaces.
The Solution: Motorized patio screens trap warmth during cooler evenings, allowing you to extend your outdoor season by several weeks on both ends. Combined with patio heaters or fire features, screened patios become usable from April through November.
Lack of Privacy Limits Patio Use
If your patio faces neighbors, a street, or public areas, you may feel exposed when trying to relax outdoors. This lack of privacy prevents many homeowners from fully enjoying their outdoor investment.
The Solution: Solar mesh and privacy mesh options provide varying degrees of opacity—you can see out clearly while outside observers see only shadows or reflections. This creates a private outdoor room where you can relax without feeling on display.
The Shade Haven STL Installation Process
Step 1: Free In-Home Consultation
Your motorized patio screen project begins with a complimentary, no-pressure consultation at your home. Brent Cunningham, owner of Shade Haven STL, will visit at your convenience to:
- Assess your patio structure, dimensions, and configuration
- Discuss how you use your outdoor space and what challenges you face
- Explain screen mesh options (insect mesh, solar mesh, privacy mesh)
- Demonstrate motorization and smart home integration capabilities
- Show you color samples and material options
- Answer all your questions with honest, expert advice
This consultation typically takes 45-60 minutes and gives you a clear understanding of what’s possible for your specific patio.
Step 2: Custom Design & Accurate Measurement
Using professional-grade laser measurement tools, we create a custom patio screen solution designed specifically for your space. Every installation is unique, accounting for:
- Exact opening dimensions for a perfect, gap-free fit
- Structural attachment points that ensure secure, long-lasting installation
- Aesthetic preferences including frame colors that complement your home
- Functional requirements like which sides need screening and desired screen type
- Motorization options from basic remote control to full smart home integration
You’ll receive a detailed written quote that clearly explains all costs, materials, timeline, and warranty coverage—no hidden fees or surprises.
Step 3: Professional Installation
Our experienced installation team arrives on schedule with all necessary materials and equipment. Most patio screen installations are completed in 1-2 days depending on size and complexity. We:
- Protect your patio furniture and surrounding areas
- Install mounting tracks and motor housings with precision
- Fit custom screens and test all functions thoroughly
- Program remote controls and smart home integration
- Demonstrate operation and care instructions
- Perform final quality inspection
- Clean up completely and remove all installation debris
Step 4: Enjoy Your Transformed Outdoor Space
From the moment installation is complete, you’ll have full control over your outdoor comfort. Lower your screens with a button press when mosquitoes emerge at dusk, raise them to enjoy unobstructed views during pleasant weather, or set automated schedules that adjust screens based on time of day or sun position.
Your patio becomes a true outdoor living room—comfortable, protected, and usable far more months of the year.
Motorized Patio Screen Options & Features
Screen Mesh Types
Standard Insect Mesh
Fine 18×14 or 20×20 weave that blocks mosquitoes, flies, and other insects while providing excellent visibility and maximum airflow. Ideal for primary insect protection with minimal view obstruction.
Solar Mesh
Advanced mesh that blocks 80-90% of UV rays and reduces heat gain while providing insect protection. Available in various opacity levels (70%, 80%, 90%) to balance sun protection with visibility. Perfect for west and south-facing patios that receive intense afternoon sun.
Privacy Mesh
Tighter weave or darker colors that provide enhanced privacy while maintaining outward visibility. You can see your yard clearly while neighbors see only shadows. Ideal for patios facing streets or neighboring properties.
Heavy-Duty Mesh
Reinforced material designed for high-traffic areas, homes with pets, or locations requiring maximum durability. Resists tears and damage better than standard mesh.
Motorization & Control Options
Remote Control Operation
Handheld remote provides simple, reliable one-touch operation from anywhere on your patio. Most systems include multiple remotes for convenience.
Wall-Mounted Switch
Hardwired wall switch offers permanent, convenient control—ideal for frequently accessed patios. Can be placed near patio doors for easy access.
Smartphone App Control
Control your patio screens from anywhere using your phone. Adjust screens while you’re away, set schedules, or operate from inside your home. Compatible with iOS and Android.
Smart Home Integration
Full integration with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit enables voice control (“Hey Google, lower the patio screens”), automated routines based on time or weather, and coordination with other smart home devices.
