How the Right Pool Cage Can Upgrade Your Backyard

How the Right Pool Cage Can Upgrade Your Backyard

When temperatures soar in the Sunshine State, a swimming pool is a wonderful retreat. It’s ideal for play, exercise, and relaxation either in or alongside the water. How do you make a place that’s practically perfect even better? If enhancements like privacy and protection sound interesting, then consider adding a pool cage.

Frame Games: Choosing the Right Pool Screen Cage Style

Eyeglasses and pool cages are wildly different, but they share a foundational element: frames. With both products, frames serve as functional necessities, providing crucial support. They also offer aesthetic opportunities that can enhance appearances and express personal styles.

When selecting a pool enclosure, look for a frame that fits the architecture of your home, the layout of your pool area, and the way you use the space. There are numerous styles to consider. Popular picks include:

  •  Gable: Also known as an A-frame, this style features two sloping sides, creating a familiar triangular silhouette. It matches the look of many Florida homes.
  •  Dome: The striking circular shape of a dome is instantly recognizable. It offers a stately touch and does a wonderful job of resisting strong storms and heavy winds.
  •  Mansard: A lesser-known style, this roof features a flat center section. Four sides slope down from there. Mansard roofs offer an airy, spacious feel.
  •  Custom: Sometimes, the best solution requires a unique approach. When your swimming area has an unusual layout or you have a strong desire to stand out, a custom frame can meld characteristics of popular styles to deliver the right result.

Material Matters: Building for Durability and Design

As you’re trying to imagine your new enclosure, the frame style is a great starting point. Exploring materials gives you more building blocks. If you value quality, durability, and ease of maintenance, embrace aluminum for your frame. With its ability to resist rust and pests, this strong but lightweight metal thrives in Florida’s humid climate.

Screens are another key ingredient for a pool enclosure. What matters most to you? Will you look for a no-see-um mesh to maximize insect resistance? Or, would you prefer a clear, strong screen that can span wide expanses for panoramic views? Are you prioritizing sun control or privacy? Do you want a durable screen ready to withstand Florida’s occasionally intense weather? Choosing a quality product from a trusted manufacturer will help you find your desired qualities in a screen.

Feature Focus: Elevating Your Pool Cage Design With Special Touches

Adding special features can transform a pool enclosure into a luxurious outdoor living room. Install lighting to extend your swim time. Include ceiling fans for greater comfort. For more possibilities, add electrical outlets or a sound system. Does your family have pets? Create a more pet-friendly space by installing pet doors or using a pet screen.

Custom Comfort: Exploring How a Custom Pool Cage Transforms Your Backyard Experience

Your backyard is a place to escape stress. A custom pool enclosure can reduce worries about pests and debris in the pool area. It’s an attractive feature that can boost property values, enhance privacy, increase sun protection, and foster fun. As an expert in custom screen enclosures, Dulando Screen & Awning is ready to help you create your dream enclosure. To explore the many possibilities for pool cage design, contact us today.

Choosing the Right Central Florida Pool Enclosure Contractor

Choosing the Right Central Florida Pool Enclosure Contractor

A pool screen enclosure can be a game-changer. It protects your pool from the unpredictable Florida weather, keeps debris out of the pool, and adds safety and privacy to your pool area. However, if you’re unsure where to start, looking for the right Central Florida pool enclosure contractor can overwhelm you. If you’re in Central Florida and looking for the right pool enclosure builder, there are several factors to consider to ensure you make the best choice for your needs.

Finding a Central Florida Pool Enclosure Contractor

Trust Only Local Screen Enclosure Contractors

Suppose you search for “pool enclosure builders near me” to find local contractors. This will give you a list of potential companies specializing in pool enclosures. Seek businesses with a strong presence in Central Florida, whether that’s the Orlando area or on the East Coast. They will know local building codes and better understand our weather conditions. It’s best to choose a local screen enclosure contractor.

Check Online Reviews and References

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After you’ve compiled a list of potential builders, take the time to read online reviews. Websites like Google, Yelp, and social media provide helpful information about work quality and customer service. When possible, ask for references from the pool enclosure builder. Speaking directly with past clients can give you a clear picture of what to expect.

Evaluate Experience and Longevity

When choosing a pool enclosure contractor, experience matters. Look for companies that have been in business for several years and have a portfolio of completed projects. Experienced pool enclosure builders will better understand the various building materials and designs available.  This expertise can lead to a more durable and aesthetically pleasing pool enclosure. Florida is known for transient contractors. Working with a well-established screen enclosure contractor will provide peace of mind.

Consider Customization Options

Every pool area is unique, and your enclosure should reflect your style and needs. Inquire about the customization options available from each builder. Not all pool enclosure companies offer a range of designs, colors, and materials. It is important to create a pool screen enclosure that complements your home and landscape. A good builder will work with you to design a pool cage that meets your requirements.

