Midwest Screens - A Phantom Screen Disbtributor

Retractable: why does that matter?

2014-02-24T11:50:00.001-08:00

Have you ever wondered what's special about Phantom Retractable Screens? Let this helpful, two minute video introduce you to what makes our product unique.

Phantom Screens wins top Houzz.com Award!

2014-02-14T11:55:00.000-08:00

Phantom Screens has won 'Best of Houzz 2014 award

We're very excited to let you know that Phantom Screens has won a 'Best of Houzz 2014' award.

Phantom Screens won in the Design category, as their portfolio includes some of the most popular images on Houzz in 2013. Phantom Screens was chosen by the more than 16 million monthly users that comprise the Houzz community.

The Best Of Houzz award is given in two categories: Customer Satisfaction and Design. Customer Satisfaction honors are determined by a variety of factors, including the number and quality of client reviews a professional received in 2013. Design award winners’ work was the most popular among the more than 16 million monthly users on Houzz, known as “Houzzers,” who saved more than 230 million professional images of home interiors and exteriors to their personal ideabooks via the Houzz website, smartphone and tablet apps.

If you've not discovered Houzz.com yet, or taken a look at our projects and ideabooks, you can check them out here and here.

Experience the Perfect Summer: $10,000 Backyard Makeover Sweepstakes

2014-02-05T09:33:00.000-08:00

You can’t beat the joy of summer. The sunshine, the scenery, the cloud-studded sky. And now you can enjoy it even more.

Homeowners across North America are choosing retractable screens by Phantom® to enjoy natural ventilation, shade from the sun, and protection from insects.

Custom-made and professionally installed. Phantom Screens provides retractable screens for doors, windows and large openings.

If you have been thinking of getting a retractable screen for your home, now is the time to do it! Until May 31, you can enter for your chance to win $10,000 towards transforming your deck or patio into an outdoor space that helps you make the most of summer! Go to phantommakeover.com and enter today!

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to legal residents of the 50 United States (including D.C.) and Canada (excluding the Quebec province), who have the age of majority in their state/province of residence or older at the time of entry. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Promotion ends 5/31/2014. For Official Rules, and complete details, visit www.phantommakeover.com. Sponsor: Phantom Manufacturing (Int'l.) Ltd.

Happy Holidays from Midwest Screens

2013-12-23T10:21:00.001-08:00

During the Holiday Season more than ever, our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have used our business to provide their home with Phantom Screens. And in this spirit we say, simply but sincerely, thank you and best wishes for the Holiday Season and a Happy New Year.

Midwest Screens receives two awards at the Phantom Screens Annual Distributor Conference

2013-11-20T10:02:00.000-08:00

Cory Quaintance of Midwest Screens
& Derek Melnychuk of Screens of Georgia

Midwest Screens was honored to receive two awards at the Phantom Screens Annual Distributor Conference last week in Las Vegas. Both awards reflect our commitment to provide our customers with high quality products and service for their homes and condos. Cory Quaintance, president of Midwest Screens, accepted the following awards on behalf of the company:

Awards proudly displayed
in the Midwest Screens office

The 2012-2013 Outstanding Project Award was received for our partnership with Hubbard Place, providing Phantom Screens for River North Neighborhood's newest luxury rental residences.
The 2012 Achievement Award was received for our commitment to provide Serene Retractable Window Screens for homeowners throughout the Chicagoland area.

We look forward to continue to provide the highest standard in products and service these awards deserve.

Should I think about installing Phantom Screens in the Autumn and Winter?

2013-09-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the first day of Autumn. While some are excited, thinking about warm drinks, sweaters, leaves changing, and apple picking; others are dreading the coming of snow, thinking about shoveling and winter traffic. Either way, most are not thinking about screens for their homes.

Yet the Autumn and Winter months are the perfect time to think about how Phantom Retractable Screens can provide you with the screening solutions you need for your doors, windows, and outdoor living areas. Let us help you plan and implement your screening needs now so that when Spring rolls back around you'll be ready to enjoy the warmth without a moment's delay.

Can I use Phantom Retractable Screens for my business or office?

2013-09-06T11:17:00.000-07:00

The Executive Screen fits most custom and oversized applications, making it the ideal solution for local business and office use. Depending on the application, it can supply complete ventilation, shade from the sun, protection from pests, and enhanced privacy, all this is at the touch of a button. Contact us for more information on how Phantom Screens can enhance your business or office space.

