Screen doors provide a great buffer between you and the elements on warm summer nights, allowing you to feel the breeze without intrusion by bugs. However, these features are delicate and can be susceptible to damage from the likes of wobbling toddlers and scratching cats. Here are three ways to keep your screen doors protected and intact.

Screen door guards, or grills, are attached to predrilled screw holes mounted on the outside of your screen. It creates another barrier between you and the door. Made out of steel, it provides the same airflow as a screen door but with stronger material to keep the screen from ripping and tearing.

If you have cats, keep their claws trimmed. Cats can get caught on the screen, and by keeping their nails as short as possible, you can automatically lower the chance that they rip a large hole in it. Besides trimming, consider providing a scratching alternative for your cat. A scratching post or nearby rug will distract them, leaving your screen door intact and your cat entertained.