Pool Enclosures

Your pool is a valuable asset that you should protect from anything that can contaminate it. Choosing the right type of coverage according to your requirements is critical, especially because there are many different kinds of pool protectants from which to choose. Enclosures are the most common type.

Are pool enclosures worth it? While quality pool enclosures can be expensive, they are worth it. Pool enclosures are commonplace. They provide protection from mosquitoes as well as shade from the sun and heat.

You are probably unsure if you should get a pool enclosure. Read this article as I weigh in on the pros and cons and whether you should get one.

Pool Enclosures

Enclosures for pools are high-quality structures that completely enclose the pool. Solid polycarbonate sheets and aluminum rails are commonly used to build enclosures.

They can be customized and are available in different size options. Like pool covers, they protect the pool from weather and debris.

The Advantages

1. Polycarbonate panels block UV radiation and protect the skin, allowing you to use your pool all year. You can also swim in an enclosed pool.
2. It maintains the pool temperature while lowering pool heating costs.
3. It can be easily retracted for swimming in the open air.
4. There is no need to open and close your pool every season because it is built to last.
5. You can swim all year long.
6. There is less evaporation.
7. It prevents the growth of algae around the swimming pool area.
8. It improves water quality.
9. You will use fewer water treatment chemicals.
10. With safety features and locks, it prevents children and animals from falling in.

The Disadvantages

1. Landscaping is costly and takes up a significant amount of yard space.
2. Regular panel preparation is necessary.
3. You can have privacy only if you choose to install privacy screens.
4. Over time, mold and mildew form, necessitating annual or biannual cleaning.
5. Mesh is prone to tearing and requires regular maintenance.
6. The water is up to 15% colder. This is great only during the summer.
7. Some people may feel claustrophobic.
8. Hurricane and tornado damage is a possibility. Unless you buy a rider, it is usually uninsurable.
9. Pine needles may collect.

The Cost of Pool Enclosures

Pool screen enclosures range in price from $6 to $8 per square foot. Based on that, you can budget at least a few thousand dollars for a screen for an average-sized inground pool.

Because of the following variables, estimating the bottom-line price for a pool screen is difficult:

• Area size of the screen.
• The number of sides that will be screened (does it connect to the house?).
• Use of materials in detail.
• Height of the enclosure.

Naturally, screening the pool yourself will save you money. Screen enclosure kits are available to make the job easier. Still, check to see if your project complies with your residential pool code.

Suppose you plan to use the enclosure to meet safety barrier requirements.

Retractable Pool Enclosure Cost

For a 700-square-foot area, retractable pool enclosures cost $70,000. You can expect to pay between $105,000 and $140,000 for a custom-designed, high-end retractable pool enclosure.

Glass Pool Enclosure Cost

Glass pool enclosures cost $38,500 for a 700-square-foot area, with prices ranging from $31,500 to $45,500.

In or Above Ground Pool Dome Cost

The cost of an in-ground or above-ground pool dome is $1,200. Depending on the size and type of pool, most homeowners spend between $870 and $1,500.

Pool Lanai Cost

The average cost of a pool lanai is $1,400, with most households spending between $1,200 and $1,600. A pool lanai is a glass enclosure attached to the house that serves as a second living space. It usually has a patio or a pool.

Pool Enclosure Kit Prices

Pool enclosure kits are $3,900 on average. For an above-ground pool, a pool enclosure kit costs as little as $1,700. For an in-ground pool, an all-vinyl pool enclosure kit costs $6,100.

Pool Cage Painting Cost

The average cost of painting a pool cage is $1.95 per square foot. The labor cost is $1.75 per square foot, and paint materials cost $0.20 per square foot.

The Maintenance and Replacement Costs of a Pool Screen

Small pool screen repairs range from $200 to $600, with a full rescreening costing between $1,200 and $3,500.

Maintaining your pool enclosure properly will extend its life by a decade or more. The following are examples of routine maintenance tasks:

• Cleaning the pool enclosure every six months or hiring a professional to pressure wash it once a year is a good idea.
• Replace weak and rusty screws, anchors, fasteners, and bolts.
• Repair or replace any damaged door hardware, and make sure it is lubricated.
• Replace any rotting fascia and soffits.
• Consider installing a super gutter to direct water flow.
• After a storm, tighten or replace any loose bracing wires.
• If you expect high winds, keep all movable objects away from the enclosure.
• Remove any peeling paint and touch up the canvas.
• Regularly inspect all screens, anchors, bracing wires, door hardware, adjacent timber, and rubber splines.
• At the first sign of damage, replace torn screens or glass/plastic panels.
• Replace any splines that have become loose.

The Estimated Lifespan of Pool Enclosures

Pool enclosures can last anywhere from 10 to 25 years, depending on the frame and screen used. The frame, roof panels, and labor are all covered by warranties for high-end pool enclosures.

The enclosure will last longer if you use high-quality screens, i.e., those made of aluminum framing.

Insurance Coverage

Your home insurer may not cover screened enclosures by default. You will typically buy coverage in $10,000 increments to add on coverage.

The most common coverage levels offered for a screened enclosure endorsement to your homeowner’s policy are:

• $50,000
• $40,000
• $30,000
• $20,000
• $10,000
• No Coverage

Obtaining insurance is only the beginning. The next step is to understand your coverage. Some Florida insurance companies will cover the entire enclosure, but most cover only the structure of the screen enclosure, not the screen or netting.