Back to school in summer weather

2013-08-27T12:19:00.002-07:00

Chicagoland may be headed back to school, but the weather still thinks its summer. September and October are the perfect months to install Phantom Screens on your home's doors and windows. Who doesn't want to open up their home to the last warm days and enjoy the first days of cool breezes and crisp air? When the weather turns cold, retract your screens into their protective housing where they'll stay safe and ready to use on the anticipated first warm day of spring.

Can I use Phantom Screens on my RV or Boat?

2013-08-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

What would Chicago and the surrounding suburbs be without Lake Michigan and the thousands of lakes that cover the landscape from the southern suburbs up to Lake Geneva? Chicagoans love to take their boats out on the water whenever possible. And when they aren't boating, they're probably enjoying their RV next to the closest lake available.

Phantom Screens are a perfect way to bring your enjoyment of your RV or boat to the next level.

RVs & Boats: Doorways

If a doorway is wide enough and the rails are able to attach to the top and bottom, a Phantom Screen can be the perfect addition to a yacht, motor home, or trailer. It is there when you need it, and retracts out of sight when you don't.

RVs & Boats: Windows

Some windows in luxury boats and trailers may be the perfect fit for a Serene Screen. Designed to supply smooth operation and seamless style, the Serene window screen is a perfect complement to a window with a nice view.

For more information on how Phantom Screens can be used on your boat or RV, contact Midwest Screens.

Patio Design Tips from Better Homes and Gardens

2013-08-13T09:13:00.000-07:00

At Midwest Screens we love outdoor living spaces. For example, patios help make a house a home with the comfort, style, and character they bring. Better Homes and Gardens has a list of creative ways to make your patio cozy and unique. Check out their design tips then let us know which is your favorite!

15 Patio Design Tips from BH&G

When is the best time to install Phantom Screens?

2013-08-08T10:28:00.000-07:00

Homeowners often want to know what we consider to be the best time of year for installing Phantom Retractable Screens on their home. The answer is simple; any time of year is a good time! Whether you choose to install Phantom Screens in the Spring for the warm months ahead, Autumn for the crisp October breezes, or the Winter in preparation for that first bright, April day, any time is a good time for Phantom Screens.

How do I maintain my Phantom Screens?

2013-08-06T08:31:00.000-07:00

Proper maintenance of your Phantom Screens will ensure you are able to enjoy your screens and the fresh air insect and hassle free for years. To learn how easy it is to maintain your screens (clean, wipe, lubricate), watch this short video. Also, step-by-step written maintenance tips are below.

Tips for maintaining your Phantom Screen's functionality:

Screens should be retracted into protective storage housing when not in use.
Spring loaded systems may retract suddenly. Do not push the mesh to release the magnet or latch. A safety feature releases the slide bar if the mesh is lightly bumped. Continual abuse will affect operation. When rolling the screen into the housing, ensure the mesh rolls evenly. Retracting the product with creases in the screen can cause wrinkles.
Motorized screens should be watched during operation. Objects left under a motorized unit can prevent the unit from lowering. If this happens, lift the slide bar up manually, remove the obstacle, and lower the slide bar. If it does not extend to a level position, use the remote up button and roll up the mesh until the slide bar is level. Stop the unit, and then lower it.
Interruption of power can affect motorized unit operation. Ensure that power is still getting to the unit by checking circuit breakers and ground faults for resetting. Remotes (in wall and handheld) have a limited battery life. If the remote light does not come on when the buttons are depressed, the battery is exhausted.
Insect screens are intended to provide reasonable insect control and are not intended to provide the retention and / or security of objects, animals or persons inside or outside your dwelling.
Ensure tracks are kept free of dirt and debris which may cause the screen to perform poorly. Cleaning the tracks and lubricating them with Phantom's greaseless silicone spray can restore smooth operation.
Mesh fabric, housing tracks and slide bar can be cleaned with water and a soft brush but not with a pressure washer. A mild detergent like dish soap can be used, but do not use chemicals. After cleaning the mesh, allow it to dry before rolling it back up into the housing.
It is normal for the mesh to "sail" in certain windy conditions. This may cause the mesh to pull out of the track, however when the wind subsides the mesh will return against the track.
Motorized units should be retracted in winds in excess of 25 mph. Wind load may affect the ability of the unit to extend or retract. The screens should never be used solely for the purpose of a wind break.

How can Phantom Screens benefit your construction project?

