I still like the screen for a variety of reasons, particularly in warmer months. IPM, humidity, etc are good reasons to use one, though I also notice the screen can let things in that otherwise wouldn't have been there in the first place. Around me #8 screen isn't available. Several online bee stores sell by the foot. I made one using two layers of 1/4" screen perfectly offset to give the proper spacing. Having done that once I'd order #8 online next time. It was a real pain using 1/4" stuff. Window screen is too small and blocks mites and shb from falling through, while 1/4" would make the bottom virtually open allowing most anything in or out, not good.