Pool screen enclosures are worth their weight in gold because it allows pool owners to spend less time cleaning the pool and more time enjoying their outdoor oasis.
Many homes in Florida have pool enclosures to defend against insects, animals, and debris. Pool enclosures are made of aluminum or vinyl and fiberglass mesh screens. Over time, parts of the structure can be damaged from Florida weather, the age of the structure, and even pets that chew on it.
If you’re dealing with a broken or damaged pool screen enclosure, how do you know when to replace it or just repair it? A few things you’ll want to consider before making a decision are the age of your enclosure, the extent of the damage, and the cost of the repairs.
Let’s look at how to tell when it’s time to replace your pool screen enclosure.
Signs to Repair Your Pool Screen Enclosure
There are several signs that you may need to repair your pool screen enclosure in your Florida home. This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it gives you an idea of what justifies a repair.
- Holes in the screen
- A loose screen that sways in the wind
- Sagging screen panel
- Damaged frame
- Chipped paint
- Excessive bug bites
- Screen doors that won’t close
If your screen has holes, tears, or a sagging or loose framework, you should have the screen enclosure repaired as soon as possible. A quick repair will keep your pool area safe and enjoyable for you and your family and prevent further damage.
If you are getting a lot of bug bites while inside your pool enclosure, you may have a faulty screen. Modern mesh screens can keep even the smallest leaves and insects out of your outdoor pool area. Or, if your mesh screen is very old, it should be replaced with a finer mesh screen capable of keeping insects out.
Due to the natural humidity, mold or algae may also be a problem in Florida and pool areas. Algae remaining on screen enclosures for too long will cause permanent damage.
When to Replace Your Pool Screen Enclosure
Screen enclosures are not designed to last forever. Over time, they break down or have irreversible damage. If your pool screen enclosure has extensive damage or is more than a few decades old, you may need to replace all or part of it.
A replacement may be a bigger cost but could be necessary. Signs to replace your pool enclosure include:
- Large sections have damage, tears, and sagging.
- Frame made of brittle aluminum or vinyl
- Hardware that is rusted, broken, or missing
- Over the age of twenty years old
The beauty of screen enclosures for your pool and patio is to keep out wandering critters and falling debris. If you have large portions of damaged mesh screen, it needs to be replaced to keep it functional.
Another common issue requiring replacements is rust and other damage to the metal components. This is not only unsafe, but it’s terrible for the frame in the long run. The faulty hardware can cause excessive force to be placed on other areas, which leads to breakage.
Consider how old it is when deciding whether to repair or replace your specific structure. They last about twenty-five years before needing to be replaced as part of routine home maintenance.
If you want to change the design of your pool enclosure, hire a professional to install a new enclosure. Some upgrades and features that can help meet your family’s needs include pet-proof mesh and privacy screens.
Pros and Cons
Let’s examine the benefits and drawbacks of repairing or replacing a pool screen enclosure. The first is the cost. Repairs are usually less expensive, but if the damage is extensive, replacing the entire enclosure may be more cost-effective.
The age of the enclosure is the second factor. If the enclosure is old and showing signs of wear and tear, replacing it is probably the best option.
The third consideration is the type of damage. The extent of damage will determine whether it is worth repairing or replacing. If the damage is structural, it may be necessary to replace the enclosure. However, if the damage is cosmetic, the screen enclosure could simply need a repair.
Another reason to consider repairing an outdoor screen enclosure is that it does not match the look and feel of your home, and it lacks the features you want. A professional can help you decide what to do with your pool enclosure by answering questions about your situation. At Scott McDonald Painting, we provide free estimates for those looking to upgrade their pool enclosures.
Upgrade Your Pool Enclosure Today
Give your pool screen enclosure a little TLC. We’d be delighted to help you install a screened pool enclosure to complete your home’s look and functionality. We can also refinish the pool deck to make it more beautiful, water-resistant, and prevent slipping. We are painting and repair professionals in Orlando that can answer any questions you may have.
Feel free to contact Scott McDonald Painting anytime for a free estimate!