You will almost certainly not be compensated for the cost of repairs if a windstorm blows some branches into the mesh, even if it tears the screen netting. Insurance companies offer coverage for both in rare cases, so it is best to ask your agent.

Always check your deductible before filing a claim. If the damage is less than your deductible, you should not file a claim. With hurricane deductibles ranging from 2% to 5% in Florida, it doesn’t make sense. 

For example, let’s say you have a $9,000 hurricane deductible and a storm damages your screened enclosure to the tune of $5,000. If this is the situation, you should not file a claim.

The damage will not surpass your deductible, and your record will be penalized because you filed a claim.

Why Should You Get a Pool Enclosure?

Pool enclosures are expensive upfront, but they save money in the long run. The polycarbonate of the pool enclosure produces a greenhouse effect in the pool.

This means it can maintain warm water even during cold weather, which saves money on heating. Cleaning costs are reduced because the structure easily keeps dirt, debris, and animals out of the pool.

Enclosures have a sliding structure that allows you to close the pool when it is not in use. They are also great at preventing leaves, insects, and pollen from blowing into the pool.

Under the enclosure, protection from harsh weathering reduces maintenance costs. Chipping, cracking, and wear and tear are all reduced when your pool is kept out of the elements. Finally, by eliminating water evaporation, an enclosure lowers chemical costs.

Cut Down on Pool Maintenance and Energy Costs

Having a pool necessitates time and money spent on routine maintenance. This includes everything from pool chemicals to cleaning materials/services and energy costs.

Cleaning leaves, trash, dead bugs, and other debris, filters, and equipment is greatly reduced when using a swimming pool enclosure.

You can also reduce the number of chemicals you need to keep your pool sparkling clean all year. This is beneficial not only for your wallet but also for the environment.

Safety

Enclosures are much more secure than pool covers. Swimming pool safety can be a big concern for those with families or pets. To avoid unauthorized access, all enclosures can be retracted and locked.

Pool covers do not prevent drowning or falling into the pool. On the other hand, pool enclosures block access to the pool, reducing the risk of injury.

Year-Round Pool Usage

Enclosures for pools are also a great investment if you want to extend the season or use your pool all year! There’s no need to open or close your pool for the season when you have an enclosure.

Even in the winter, the enclosure retains heat and helps keep your pool water warm. Furthermore, the enclosures are large enough to swim under, allowing you to host pool parties throughout the year!

Customizable

All pool enclosures can be customized to meet your specific requirements! To match your pool and backyard, choose from a variety of heights, shapes, and sizes.

Do you have a pool with an odd shape? Don’t be worried! Enclosures for your pool can be customized to fit your needs!

Turn Down the Summer Heat

Florida is popular for its hot weather and abundant sunshine. Constructing a screen enclosure will help you beat the heat. Use top-of-the-line screening from Phifer, a screening industry leader.

The Sunscreen Mesh is great at reducing solar heat gain in the summer. According to studies, it absorbs and dissipates up to 70% of the sun’s heat and glare.

What does this imply for you, your loved ones, and your home? This screen serves as a barrier between you and the sun’s heat. It keeps you, your pet, and your family cooler and safer from the sun’s harmful rays.

Keep the Wild Side on the Outside

Florida is teeming with wildlife, even in suburban areas and communities, thanks to its tropical climate. All kinds of wild animals—most importantly, alligators—are kept out by building an enclosure around your pool and terrace.

A swimming pool screen enclosure also keeps out insects carrying the West Nile Virus. A screen protects you, your family, and your pets from these dangers.

Hiring a Pool Enclosure Company

Although small kit enclosures can be constructed on your own, most enclosures require the services of a professional installer. Professionals are most likely to have access to a wider range of materials at lower prices.

Before you hire a professional pool enclosure company, make sure you do the following:

1. To compare, get at least three estimates.
2. Ask family, friends, and neighbors for advice.
3. Check out HomeGuide, Google, and the Better Business Bureau for reviews and examples of their previous work (BBB).
4. Choose businesses that are insured and bonded and that have been in operation for at least five years.
5. Insist on a written warranty.
6. Inquire about previous pool enclosures.
7. Look for APSP CBP (Association of Pool and Spa Building Professionals) certified contractors.
8. In the event of a disagreement, request a full itemized contract in writing.
9. Make big payments in advance if possible. Never pay in cash or in full, and make a payment plan for finished work.

Building Considerations

Professionals advise that you use the following materials to build a high-quality pool cage:

1. Framing – Certified aluminum framing is solid, doesn’t rust or corrode like steel, and doesn’t rot like wood. It can be certified as hurricane strengthened, has built-in spline tracks, and is painted or anodized.


2. Beam Connections – Beam knuckles with internal gusset plates connect beams rather than a scissor connection.


3. Fasteners – Basic stainless heads can rust, so use premium 18/8 stainless or Pro-Tech fasteners.


4. Screen – Super Screen (17/20), Phifer TuffScreen (18/14), and Phifer No-See-Ums (20/20): These are pet- and weather-resistant meshes that are tightly woven to keep out almost all insects. They come with a 10-year warranty and can last up to 20 years.


5. Doors – Install a constant piano hinge, weather stripping, and an adjustable door sweep. It is also better to install a keyed or coded security lock embedded in the frame on heavier aluminum doors.

Conclusion

If you’re thinking about getting a pool screen enclosure, the best thing to do is wait. While some people may find pool enclosures not necessary, some do. After a couple of summers of use, you can have the pool screened in if it becomes necessary.