Wind & Sun Sensors
Advanced automation that automatically adjusts screens based on wind speed or sun intensity, protecting your investment and optimizing comfort without manual intervention.
Frame Colors & Finishes
Choose from multiple powder-coated aluminum frame colors to complement your home’s exterior:
- White
- Bronze
- Black
- Tan/Beige
- Custom colors available
Powder-coated finishes resist fading, chipping, and corrosion, maintaining appearance for years even in Missouri’s variable weather.
Configuration Options
Single-Drop Screens
Individual screens that cover one side of your patio, perfect for blocking afternoon sun from a specific direction or creating a wind barrier.
Multi-Screen Systems
Multiple screens on different sides of your patio for complete enclosure or strategic coverage based on sun angle and prevailing winds.
Full Enclosure
Screens on all open sides create a completely protected outdoor room—ideal for three-season rooms or maximum insect protection.
Benefits of Motorized Patio Screens
Dramatically Increase Usable Outdoor Time
Motorized patio screens can extend your outdoor living season by 2-3 months on both ends—using your patio comfortably from April through November instead of just June through August. This represents a 50-75% increase in the time you can actually enjoy your outdoor investment.
Protect Your Health Without Chemicals
Mosquitoes in the St. Louis area can carry West Nile virus and other diseases. Patio screens provide effective protection without chemical sprays, foggers, or repellents that may cause respiratory irritation or skin sensitivity. This is especially important for families with children, elderly relatives, or anyone with chemical sensitivities.
Reduce Energy Costs
By creating shade and reducing heat gain on your home’s exterior, patio screens can lower cooling costs by reducing the temperature of adjacent interior rooms. Homeowners report 5-15% reductions in summer cooling costs when screens shade west and south-facing walls.
Increase Home Value
Motorized outdoor features are increasingly attractive to homebuyers, demonstrating smart home readiness and expanded living space. Professional patio screens typically return 60-80% of their cost in increased home value, with the added benefit of years of personal enjoyment before selling.
Protect Patio Furniture & Investments
UV rays fade cushions, deteriorate fabrics, and damage outdoor furniture. Wind blows debris that scratches surfaces. Rain causes moisture damage. Motorized screens protect your patio furniture investment, significantly extending the life of cushions, rugs, and decorative elements.
Create Flexible Outdoor Rooms
Retractable screens give you the best of both worlds—completely open patios when you want unobstructed views and fresh air, or protected outdoor rooms when you need comfort and privacy. This flexibility means you never have to compromise.
Effortless Operation
No struggling with manual screens, zippers, or heavy panels. Motorized operation makes using your patio screens as simple as pressing a button—easy enough for children and elderly family members.
Smart Home Convenience
Set automated schedules that lower screens at sunset when mosquitoes emerge, raise them at sunrise to enjoy morning coffee, or adjust based on temperature. Voice control means you never need to get up to adjust comfort. Integration with other smart devices creates seamless outdoor living automation.
Enjoy Outdoor Entertainment Year-Round
Host comfortable outdoor gatherings even during peak mosquito season or hot summer afternoons. Your patio becomes a legitimate entertaining space that guests actually enjoy, not just tolerate.
How to Know When You Need Motorized Patio Screens
You Avoid Your Patio During Prime Hours
If you find yourself staying indoors during beautiful evenings because mosquitoes swarm the moment you step outside, or if afternoon heat makes your patio unusable during summer, motorized screens solve both problems immediately.
You’ve Invested in Patio Upgrades But Can’t Enjoy Them
Homeowners who’ve spent thousands on patio furniture, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, or patio construction often realize they can’t actually use these investments due to bugs or heat. Motorized screens protect your investment and make it usable.
You Have West or South-Facing Exposure
Patios facing west or south receive intense afternoon sun that creates unbearable heat and glare. If your patio becomes unusable from 2 PM to 7 PM during summer, solar mesh patio screens can reclaim those hours.
Your Family Wants to Eat Outdoors
If you’d love to have family dinners on the patio but bugs make it impossible, or if you’re constantly moving food back indoors when insects appear, motorized screens create a protected dining space you’ll actually use.
