Your outdoor festivities have begun! Time to bring out the grill and enjoy the cool breeze. Enjoying nature is a beautiful scene, but can sometimes be a hassle because of all of the bugs. What’s our solution? A backyard screen house!
When you want to create a stress-free outdoor environment, a screen house is the best way to go. Our top choice is the Quick Set 9281 Escape Shelter Pop-up Tent, 12 x 12, Green. It’s reliable, has a function design, and very sturdy against challenging weather elements.
But are there any other screen enclosures that can get the job done? We’ve done some research, and narrowed it down to the 13 best backyard screen houses.
13 Backyard Screen House Reviews
1. Quick Set 9281 Escape Shelter Pop-up Tent, 12 x 12, Green
Our top choice is the premium Escape Shelter Pop-Up Tent, and for good reason. Let’s start with the fact that it includes six deluxe tent stakes, tie down ropes, an oversized carry bag, and a pack size of 72 inches x 8 inches x 8 inches. No need for extra materials!
One of the best features is that it for its size, it requires no actual assembly; the screen house is ready to use right out of the box, and only takes 45 seconds to fully construct! It’s made of 210 denier poly-oxford fabric with 600 denier in middle section of the roof, and 50+ UV guard protection.
Pros:
- 4 out of 5 star rating
- Wind panel included for extra protection against rain and heavy winds
- Highly durable poles and stakes to secure the house
- Very easy setup and maintenance
Cons:
- No rain flaps (must be ordered separately).
2. Coleman Screened Canopy Tent with Instant Setup | Back Home Screenhouse Sets Up in 60 Seconds
Our runner up is the Coleman Screened Canopy Tent. It’s efficiently priced for your family to save up and purchase for your next camping trip. It has a simple and functional design of full-circumference screens, with a brown splash for camouflage and added natural security.
At 12 x 10 feet and 45 pounds, your round table of 8 to 10 friends will fit inside of it; and due to its size, an easy-pull wheeled bag is included, and is compact enough to fit in your car. Did I mention that it only requires 3 steps and 3 minutes to set up? Amazing!
Pros
- Huge size for multiple people
- 4 out of 5 star rating
- Includes the Coleman Tent Kit for easy maintenance
Cons
- First set up may take longer than 3 minutes
- Meant for short-term use only; the thread may begin to weaken and rip when exposed to too much UV rays.
- Legal disclaimer: may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
3. Gazelle Tents 21500 G6 Pop-Up Portable 6-Sided Hub Gazebo/Screen Tent, Easy Instant Set Up
With a 4.5 out of 5 stars rating, and a premium price, the G6 Pop-up Gazebo Screen House will give you a great bang for your buck. It measures at 86 inches high and 124 inches hub-to-hub, for 92 square feet for usable space.
The roof panel on the portable gazebos also features a UV 50+ rating to help shade you from harmful sun rays. It’s also sealed adequately to repel water, which means keeping you warm and dry during light rain showers.
Pros
- Takes on average 45 seconds to completely set up for experienced outdoorsman.
- Multiple tie downs and stakes are a huge benefit.
- Does a great job at reflecting bugs and insects.
Cons
- Winds over 10 miles per hour may negatively affect the integrity of the structure.
- You may have a small issues with manufacturer’s layout for proper setup.
- Set up may take longer than a couple of minutes if this is your first time handling a pop-up gazebo.
4. CORE Instant Screen House Canopy Tent
The CORE Instant Screen House Canopy Tent has a 12 feet x 10 feet floor size with a center height of 84 inches. The canopy tent has front and back door mesh panels with efficient-style zippers along with mesh walls, which provide insect protection and 360 views.
Durability is fully established with heavy-duty 150D polyester canopy top and strong steel frames with 50+ UV protection canopy top for added protection against the sun. It’s adequate against light winds, and has an easy setup and breakdown process.
Want another great feature? The poles come pre-attached to the screen; so simply unpack it, unfold it, and lift the legs of the tent into position, and extend legs until they click into place. Done and done!
Pros
- Affordable
- Comes with a 1 year warranty.
