An outdoor enclosure offers you and your family a range of advantages you can enjoy year-round thanks to our subtropical temperatures. The structures can be built to accommodate your specific needs using various materials. Unlike glass enclosures, which can cause some people to suffer an attack of claustrophobia, a mesh screen enclosure allows for air to flow freely throughout the structure. This is also an important feature in the fight against mold and mildew.
Glass enclosures, especially if not properly ventilated, trap moisture inside. That coupled with our hot, humid weather provides a prime environment for mold and mildew to thrive. Moreover, once it takes hold, it spreads. Screen enclosures ensure that every nook and cranny gets dried out because the air continually flows throughout the space.
There are some other points to consider before installing your enclosure.
Who, what, and where?
Deciding who you will hire to complete the build is a pretty serious decision. We recommend asking around to see if family or friends could recommend a contractor or company that they were happy with. You can also check out online reviews. Contact at least three sources and have them come out to give you an estimate. Then, determine which one you will hire after comparing them.
Local builders should be aware of any permits or licenses required that need to be obtained before beginning construction. If you live in a subdivision governed by a homeowners association (HOA), it’s a good idea to check with them before getting started. They may have guidelines regarding height, perhaps, or even where you can place new buildings. Some also govern where workers park, the hours they may work between, and other things that you want to know that can keep you from getting hit with a fine later.
Material possibilities
Most outdoor enclosures are constructed of aluminum because of its durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. It’s lightweight, too, making it easy to work with. Your enclosure will be structurally sound and require minimal maintenance.
Wood could also be used for framing your enclosure. If that’s the way you choose to go, keep up with your maintenance and plan to keep the wood properly treated and sealed. The salt in the air here coupled with our hot humid weather can quickly lead to problems such as rotting or warping.
Some enclosure companies are using polycarbonate panels for roofs and walls. They are impact-resistant and provide insulation while allowing sunlight to pass through them. Polycarbonate panels create a bright and inviting environment. Fiberglass and acrylic panels are fairly common building materials too.
Screen enclosures are popular in Florida. They’re usually made using fiberglass or polyester materials. The screens create the illusion of privacy while allowing fresh air to circulate constantly. We advise against using artisan wire screens as they are manufactured in China. They are poorly constructed, in general. Moreover, the wires used to weave the screen are very thin and break easily which can harm inquisitive pets or curious children. Artisan wire also falls prey to rust and salt erosion in short order.
Some contractors build “hybrid” enclosures using a mix of building materials that visually stimulate the senses. The structures combine a balance of durability, insulation, and transparency creating a very efficient—and very attractive—outdoor addition to your home.
Benefits to enjoy
The list of benefits provided by your enclosure is pretty impressive. We mentioned the privacy factor above. It’s the number one reason that homeowners share when asked why they added an enclosure to their homes. They also provide you with safety features. Your enclosure acts as a barrier that prevents children and pets from leaving the area if you get temporarily distracted. The barrier also prevents unwanted wildlife from getting up close and personal as it wanders through your yard.
Speaking of keeping things out, we specifically want to mention that bugs and insects won’t be crashing your party. The finely woven mesh screens hold them at bay—including noseeums. You can dine outdoors without flies swarming the table. What about night swims without a brigade of mosquitoes attacking? Yes! That’s what we’re talking about.
Your screen enclosure doesn’t provide total shade, but the damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays get filtered as they pass through them. It lessens their intensity meaning you won’t need to reapply sunscreen as often. Your furniture and decor won’t be affected by sun fade as quickly either. While we’re on the subject of money, enclosures increase your property value to a degree too. How much, of course, depends on factors, such as size and materials used.
Your lanai or pool area stays cleaner because dirt and debris won’t have access. You won’t need to clean nearly as often. You can imagine how great it will feel to get right down to the relaxing part of going outside. Are we right?
You should know about this perk too
Some companies offer to customize the screens which completely transforms the environment! Dyes fused with added UV protection ensure images remain vibrant for years.
Customers are amazed at the difference. Once you add your finishing touches to the space, you will have created a backyard getaway that is sure to be the envy of your family and friends. And your family may never want to gather anywhere else in the house!
That’s okay though. We have the perfect weather for hanging outside all year long—except for last year anyway. It was a little iffy. We pushed through though, yeah? And surely it won’t happen again for another century or so.
Surely.
And in the meantime, we’ll keep living life to the fullest—indoors or out.