This is one of those times where there isn't a right or wrong answer, but you might consider these things.... 1. Convenience. Is it a simple thing to remove and store the screens? The least expensive fix, but also the most work. 2. Replace them with half screens, as eteinne mentioned, but that's an expensive fix. Half screens allow the natural light in on the upper half of the double-hung windows and you still have the protection of the screens on the bottom. Our home had half screens on it when it was built and the second year we lived here we had them replaced with full screens. The setting sun (most of our windows are on the west side of our home) is brutal in the summer and we needed the extra protection provided by full screens, but also made them UV filtering screens, which are very dark. 3. This is my personal favorite... Leave the screens, which is an economical and convenient fix - as well as providing an additional layer of protection - and add full spectrum lights/lamps to the rooms you think you'd like more natural light. Full spectrum lights are used to treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD) through the use of "light boxes" that mimic natural sunlight, especially beneficial for those living up north. -Grainlady Here is a link that might be useful: Verilux Full Sprectum Light

I am planning on putting the tv on the long wall so that wouldn't work. I thought I'd put a chaise on against the screened porch wall so I can have some extra seating (plus, it would be a nice spot to read) because it's not a big house (only 1450 sf). The problem with big doors is it kills that entire wall since that space would only be used to walk around/through it. Thank you all for your suggestions.

Another quarantine project -I actually just had new screens made at our local hardware store. Ours were thirty years old, some frames were a bit bent, some screening was torn, etc. They were a bargain and look amazing now! IdaClaire, I don't think you need a special tool. This took us a while to learn, but now we are fast at removing our screens. Heres's what you do: Using the two tabs along the bottom edge of the screen, pull STRAIGHT up vertically. Visualize sliding the top edge of the screen into the recess of the frame above it. There are small springs in the top edge of the screen frame that keep them wedged into the frame, and when you lift straight up, those springs compress and you gain a half-inch or so of space at the bottom of the screen. Then lift the bottom edge of the screen out and over the tiny metal lip that holds the screen in. Now you can angle the bottom out and slide the screen down and out. Hope that helps.

I currently have a casement window in my shower, and yes, it has a screen, and we do use it to vent after a shower. It is a vinyl casement and we trimmed it out (inside and out) with exterior composite trim material. My husband is a building contractor, and always mindful of issues. We towel down the trim EVERYTIME we shower, not so much for water rot worries, but for soap scum and water stains. Soap residue will show on any surface, whether or not the water air dries. It's great to have natural light in the shower, not to mention fresh air. Enjoy your shower window.