A custom home theater gives you a cinema-like experience from the comfort of your own living room. A large component of that experience is the type of projector screen you choose. A screen ensures a crisp, clear image, and this is something you won't get from projecting onto a wall or piece of fabric. Below, learn more about choosing a screen for your custom home theater.

Frames

There are two main types of frames for projector screens. A fixed-frame screen is comprised of a material stretched over a metal framework. As the name implies, this kind of screen does not move. It is mounted directly onto a dedicated wall space. Fixed-frame screens provide a smooth, taut surface upon which you can project a dependably sharp image.

A retractable screen rolls up into a metal case that is fastened to the wall or ceiling. This is an ideal setup for a room that doesn't have the wall space to dedicate to a fixed screen. Retractable screens come in manual or motorized varieties, making rolling up the screen as easy as gently tugging on a handle or pressing a button. A retractable screen hangs more freely than a fixed-frame screen.

Materials

When choosing material for the screen, first consider the gain. Screen gain is the amount of light reflected back at viewers. A higher gain results in a brighter picture. Screens are available in a variety of coatings that achieve different levels of gain, so consider how much light the room naturally has and how bright you want and need your picture to be.

Next, you'll want to select a color for the screen. White screens are always a safe bet because they offer the most neutral surface for a clear image. Grey screens reflect less light, making them better suited to rooms with large amounts of ambient light.

It is important not to forget about the texture. If your goal is a custom home theater with a 4K screen, the material will need to have a fine, grit-like texture to properly display detail and depth.

If you need professional design services for a custom home theater, trust Premiere Home Theater. They will help you find the perfect screen for your goals and budget. Serving Charlotte and Mecklenburg, NC, they offer a full range of home theater projectors, screens, and accessories, as well as smart home, surround sound, and TV installation services. Call (704) 449-9448 or visit their website to request a quote.