Most homeowners view their patio as a seasonal luxury. It’s the perfect spot for a barbecue in the mild spring months or a place to sit during a cool autumn evening. But when the extreme temperatures hit—whether it’s the scorching summer sun or the biting winter chill—that valuable square footage often sits empty, collecting dust until the weather turns favorable again.
We believe your outdoor space should be a sanctuary you can enjoy 365 days a year.
At Blue Sky Patio Shades, we frequently discuss the benefits of our MagnaTrack® motorized patio shades. While they are famous for blocking the intense summer heat, their versatility extends far beyond solar protection. A recent message from one of our delighted customers perfectly illustrates how a high-quality motorized screen can transform a cold, unusable porch into a warm, inviting outdoor living room.
A Sunrise to Remember: The 38-Degree Test
We installed a MagnaTrack® motorized patio screen for a local homeowner last October. Like many, they were looking for a way to upgrade their home and get more use out of their patio. However, the true test of the product didn’t come during a heatwave, but during a cold snap.
We received a note from the homeowner that stopped us in our tracks. They wanted to share an experience they had over a particularly freezing weekend where temperatures dropped to a low of 38 degrees.
Usually, 38 degrees is a signal to retreat indoors, lock the windows, and stay under a blanket. But this customer had a different plan.
Here is what they had to say:
“Brad/Garrett, I had to send a short note of thanks. Our Blue Sky Patio Shade is absolutely fantastic. Over the weekend temps reached a low of 38 degrees. But, that did not stop Asher, our mini golden retriever, and I from watching the sunrise from our screened porch. We turned on the fireplace and within minutes our space was toasty and ready for us to enjoy the sunrise. Thank you again for an amazing addition to our home!”
This testimony highlights the “pinnacle of luxury” we strive to provide. With the screen lowered and a fireplace running, the patio retained heat effectively enough to make a near-freezing morning comfortable for both the homeowner and their dog, Asher.
How MagnaTrack® Screens Create a Thermal Barrier
You might be wondering how a screen can make such a dramatic difference in temperature. The secret lies in the superior engineering of the MagnaTrack® system.
Unlike standard drop shades that flap in the wind or leave large gaps at the sides, MagnaTrack® utilizes patented self-tensioning magnets. These magnets lock the screen material deep into the track housing. This creates a tight, secure seal that does two things:
- It blocks wind: Cold wind chill is often the biggest factor in making outdoor spaces uninhabitable. By stopping the airflow, the screen eliminates the biting breeze.
- It retains ambient heat: When you introduce a heat source—like the fireplace mentioned by our customer, or a portable propane heater—the screen helps contain that warmth within the patio area rather than letting it dissipate immediately into the yard.
This combination turns your patio into a semi-conditioned space. It bridges the gap between the indoors and outdoors, giving you an “outdoor living room” that feels protected and cozy, regardless of the thermometer reading.
Beyond Winter: The All-Season Advantage
While the ability to enjoy a sunrise in 38-degree weather is impressive, the MagnaTrack® system is designed to be the ultimate defender against all elements. Here is how this top-of-the-line technology enhances your home during the rest of the year.
The Summer Shield
In Arizona, the sun is relentless. Unprotected patios can become dangerously hot, radiating heat into your home and driving up air conditioning costs. Our screens block a significant percentage of UV rays and solar heat gain. This keeps your patio cooler and protects your expensive outdoor furniture from fading and sun rot.
The Insect Barrier
There is nothing that ruins a dinner party faster than mosquitoes or flies. Because the MagnaTrack® system uses a magnetic seal, there are no gaps for pests to sneak through. You can enjoy dinner al fresco without the need for citronella candles or bug spray.
Privacy and Ambience
Our screens allow you to see out while making it difficult for others to see in. This provides a sense of seclusion and privacy, turning your patio into a true retreat where you can relax without feeling like you are on display to the neighborhood.
Why Quality Matters: The Blue Sky Difference
In every industry, there is an innovator that designs and builds a superior product. When it comes to sun shades and patio screens that protect from the sun, wind, rain, and insects, there is no better screen option than the MagnaTrack® motorized patio screen.
However, a great product requires great installation. The Blue Sky Team is led by Garrett Peters and Brad Leech. Brad has been in the industry for over a decade and is personally responsible for hundreds, perhaps thousands, of MagnaTrack® shades installed throughout the Phoenix valley.
We understand that installing these screens is an investment in your home. That is why we are dedicated to precision installation. We ensure the housing blends seamlessly with your architecture and that the motor limits are set perfectly for smooth operation.
Extending Your Home’s Footprint
Think about the cost per square foot of your home. Now, consider how many square feet your patio occupies. If you can only use that space four or five months out of the year, you are losing value.
By installing a motorized screen, you are effectively adding a new room to your house. It becomes a space for:
- Morning coffee with the pets (just like Asher!)
- Remote work in a fresh environment
- Evening entertainment without the worry of bugs or chill
- Safe play areas for children, protected from the harsh sun
It is the most cost-effective way to “add on” to your home without the chaos and expense of a full construction remodel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can MagnaTrack® screens really handle high winds?
Yes. This is one of the main differentiators of our product. The patented magnetic technology allows the screen to “give” during strong wind gusts and then self-correct and re-tension once the wind dies down. It is far more durable than zipper-based systems that can jam or tear under pressure. (Check Out Brads Golf Ball Test Drive)
Will the screen block my view?
Not at all. We offer a variety of fabric densities. Most of our clients choose fabrics that provide excellent heat and bug protection while maintaining clear visibility of their yard, pool, or view.
How do I control the screens?
Convenience is key. Our motorized screens can be operated via a handheld remote, a wall switch, or even a smartphone app. You can transform your space from open-air to enclosed in seconds with the touch of a button.
Elevate Your Outdoor Experience Today
The story of Asher and the sunrise is just one example of how Blue Sky Patio Shades can change the way you live. You don’t have to wait for summer to get value out of your patio. You can start enjoying that extra square footage right now.
Whether you want to create a warm winter nook or prepare for the summer heat, there is no wrong time to upgrade your home.
Ready to transform your patio?
Call us at 602.456.9444 or request an onsite consultation online today. Let us help you create the outdoor living room of your dreams.
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