- Fits about 6 people comfortably and a picnic table.
Cons
- One layer of polyester material which provides minimal-to-standard protection.
- Small bugs (like gnats) are still able to get through the mesh walls.
- Meant for short-term, low-frequency use only.
- Does not have a floor base.
5. Wenzel Smartshade Screen House
Spacious, minimal, and efficient. The Wenzel Smartshade Screen House is a portable and temporary shade tent that can be set up in a few minutes.
It stands at a height of 112 inches, stretches 10 feet across, and is 10 feet long; it also only weighs 37 pounds and comes with an included duffle bag for easy hauling. Its basic style will do well during the summer or fall because it can withstand average winds. How?
The Smartshade house also comes with removable screens! So if it gets too stuffy inside, simply pull them back for extra amounts of fresh air.
Pros
- Includes a removable corner mesh storage loft.
- Sturdy steel frames with powder coating for reinforced durability.
- User-friendly release button allows for easy height adjustment.
- Can last for years.
- Two zippered openings on each side.
Cons
- May stain easily.
- Roof color may fade or change due to excessive sun exposure.
- White polyester may refract more light, and provide little shade inside of the tent.
6. Coleman Instant Screenhouse
One of the most affordable screen houses on the list, the Coleman Instant Screenhouse is a sizable 15 feet high x 13 feet wide enclosure. It’s “instant” because the house can be set up in minutes. No worries, it comes with a carry bag for simple transportation and storage.
Oh! It also has 2 screen doors in the front and back of the tent for easy entrance and exit.
The Coleman Instant Screenhouse can also be used without stakes; of course it will be a couple of feet shorter, however it’s very possible. It has an easy set up, and taking it down is just as easy. The Instant house also does a wonderful job at providing some shade, as well as fending off bees and other insects.
Pros
- Affordable
- Great height and very spacious
- Easy to assemble
- Sun protection
- Sturdy and durable
Cons
- It doesn’t have side flaps to protect from heavy rain
- Not made to withstand harsh weather conditions.
- May contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
7. Alvantor Screen House Room Camping Tent Outdoor Canopy Dining Gazebo
The Alvantor Breezy Hexagonal Screen House is 10 feet high x 10 feet wide x 7 feet long, which provides a spacious interior shelter that comfortably fits 6 to 8 adults. It comes with 6 mesh tent walls panels, which will supply you with 360-degree ventilation, and an excellent view of the outdoors.
The fiberglass ribs make it easily accessible, and even has 6 elongated sandbags included to be used as weight for the tent to withstand strong wind. Its specialized folding technique makes the gazebo easy to fold down and store in the compact 38 inches x 3.5 inch duffle bag.
Pros
- Amazing hexagon design
- 4 out of 5 stars
- Economically affordable
- 360 outdoor view
- Excellent ventilation
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Flimsy screen walls
8. Eureka Northern Breeze Aluminum Frame Screen House
The coolest part about the premium Northern Breeze Screen House is that it has built-in wind and rain curtains on all four sides, that can also be used as an extension of shade when extra space is needed! It measures at 12 feet long x 12 feet wide and 8 feet, 5 inches tall at its peak.
Another great feature is that its two large screen doors zip completely, from side-to-side! Plus, storage shelves are included for safe keeping of your personal belongings.
Let’s not forget about the bugs! The Northern Breeze Aluminum House is developed with 50D polyester no-see-um mesh walls; thus, you’ll be able to enjoy the breeze from the outside, without the annoyance of those pesky ants, gnats, flies and bees.
Pros
- Very spacious.
- Extra shade outside of the tent.
- Can fit one picnic table
- Weather relief
- Very waterproof
Cons
- Big and bulky
- Takes 2 people to set up
9. Quest 12 Ft. x 12 Ft. Recreational Mesh Screen House Canopy Tent
If you’re looking for a reasonably priced house tent, the Recreational Mesh Canopy Tent could be your best bet. Standing at 12 feet high, and as wide as 12 feet, it will definitely provide you with the space that you desire, as well as the protection that you need from outside vermen.