You’re Sensitive to Bug Spray or Prefer Natural Solutions
Families with young children, pregnant women, or anyone with chemical sensitivities often avoid chemical repellents. Patio screens provide effective protection without any chemical exposure.
You Work From Home and Want Outdoor Office Space
Remote workers increasingly want to work outdoors on nice days, but sun glare on laptop screens and afternoon heat make this impractical. Screened patios with solar mesh create comfortable outdoor workspace with controlled lighting.
You Have Pets That Need Protected Outdoor Time
Dogs and cats enjoy being outdoors but need protection from insects, excessive heat, and wandering off. Screened patios create safe outdoor spaces where pets can relax while you supervise comfortably.
You Entertain Frequently
If you host gatherings and want to use your patio as overflow space or primary entertaining area, motorized screens ensure guests are comfortable regardless of bugs, sun, or wind.
Your Current Screens Are Damaged or Outdated
If you have old, torn, or manual screens that are difficult to operate and don’t retract, upgrading to motorized retractable screens provides dramatically improved functionality and appearance.
You Want to Increase Home Value Before Selling
Motorized outdoor features are attractive selling points that differentiate your home from comparable properties. If you’re preparing to sell within 2-3 years, patio screens provide both personal enjoyment and return on investment.
Why Choose Shade Haven STL for Your Motorized Patio Screens
Local, Family-Owned Expertise You Can Trust
When you contact Shade Haven STL, you speak directly with Brent Cunningham, the owner—not a salesperson working on commission. With over 15 years of experience in custom window treatments and exterior shade solutions, Brent personally oversees every project from consultation through installation. As a local O’Fallon business owner, his reputation depends on your complete satisfaction.
Specialists in Exterior Motorized Solutions
Unlike general contractors or interior-focused window treatment companies, Shade Haven STL has strategically specialized in exterior motorized screens and shades. We understand the unique challenges of St. Louis weather—extreme heat, high humidity, aggressive mosquitoes, and variable conditions—and design systems that perform flawlessly in this specific climate.
“We Bring the Showroom to You” Convenience
As a service area business, we eliminate the hassle and time waste of visiting showrooms. Brent comes to your home with samples, demonstrates options on your actual patio, and provides recommendations based on your specific structure, exposure, and goals. You make decisions in the comfort of your home with no pressure.
Smart Home Integration Experts
We specialize in seamless integration with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit. If you’re building a smart home ecosystem, we ensure your patio screens work perfectly with your existing setup—including programming automated routines and troubleshooting connectivity.
Transparent, Educational Approach
Following the “They Ask, You Answer” philosophy, we believe in educating customers rather than pressuring them. You’ll receive honest answers about costs, realistic timelines, and whether patio screens are the right solution for your situation. We’ll even discuss alternatives if they better serve your needs.
Professional, In-House Installation
We never outsource installation to subcontractors. Our experienced team handles every installation personally, ensuring precision fit, proper operation, and attention to detail that protects your home and delivers lasting performance.
Serving the 15-Mile Radius Around O’Fallon
We focus exclusively on the St. Louis metro area within 15 miles of O’Fallon, including Lake Saint Louis, Dardenne Prairie, Cottleville, Saint Peters, Saint Charles, Wentzville, and surrounding communities. This focused service area means we’re always nearby for consultations, installations, and any service needs.
Long-Term Relationship Focus
As a local business, we’re invested in long-term relationships, not one-time transactions. Your satisfaction builds our reputation in the community. We’re here for ongoing support, maintenance, and future projects as your outdoor living needs evolve.
Motorized Patio Screen Pricing & Investment Value
What Influences the Cost of Motorized Patio Screens?
Understanding the factors that affect pricing helps you make informed decisions and set realistic budget expectations:
Screen Size & Coverage Area
Larger openings require more materials and heavier-duty motors. A single 10-foot wide screen costs significantly less than enclosing a 20×15-foot patio with screens on three sides. Industry pricing typically ranges from $20-$75 per square foot depending on specifications.
Screen Mesh Type
Standard insect mesh is the most economical option. Solar mesh with UV protection costs 15-25% more due to advanced materials and manufacturing. Privacy mesh and heavy-duty options fall in between. The performance benefits often justify the additional investment for specific applications.
