How Much Do You Really Know About Screen Enclosures?

It’s just something you don’t really think about. You enjoy the benefits of its protection from bugs and critters, the shelter it provides from the sun’s harmful rays, and the way it keeps your pool area neat and clean. But do you ever stop and think about how much you really know about your screen enclosure? If you’re anything like most people, the answer is no. Here are 10 things we bet you didn’t know about that nifty little structure that is situated in your backyard:

1. The type of screen you have makes a big difference. We are willing to bet, you do not know what grade or type of screen you currently have, and that will make a huge difference in its durability, life span, storm resistance, and bug repellant properties. When building a new structure, sure you can go with the lowest, cheapest bidder, but most likely you are getting just that, a low grade, cheap screen. You should stay away from cheap Artisan screen. Instead, choose Phifer screen or better.  Polyester screen is stronger than Artisan screen or even Phifer fiberglass screen. The manufacturers stand behind polyester screen with a 10-year warranty, but these screens often last 20 years or longer.
2. There is such a thing as a “No See Um” screen. If you are getting bit while in your screen enclosure, you either have tears in the screens, or chances are you do NOT have the “No See Um” Screen. Living in Florida, we know exactly how pesky these little bugs are, and do not want them anywhere around us when we are attempting to socialize or relax in the back porch. Both fiberglass and polyester screen come in the “No See Um” weave.
3. You must change your fasteners. I know, right. What the heck are fasteners and how often do I need to change them? If you get a quality screen enclosure built with rust proof Nylo-tech fasteners, you will not need to change them too often. However, if you see rusty or loose bolts, the safety of your structure is in jeopardy, and could be unsafe come a bad storm or strong wind. It is recommended to change your fasteners when you get a rescreen.
4. When it’s time to change a few panels, you may want to rescreen. If you are noticing some loose or torn panels, or discoloration, it may be time to rescreen. You may initially think about just changing a few screens, but it is much more expensive to choose that route over a full rescreen. You will eliminate multiple service fee charges, and purchasing screen in bulk is way more cost efficient than purchasing individual small panels.
5. Your screens are life saving. This is not an exaggeration. Your screen enclosure will save you from some of the  exposure of the sun’s harmful UV rays, as well as giving you protection from the world’s deadliest creatures, the mosquito. Don’t believe us?  Google it!
6. Most likely, your enclosure is NOT covered by insurance – but it could be.  Have you checked your homeowner’s insurance policy?  Most likely, your screen enclosure is not covered unless you purchased a separate ryder. If it is, it most definitely does not even come close to covering the cost or replacement, and most definitely does not cover the screen.
7. Your screen enclosure can be repainted. We have yet to see a screen enclosure painted bright yellow and purple, but if the structure of your enclosure is looking a bit dull and faded, you can make it look like brand new by simply repainting the aluminum. However, you will not want to hire commercial or residential painters. You will want to hire a company who specializes in screen repairs as they are trained and have all the specialized equipment to complete the job.
8. You can purchase decorative or privacy screens. There are screens available with imprints on them to add decor to your screen enclosure, they can range from shapes to landscape scenery. Or if you are looking for a bit more privacy from your neighbor, some of these screens are one way. Meaning, you can see out through them, but your neighbors can’t see it.
9. You will want to hurricane proof your screen enclosure. Did you know that entire screen enclosures have completely disappeared during horrible Florida storms and hurricanes? If they are not bolted down securely, or the beams are loose, these things can come tumbling down. It is very important to make sure your screen enclosure is safe. Many homeowners add additional hurricane restraints for extra protection.
10. Your screen enclosure is actually helping maintain the condition of the pool. First, it keeps dirt and debri out, and second, it keeps the temperature of the pool a bit cooler allowing the chlorine to act more efficiently, and keep water levels at bay.