Did I mention the shock-cord poles makes the set up fast and efficient? The sturdy, yet flexible poles add stability and structure to the overall tent. In addition, the included 450mm polyester carrying bag is durable, and comes with two straps, which makes transport convenient.
Pros
- Fairly priced.
- Lightweight
- Packs small without taking up space.
- Spacious for up to 6 people.
- Sturdy fiberglass poles.
Cons
- Not recommended for high winds or severe weather.
- Flimsy material.
- Lacks protection sunlight, rain, and insects.
10. Wenzel Magnetic Screen House
The black Wenzel Magnetic Screen House is one of my favorite options; it’s simple and effective, with a functional design, and fairly priced. It’s truly “magnetic” because of the magnetic strips line on the “I” style doors for automatic closure and hands-free entry/exit.
Because of its size, it may require two people to set it up properly, with ease.
What’s included? Well, there’s a Stuff Sack- or storage bag – the Screen House itself, along with steel and fiberglass Poles to create and finish the structure. Get ready, because the Wenzel Magnetic Screen House has a 10 year warranty. Now, that’s what I call reliable!
Pros
- 10 year warranty
- Magnetic doors
- Protective against bugs and insects
- Provides shade from the sun
- Lightweight
Cons
- The floor is made of polyethylene
- This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
11. Formosa Covers Sun-Mart Deluxe Screen House
If you plan on throwing a party, or having a slamming get-together, then the green Formosa Covers Sun-Mart Deluxe Screen House could be the choice for you. “Deluxe” is the key word here; it weighs about 65 pounds, and stands at a grand height of 15 feet, and a length of 12 feet!
The fabric is water-repellent treated, so need to worry about being soaked if it there is light rain. It also has 6 zippered doors that surround the screen house, and provide easy access and exit. The Screen house comes in a carton about 32 inches x 12 inches x 9 inches, making it simple to travel with in your car.
Pros
- Spacious for parties, weddings, or barbeques
- Moderately priced
- Can fit 2 picnic tables
Cons
- Is not water-resistant nor waterproof
- Doesn’t hold up well in various forms or rain or harsh weather.
- Is not a permanent structure
13. Tailgaterz Magnetic Screen House
Magnetic screen houses can be a great investment, and the Tailgaterz Magnetic Screen House could serve you well at your next backyard event or tailgate! It spacious enough to fit 6 to 8 people efficiently since it operates at a perimeter of 11 feet x 9 feet.
It’s conventionally designed large mesh walls do fairly well at keeping the insects out, and the breeze flowing in; while providing ample shade and protection from the sun and its harmful UV rays. Choose another person to help you set it up, and you’ll be maxing and relaxing in no time.
Pros
- Great for keeping out bugs.
- Magnetic doors are effective for adults, children, and even pets.
- Easy set up.
- Portable for easy travel and transition.
- Better fit for long events due to the set up time.
Cons
- Magnets tend to lose power over multiple uses.
- Not stable without all legs properly installed and placed.
- Extended set up time.
13. Wenzel Sun Valley Screen House
The Wenzel Sun Valley screenhouse is a full size 12 feet x 12 feet enclosure that is designed with straight walls. The no-see-um (or no bugs) mesh walls does its job well with repelling bugs outside where they are supposed to be. Setup is adequate with the shock-corded fiberglass poles.
There are 2 zippered doors attached to one side of the screen house. It’s design of straight walls and the rounded ceiling creates an ambiance of being at home, while still admiring all that nature has to offer. In addition, its Weather Armor Polyester roof provides strength and durability to the full structure.
Because the fabric is made from polyester, its protective, and resistant to sagging in wet weather, and fire-retardant; its UV properties and protection are substantial and reliable as well. Thankfully, Guylines come pre-attached for a simple pole-to-body connection, and the sacks and stakes are included.
Pros
- Can fit one picnic table inside of it.
- Performs well in rainy environments.
- Spacious; fits up to 6 people comfortably.
- Auxiliary side flaps are available for post-attachment.
