3 reasons to keep your manual projection screen rolled in when not in use
A manual projection screen is cheaper than a fixed frame screen. So a lot of people
go for a manual version first, before splashing out on something else.
Often, the screen ends up rolled out all the time. Just because it is less work. And
because with manual screens that do not have a speed-controlled rolling mechanism, it
can be a hassle to roll the screen in anyway.
But is it better to have the screen rolled in all the time? Or is it fine to leave the screen
open when not in use?
Well, there are 3 situations where it is better to keep your projector screen rolled in when
you are not using it:
1. When someone smokes in the room
When you have someone who smokes in your household, it is better to have your screen rolled in when
your not watching a movie. Smoking causes the screen fabric to become yellow. It is
a gradual process, so it will not happen overnight.
Keeping the screen fabric rolled up in the housing will definitely slow down the process though. It ensures your screen
stays crisp for a much longer period of time.
2. When the projection screen is exposed to direct sunlight
Over time, direct exposure to sunlight will turn your projection screen slightly yellow. The fabric reacts in a similar way to paper.
So when your projection screen is facing a window which has a lot of sunlight coming through, it is better to keep
the screen rolled in.
Again, this is a gradual process, but it is better to keep the screen safe. A discolored fabric changes
how you see the colors on your screen. The result: images that are not true to the original movie.
3. When your screen is at risk of being damaged
Kids can be great fun and so can pets. A dangling screen is a lot of fun for them at the same time.
So if kids or pets play in the room when the screen is not in use, keep it rolled in.
It is a lot safer for your screen.
If none of these situations apply to you, it is perfectly fine to keep the screen always rolled out.
It's less work and will not affect the quality of the projection screen fabric. So sometimes, it is OK to be lazy...
Otto
