Screen Enclosures & Outdoor Structures

A Complete Guide for Florida Pool Owners

In Florida, screen enclosures and outdoor structures are among the most valuable additions you can include with your pool. They improve comfort, reduce maintenance, protect your pool from debris, and enhance the overall outdoor living experience.

At Professional Pool Company, we help homeowners understand how enclosures and structural add-ons affect design, cost, maintenance, and long-term enjoyment.

⭐ Why Florida Pool Owners Choose Screen Enclosures

✔ 1. Protection from Bugs & Wildlife

Florida is known for mosquitos, no-see-ums, lovebugs, and seasonal insects.

A properly built screen enclosure:

• Blocks pests
• Makes evenings more enjoyable
• Provides safe swimming for kids and pets

✔ 2. Reduced Debris & Easier Maintenance

Screened pools collect significantly less:

• Leaves
• Grass
• Dirt
• Pollen
• Small branches

This leads to:

• Cleaner water
• Less vacuuming
• Longer filter life
• Reduced chemical demand

✔ 3. Lower Sun Exposure

Screens naturally diffuse UV rays, helping to:

• Reduce sunburn risk
• Protect interior finishes
• Improve comfort during midday heat

This is especially important for light-sensitive pool finishes and Florida’s intense summer sun.

✔ 4. Improved Safety & Privacy

While screens are not a substitute for Florida’s required safety barriers, they still add:

• Visual privacy
• Structural separation between yard and pool
• Containment for pets
• Additional controlled access points

Many homeowners pair screens with fencing for maximum safety and code compliance.

⭐ Types of Screen Enclosures

✔ 1. Mansard / Traditional Enclosures

Most common style — sloped roof edges with a flat center.

Benefits:

• Uniform appearance
• Strong structural design
• Works with nearly all pool shapes

✔ 2. Two-Story Enclosures

Ideal for homes with balconies or high ceilings.

Benefits:

• Dramatic scale
• Lots of natural light
• Excellent airflow

✔ 3. Dome Enclosures

Rounded roof design that provides:

• Extra height
• Elegant aesthetics
• Strong wind resistance

✔ 4. Pan Roof & Solid Roof Extensions

These offer a blend of screen and solid coverings.

Great for:

• Outdoor kitchens
• Seating areas
• Shade structures
• Rain protection

They create a true indoor–outdoor living environment.

⭐ Frame & Screen Material Options

✔ Aluminum Frame (Industry Standard)

• Rust-resistant
• Lightweight
• Strong against Florida wind
• Low maintenance

✔ Screen Material Options

1. Standard Mesh – balanced airflow and visibility
2. No-See-Um Mesh – tighter weave, ideal for small insects
3. Pet-Resistant Mesh – reinforced durability
4. Privacy Mesh – limits visibility from neighbors

⭐ Engineering, Footers, and Structural Requirements

Screen enclosures must be engineered to meet:

• Florida Building Code
• Local wind load ratings (often 130–150+ mph)
• Proper footer depth and spacing
• Connection points to the home or deck structure

A well-built enclosure is both sturdy and long-lasting, especially with Florida’s storms and humidity.

⭐ How Enclosures Affect Pool Design

Your enclosure can influence:

✔ Pool shape & size

Rectangular and geometric pools often align well with screened spaces.

✔ Decking layout

Space must be planned for:

• Furniture
• Walkways
• Lighting
• Outdoor kitchens
• Spa access
• Water features

✔ Lighting and ambiance

Exterior lights, LED accents, and landscape lighting work beautifully inside an enclosure.

⭐ Outdoor Structures to Enhance Your Pool Area

✔ Pergolas

Provides filtered shade and visual depth.

✔ Cabanas

Perfect for resort-style lounging.

✔ Outdoor Kitchens

Ideal for entertainment-focused backyards.

✔ Fire Features & Seating Walls

Add ambiance and nighttime warmth.

✔ Covered Patios

Extend your usable outdoor space year-round.

These structures can be integrated into both screened and open-air pool designs.

⭐ Maintenance Considerations for Screen Enclosures

• Hose down frames periodically to prevent mildew
• Inspect screens for tears or loose spline
• Check bolts & anchors annually
• Trim trees to prevent falling branches
• Clean gutters on roofline connections

Upgrades such as super gutters, reinforced structural beams, and upgraded screen types can further improve durability.

⭐ ProPoolCo Recommendation

A screen enclosure is one of the smartest investments a Florida homeowner can make. It enhances comfort, protects your pool from debris, and extends the usability of your outdoor living area.

Whether you're adding an enclosure to a new build or upgrading an existing structure, proper engineering and high-quality materials are key to long-term performance.

⭐ Ready to Plan Your Screen Enclosure or Outdoor Structure?

Professional Pool Company can help design the perfect enclosure or outdoor living addition to match your pool and home.

👉 Call 321-252-7371 or visit propoolco.com to schedule a design consultation.

Updated on: 05/12/2025