Motorization Level
Basic remote-controlled systems are more affordable than full smart home integration with Wi-Fi connectivity, smartphone apps, and voice control. Wind and sun sensors add additional cost but provide automated convenience and system protection.
Number of Screens
Single-drop screens for targeted coverage (blocking afternoon sun from one direction) cost less than multi-screen systems that enclose multiple sides. Full enclosures require more materials, motors, and installation labor.
Frame Style & Finish
Standard powder-coated aluminum frames in common colors (white, bronze, black) are most economical. Custom colors or premium finishes increase costs modestly.
Installation Complexity
Straightforward installations on standard covered patios are most affordable. Unique architectural features, unusual dimensions, structural reinforcement needs, or difficult access can increase labor costs.
Smart Home Integration
Basic systems work independently. Integration with existing smart home platforms requires additional components and programming time, typically adding $200-$500 depending on complexity.
Typical Investment Ranges
While every project is custom, here are general ranges for common patio screen projects:
- Single screen (8-12 feet wide): $1,500 – $3,500
- Two-screen system: $3,000 – $6,000
- Three-screen enclosure: $5,000 – $9,000
- Full four-screen enclosure: $7,000 – $12,000
These ranges include quality materials, professional installation, and basic motorization. Smart home integration, premium mesh, and wind sensors add to the base cost.
Is the Investment Worth It?
Motorized patio screens deliver value in multiple ways:
Immediate Quality of Life Improvement
From day one, you’ll enjoy bug-free outdoor living, protection from heat and sun, and extended usable time on your patio. Many homeowners report using their outdoor space 3-4 times more frequently after screen installation.
Long-Term Cost Savings
Reduced cooling costs (5-15% savings on summer energy bills), extended furniture life (UV protection prevents fading and deterioration), and elimination of chemical pest control create ongoing financial benefits.
Home Value Increase
Professional motorized screens typically return 60-80% of investment in increased home value, with the added benefit of years of personal enjoyment. Homes with upgraded outdoor living spaces sell faster and for higher prices.
Health & Wellness Benefits
Protection from disease-carrying mosquitoes, elimination of chemical exposure, and increased outdoor time contribute to better health—benefits that are difficult to quantify financially but extremely valuable.
Expanded Entertainment Options
The ability to host comfortable outdoor gatherings throughout the season creates social value and reduces the need for expensive indoor entertaining renovations.
Free Consultation & Transparent Quotes
The best way to understand the investment for your specific patio is to schedule a free in-home consultation. Brent will assess your space, discuss your goals and budget, and provide a detailed written quote with clear explanations of all costs—no hidden fees, no pressure to buy, just honest information to help you make the right decision.
Our Quality Guarantee
At Shade Haven STL, we stand behind every installation with our commitment to precision, quality, and customer satisfaction. Your motorized patio screens will be:
- Custom-designed specifically for your patio structure and needs
- Precisely measured using laser tools for perfect fit and operation
- Professionally installed by our experienced in-house team
- Thoroughly tested to ensure flawless operation before we leave
- Backed by comprehensive warranties on materials, motors, and installation
- Supported long-term with responsive service and maintenance
If you’re not completely satisfied with any aspect of your installation, we’ll make it right. Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities, and our local reputation depends on your complete happiness with your motorized patio screens.
Ready to Transform Your Outdoor Living Space?
Stop letting mosquitoes, heat, and sun glare keep you from enjoying your patio investment. Motorized patio screens from Shade Haven STL give you complete control over your outdoor comfort—creating bug-free, temperature-controlled, protected outdoor living spaces you’ll use throughout the season.
Schedule your free, no-obligation in-home consultation today.
Brent Cunningham will visit your home, assess your patio, demonstrate screen options, answer all your questions, and provide a transparent quote for a custom motorized patio screen system designed specifically for your outdoor space.
Call (636) 577-9974 or email [email protected] to get started.
Proudly serving homeowners throughout the St. Louis metro area, including O’Fallon, Lake Saint Louis, Dardenne Prairie, Cottleville, Saint Peters, Saint Charles, Wentzville, Weldon Spring, Wildwood, and surrounding communities within our 15-mile service radius.