Cons
- No protection from wind or rain on the sides.
- Best used during fair weather.
- Fabric may fade or even weaken over multiple uses.
Things To Consider Before Buying a Screen House
Size
The size of the backyard screen house is the single determinant for how many people can comfortably fit inside. A screen house for your backyard can come in many shapes and sizes to accommodate space and protection for your entire family.
Ceiling Height
Backyard screen houses tend to come in different, yet typical heights. For a family of 3 -5 people, great height options for optimal head space are 6.6 feet, 8 feet, 8.2 feet, or 10 feet. If your family is larger, go for the taller choices like 11 feet, or even as big as 12 feet!
Space
For a more cozy scene, we chose houses that can supply at least 6 feet, 8 feet, or 10 feet of space. Maybe you have a lot of cousins, and that’s O.K.! There are also the 11 and 12 feet tents options that will satisfy your spacious craving.
Materials
You want to make sure that your new screen house is set up properly for guaranteed sturdiness and stability, and there are significant pieces that are necessary to complete this task.
Traditional material can include wood stubs, aluminum, or vinyl if a contractor is setting it up. In store-bought cases, your standard screen house will usually have durable steel frames that can be adjusted to create the height that you desire.
Functionality
What would you like your screen house to do while you’re inside of it? Protect you from the sun and bugs; and our chosen backyard screen house selections serve that purpose well!
The screen walls are usually made of vinyl or polyester material, which does an excellent job at repelling liquids and foods. This feature also makes cleaning the screening quick and easy.
Vinyl or polyester screen walls have extremely tiny holes in them, which allows for cool air to flow in, but small enough to keep bugs and insects from passing through.
Waterproof
This is an important factor to consider, isn’t it? For the most effective results, we chose screen tents that have microscopic pores in the material that won’t allow for water to pass through it, that’s the key.
These pores become saturated with the smallest amount of moisture, which creates a “wall” of added protection.
Our selections are made of industrial-style polyester or vinyl material, which is an outstanding source for making them super water-resistant, to just about a full-on waterproof.
Setup
Of course our choices are easy to set up; why? Because of the manual that comes with it! But more specifically, its portability creates fast transportation, and provisions are in place for the screen house to be secure and stable.
Structuring your new backyard screen house can be completed quickly with the adjustable steel frames that may be included in the set. They are usually reinforced with a steel powder for added protection from scratches and dents.
Maintenance
No worries, this is a simple formality that should be done before or after every use of the screen house. Typically, a quick rinse with water from a garden hose can do the trick. If you ended up with BBQ, or any other food stain, apply a soap and water solution for a superb finish.
Keeping track of each piece that’s included in the set is an important, seldom mentioned factor. Once you are finished using your screen home, always deconstruct it in the recommended manner, and place the pieces back inside of the utility case for easy access next time you need it.
What’s The Difference Between A Screen House And A Tent?
A screen house is designed with screens from top to bottom, and all around the structure, for enhanced air circulation and a wide open view of the outside. Screen house also have much bigger dimensions for optimal space and productivity, and can fit multiple people at one time.
A tent is a smaller version, and does not have the same features. Tents tend to have one screen, and is completely covered with water-resistant material, without the view. In addition, tents offer less stability, strength and structure than a screen house.
How Long Can I Expect My Screen Tent To Last?
Your screen home will come with a 1 or 2 years manufacturer warranty.
Your screen house will last a long time with the proper care and maintenance of the materials. For the extension for longevity, follow the manufacturer recommendations to receive the full advantages of the warranty.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it! The 13 best backyard screen houses right at your fingertips. Does our pick of the Quick Set 9281 Escape Shelter Pop-up Tent match up to yours? Since the Escape Shelter is a pop-up, it takes no time to set it up, unlike the G6 Pop-Up Gazebo Screen House.
So for your next backyard adventure, make sure you choose the screen house that is highly durable, can withstand random weather patterns, and contains all the materials necessary for proper installation; and with proper maintenance, your screen home should serve you very well.
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Mike Zhang. Founder of FamilyLifeShare