2013-08-01T07:32:00.000-07:00

Today’s discriminating homeowners want screen solutions that do not detract from the look of their home yet provide superior protection against pests and insects. Phantom Screens provide that customized solution. MidwestScreens, LLC is the Chicagoland company of choice for homeowners and professionals that want to incorporate Phantom Screens into their designs and construction projects. Our years of experience and dedication to providing the best customer service means we will be there every step of the way in the process.

Phantom Screens are a great amenity that will allow your home or build and design business to stand out from other homes or businesses, providing you with screening solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. As outdoor living continues to grow in the Chicagoland area, Phantom Screens make it functional without detracting from the architecture and beauty of the area that you are screening.

What's in a name?

2013-07-30T11:29:00.000-07:00

Last week millions watched as Prince William and Kate, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, introduced their firstborn son, George, to a waiting world. In a day and age when celebrities choose to name their children everything from Cocoa, Apple, and North, the traditional name George stands out as a one that goes against the grain of the ever-changing fads of fame. In naming their son George, William and Kate chose a name that communicates legacy, tradition, and stability.

What's in a name? A lot actually. Names are more than a calling card. They communicate personality, character, and conviction. This reality should cause us to pause and consider, not only the names of people, but the names of the businesses, companies, and organizations we encounter on a daily basis.

What does the name Phantom Screens communicate? What are the values that undergird the Phantom name and product, and therefore Midwest Screens?

To Speak the Truth

We believe every person has intrinsic worth, potential and value which can be expressed through genuine relationships. Relationships rely on trust and in turn, trust is only created if the truth is spoken, and what needs to be said, is said. This value challenges us to have commitment to truth and to deliver what we promise. It is not an expression of a particular religious belief, or a basis for exclusion. Rather, it is a mandate for inclusion and a constant reminder for us to think and do the right thing in the right way and requires mutual accountability. We strive for a corporate culture wherein all decision-making is surrounded by honesty, integrity and morality.

To Serve our People

We believe that every person - regardless of personal beliefs or differences - has been created in the image and likeness of God. Phantom strives to ensure our corporate culture fosters a spirit of satisfaction, mutual respect and recognition. Phantom believes in not only empowering people, but also enabling them to succeed. By giving people the tools and training to develop, we increase their productivity and earnings, and enhance the dignity, self-respect and worth of each individual. It provides the basis for our belief in servant leadership. Our people's personal lives are important and not to be ignored. We will strive to be a faith friendly company.

To Pursue Excellence

We continually seek better methods of delivering service and believe that every time we touch a customer's life, we should provide added value for that customer. Pursuing excellence means that we must know our customers, understand their needs and expectations, regularly listen to them and adjust our processes and procedures to more effectively serve them.

To Practice Stewardship

We believe stewardship is an attitude of caring past ourselves. Being responsible stewards of the resources entrusted to us to achieve economic success, gives us the ability to positively affect the lives of all of our stakeholders being our people, our customers and our shareholders. We understand our social responsibility to help our surrounding community and world. Since profit is merely the applause for doing the right things in the right way, we have an obligation to give back. This will be not only in financial means but in our time and efforts as well.

Chicagoland real estate market is recovering

2013-07-25T09:25:00.000-07:00

There's good news for Chicagoland homeowners, builders, and designers; foreclosures and short sales are down and home values are on the rise! According to a recent report, produced by Midwest Real Estate Data LLC, in the first six months of 2013, the Chicago-area real estate market finally began to recover effectively.

This is good news for everyone - allowing sellers, buyers, builders, and designers to capitalize on the attractive homes and lifestyle of the Midwest.

For more information on the market's recovery, click here.

Midwest Screens featured on Houzz

2013-07-24T13:05:00.000-07:00

Midwest Screens, LLC is proud to now be featured on Houzz!

"Houzz is the leading online platform for home remodeling and design, providing people with everything they need to improve their homes from start to finish - online or from a mobile device. From decorating a room to building a custom home, Houzz connects millions of homeowners, home design enthusiasts and home improvement professionals across the country and around the world. With the largest residential design database in the world and a vibrant community powered by social tools, Houzz is the easiest way for people to get the design inspiration, project advice, product information and professional reviews they need to help turn ideas into reality."

We are thrilled to be part of a quality, online community that provides exceptional service for professionals, homeowners, and designers. Browse our Houzz page, and then go find everything you need for your home design and remodeling projects.

How do I add value to my home?

