Pictures Windows On Screen Enclosures: Everything You Need To Know

Wondering what a picture window is? No need to look further. Here is a guide that includes everything you need to know about picture windows. Continue reading to find out the meaning, different layouts, advantages, and cost of picture windows.

What is a Picture Window?

A picture window, or also called clearview, on a screen enclosure is a large opening of screen unobstructed by any aluminum members. These can span 30 feet and be slightly taller than 10 feet.

Regular screen enclosures usually have vertical members and chair rails every few feet. Picture windows remove these as well as the ‘cage feeling’ brought by the regular ones. It is a high-strength aluminum structure that is designed to handle much more weight than the average enclosure, so it can handle losing some vertical beams. Removing these obstructions will also provide a better view of the surroundings.

Picture Window Layout Options for Screen Enclosures

There are three different layouts for picture windows:

Whole enclosure

You can get a contractor to re-engineer all the sides of your pool enclosure. This means that all the sides won’t have a lot of vertical members or chair rails that obstruct the view. 

One whole wall

A less expensive layout is getting only one wall converted to a picture window. The entire front wall is re-engineered for maximum view. 

Part of one wall

Another option is getting the middle part of the front wall converted to a picture window. This is not as expensive as the other options but it still provides a pleasant view of one’s surroundings.

Types of Screen for a Picture Window

It is best if a heavy-duty polyester screen such as Superscreen or Ultra Screen is used on these large openings.

A polyester screen has small gaps in between the threads which enables it to withstand strong pressure, as heavy as 63 pounds, from the wind.

Standard screens such as New York Wire or Phifer 18/14 screen usually don’t last much longer than a year when used in openings this large.

Advantages of having a Picture Window

Why should you get a picture window? Here are some of the benefits of getting or converting your existing one into a picture window.

• Maximized view

Say goodbye to the frames that obstruct your view. You can now enjoy the river, lush greenery, or whatever view you have outside when you convert your pool cage into a picture window. Plus, even if there are fewer beams, it’s still as durable as a traditional pool enclosure.

• Feel the nice breeze

Not only is the view maximized, but you will also get better ventilation. Its large opening will let more wind in since there are no aluminum members that break up the wind.

• Bug-free and durable screens

Just because it has a large opening, doesn’t mean bugs can easily invade your outdoor area. As mentioned above, the screen it uses has the tiniest gaps that prevent insects from entering. The screen is also resistant to insect scratches and can withstand strong gusts of wind. 

• Modern design

It adds a modern and minimalist touch to an existing or brand new pool cage. A picture window makes a more attractive screen enclosure design than the traditional ones since it doesn’t even look like a pool ‘cage’ anymore. This will make your enclosure look unique and stand out from other pool cages in your neighborhood.

• Layout options

As mentioned above, you can get three different picture window layouts. It depends on your preference and the size of the pool enclosure.

• Increases the value of your home

Since a screen enclosure usually takes up a large part of your property, upgrading it will increase the value of your home. Converting your existing one or getting a new one with a picture window will add a more aesthetically-pleasing structure to your home. If you ever plan to sell your home in the future, this may help you sell it quickly, even with a high price tag.

Note: Make sure to get a reliable and professional contractor who will use long-lasting materials so you will get a high-quality structure.

Getting a Picture Window

Great news for homeowners with existing pool cages – these can be built from scratch on new screen enclosures and it can also be built into existing ones.

Brand new enclosure

It’s best to get a picture window when you’re planning on getting a pool enclosure installed. You can opt for all the sides done in a clear view configuration with only posts in the corner, as long as your enclosure is within a 30 feet span.

Convert your existing one

Picture windows can also be built into an existing enclosure, so you can have yours done even if you already have one. For the layout, you will need to ask your contractor which layout options are viable or which sides can be reconfigured.

With a Pool Enclosure Restoration

If you’re going to get your pool cage restored, you can also ask your contractor if they can convert it to a picture window while they’re at it. You’ll be getting two projects done at once, saving more time for you and your contractor.

Note: Getting a picture window (or a new screen enclosure) requires structural permits, engineering, and even a survey. It is important to make sure your contractor obtains a permit for this as it needs to be engineered to withstand your local wind. You wouldn’t want an unethical or cheap contractor using thin aluminum members supporting the enclosure.

With that, I have seen many homes with an unpermitted picture window conversion done on a screen enclosure in Lee and Collier County (Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, and Naples area), cited for having non permitted work done, or hold up the sale of a home. Ultimately, non permitted work always comes back to bite you in the ass and become more of a headache.

How much does it cost?

As of writing this post, I would expect it to cost at least $4,000 to add a picture window of about 30 feet by 10 feet to an existing screen enclosure, with permit and engineering. 

Of course, this is subject to fluctuate in every area so it is best to get a quote from a contractor in your area. If you have an existing pool enclosure, ask for the rates for each layout option. Do the same if you are getting a brand new enclosure.