How to Protect Your Motorized Screens During Nebraska Winters
Nebraska winters can be tough, freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and strong winds all take a toll on outdoor features. If your home has motorized exterior screens, a little seasonal care goes a long way in protecting your investment and ensuring everything works smoothly when spring arrives.
At Anderson Exterior Shading, we help homeowners enjoy their patios year-round, and that includes knowing how to properly care for motorized screens during the winter months.
Should Motorized Screens Stay Down or Be Retracted in Winter?
In most cases, motorized screens should be fully retracted when not in use during winter. While high-quality exterior screens are designed to withstand the elements, retracting them helps protect the fabric, motor, and track system from unnecessary stress caused by snow buildup, ice, and high winds.
If you’re using your patio during milder winter days, screens can still be lowered temporarily for wind protection, but they should always be raised again before snow, ice, or freezing rain arrives.
How Cold Temperatures Affect Motorized Screens
Cold weather alone typically does not damage motorized screens. However, problems can occur when moisture freezes within the system. Ice can cause fabric stiffness, track obstruction, and added strain on the motor.
Important tip: Never attempt to operate your screens if ice or snow is present on the fabric or in the tracks. Doing so may cause unnecessary wear or mechanical issues.
Winter Care Tips for Motorized Exterior Screens
Here are a few simple steps to keep your screens in great shape all winter long:
✔ Keep Screens Clean and Dry
Before winter sets in, gently clean your screens to remove dirt, dust, and debris. Let them dry completely before retracting.
✔ Check Tracks and Housing
Clear out leaves or debris from the track system so moisture doesn’t get trapped and freeze.
✔ Avoid Operating Screens in Freezing Conditions
If temperatures are extremely cold or ice is present, leave screens retracted until conditions improve.
✔ Use Screens Strategically
On calm, dry winter days, screens can still provide excellent wind protection — just be mindful of the forecast.
Do Motorized Screens Need to Be Removed for Winter?
In most cases, no removal is necessary. Professionally installed motorized screens are built to handle seasonal changes when used properly. Keeping them retracted during harsh weather is usually all that’s needed.
If you’re unsure about your specific setup or have noticed changes in performance, a professional inspection can provide peace of mind.
Winter Is the Perfect Time to Plan Ahead
Winter is also an ideal time to:
Schedule a system check or tune-up
Plan upgrades before spring demand peaks
Design a patio setup for next season
Addressing maintenance now helps avoid delays and ensures your outdoor space is ready the moment warmer weather arrives.
Need Help with Winter Screen Care?
If you have questions about your motorized screens or want to prepare for the upcoming patio season, Anderson Exterior Shading is here to help. Our team can recommend best practices, inspect your system, and help you get the most out of your outdoor space, no matter the season.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or seasonal check-up.