2013-07-18T11:11:00.000-07:00

Owning a house is more than owning a place to call home. It's an investment. Every discretionary homeowner wants to see the value of their property increase, bringing with it financial security or potential stability. From new paint to a new roof, adding a sunroom, or remodeling the kitchen, homeowners can increase the value and curb appeal of their home.

One highly effect way of adding value to your house is to have Phantom Screens installed on your doors, windows, and large outdoor living openings. Phantom Screens give your house the comfort and dependability of fixed screens without the unwanted hassle and eye sore fixed screens inevitably bring. Because Phantom Screens blend seamlessly with the frame of your doors and windows, retracting out of sight when not in use, they add to your home's comfort, beauty, and value. With this in mind, you could say Phantom Screens aren't just a valuable commodity, they're a necessity.

For more helpful ideas on how to increase the value of your home, visit HGTV.

Keep cool this summer

2013-07-16T12:40:00.001-07:00

Keeping cool during Midwest summers can be a challenge. Thankfully, there are a number of easy-to-implement, green steps that can help you stay cool as the temperatures rise.

Sustainable Baby Steps has a detailed list of cooling tips for both indoor and outdoor living (we especially liked the awning and screen suggestions). Visit their site to see how you can begin to live greener and cooler, then let us help you implement their tips with Phantom Retractable Screens and Sunesta Awnings!

Chicago suburbs claim 7 of 10 best Illinois towns

2013-07-11T12:15:00.000-07:00

According to a recent article at Nerd Wallet, the Chicago suburbs can boast they hold 7 out of the 10 best towns in Illinois for young families. The findings were based on three questions:

Does the town have good public schools?
Can you afford to live there?
Is the town growing and prospering?

With two towns near St. Louis and one in central Illinois, the Chicago area dominated the rankings, claiming spots #4-10.

This is just one more reason we are proud to serve Chicagoland families, bringing quality service and functionality to their homes.

Is a Sunesta Retractable Awning right for my home?

2013-07-09T11:40:00.002-07:00

Sunesta Retractable awnings enable you to enjoy shade or sun on demand. Extend your awning when you need sun protection and keep it retracted when not in use or during inclement weather. Unlike a fixed-frame awning, retractable awnings require minimal maintenance. You will not need to constantly remove and re-install your awning with the changing seasons.

Sunesta Awnings are more durable, shade larger areas, and are custom designed according to the unique features of your home. While standard umbrellas are very susceptible to strong winds, which can damage them easily, Sunesta Awnings are designed to withstand winds up to 30 mph and can be retracted when the wind is strong.

Visit our website, or call our office at 847.557.5015 to schedule a complimentary in-home estimate.

Midwest Screens provides Sunesta Retractable Awnings

2013-07-02T10:38:00.002-07:00

As our valued customers know, Midwest Screens takes pride in providing the very best in retractable screening solutions for homeowners in the Chicagoland area. Did you also know that Midwest Screens is a leading provider for Sunesta Retractable awnings, bringing shade and relief from the sun to outdoor living areas?

Sunesta Awnings
Patio awnings are Sunesta’s flagship product line and are designed to fit your specific style, budget, and need. Each product offers a variety of fabric colors, styles, frame colors, control options, and accessories to meet your décor and shading requirements.

Sunesta Shelters
Providing sun protection to existing structures, such as sunrooms, pergolas, and skylights, Sunesta Shelters are uniquely designed to provide you with the shade you need when you need it most. Sunesta Shelters are custom made to fit the needs of you and your home.

To better serve our customers, we have created a website dedicated solely to providing discerning homeowners with product information and support for Sunesta Retractable Awnings. Visit the Chicagoland Retractable Awnings website to learn how we can provide you with the shade you need for the home you love.

What Better Homes and Gardens fails to tell you

2013-06-26T14:01:00.001-07:00

Better Homes and Gardens has an excellent article with helpful information for designing or remodeling a screen porch. But they've missed one crucially important piece to the designer puzzle. What kind of screens should the discerning homeowner use? Fixed screens detract from the look and feel of your porch and become a fixed barrier to enjoying the outdoors, the very reason you have an outdoor living area!

Phantom motorized screens are the ideal solution for any porch. Imagine being able to move seamlessly between indoor and outdoor spaces - without the intense glare of the sun or annoying mosquitoes. Phantom motorized screens provide you with the best of both worlds. They are there when you need extra shelter, and when you don't need them they retract out of sight, all with the push of a button.

Call our office to see how Phantom motorized screens can transform your porch, patio, or lanai into a bug-free oasis.