Get Multiple Central Florida Pool Enclosure Contractor Quotes

Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Contact several pool screen enclosure companies near you to get estimates. This will not only give you a better idea of the average cost but also allow you to compare the services offered. Be sure to ask about what is included in the quote, such as materials, labor, and warranties. Look at the details of the quote. This is not the time for surprises. It’s important to discuss your project’s requirements with your pool enclosure builder so that those details can be added to the quote.

Verify Licensing and Insurance

Before making a final decision, ensure all candidates are licensed and insured. This protects you from liability in case of accidents during the construction process and ensures that the builder adheres to local building codes. This is also the first step in protecting you from illegitimate businesses. The pop-up pool enclosure builders are not licensed or insured.

When you’re ready to build a swimming pool enclosure, ensure you receive the quality you deserve. Opt for a seasoned pool enclosure contractor who genuinely listens to your needs. Ensure your new pool screen enclosure aligns with your lifestyle, property, and budget. Experience the Dulando difference firsthand. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary in-home consultation.

Do Pool Enclosures Block UV Rays?

Do Pool Enclosures Block UV Rays?

A well-designed pool screen enclosure shields your pool area from numerous troubles. It provides a layer of security and limits the intrusion of insects, debris, and UV rays. Everyone concentrates on insects and debris, but UV rays are especially harmful in Florida. Let’s dive further into how pool screen enclosures can block UV rays and the types of screens that will protect you and your family.

The Danger Posed by UV Rays

Floridians are aware that harmful UV radiation is emitted by the sun. Too much exposure is linked to painful sunburn. Over time, it can also lead to premature aging of the skin and skin cancer. Applying sunscreen is one strategy to safeguard your skin when you’re in or around the pool. Unfortunately, too much sunscreen will clog your pool filter. Additionally, it’s easy to forget to reapply. A shielding pool screen enclosure UV protection gives a valuable extra layer of protection. As a bonus, preventing the sun’s rays from reaching your pool area can reduce fading of furniture and other items.

How Pool Screen Enclosures Block UV Rays

Today’s top-rated screens are much more than crossed fiberglass wire. These innovative products are engineered to accomplish amazing feats. This includes absorbing and dissipating the sun’s energy before it causes problems. Choosing a quality screening product is a key element when you want a pool enclosure that will keep UV rays at bay.

The Best Screening Products for a Florida Pool Screen Enclosure

When you live in the Sunshine State, it may seem particularly tricky to select screening products that can shield your pool area from UV rays. As a Florida-based company that’s been building custom screen enclosures since 1968, Dulando Screen & Awning understands. We understand the Florida climate and only work with screen manufacturers who can deliver. You can expect exceptional results when you combine quality products with meticulous craftsmanship.

One of the top fiberglass screen manufacturers is Phifer Screens. We’ve worked with Phifer for many years and highly recommend Phifer SunScreen for swimming pool enclosures. In addition to guarding against UV rays, it stops even tiny insects and keeps debris out to reduce pool cleaning. Additionally, it allows the breeze and natural light in, so the atmosphere inside your pool enclosure remains pleasant. The SunScreen is also treated to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold, or mildew, which keeps the space healthier and more attractive.

Phifer Super Solar is a smart selection if you want peak solar protection. A vinyl-coated fiberglass, this attractive screening blocks up to 90% of the sun’s glare. You’ll still enjoy excellent visibility and ventilation, but you’ll get enhanced privacy.

Of course, for best results, that top-notch screening product should be incorporated in a well-designed and carefully constructed enclosure that a trusted pool screen enclosure contractor installs. An experienced contractor can help you select the best materials for your enclosure, including the right screen.

A custom pool screen enclosure offers a wide range of advantages. Whether you’re interested in protection from UV rays, greater comfort around your pool, extended use, additional security, reduced maintenance, enhanced privacy, increased property values, or all of the above, Dulando Screen & Awning is happy to assist you. Reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation.

Choosing the Best Insect Screen Material for Your Patio or Pool Enclosure

Choosing the Best Insect Screen Material for Your Patio or Pool Enclosure

Have you ever noticed when you have too many choices, it can be overwhelming? We’ve been told that’s how some homeowners feel while looking at screen options for their enclosure. Choosing the best insect screen material for your patio or pool enclosure may seem daunting, but there is usually one clear winner after providing an overview of each type. It’s our pleasure to explain the different types of screens to see which insect screen material is the best for you.

Advances in screen material technology have opened new possibilities and created new choices. Different screen materials can shield you from insects, protect you from the sun, and offer greater privacy. Some screen materials are designed to withstand the exuberance of children or pets. Choosing the best insect screen material for your patio or pool enclosure is a matter of weighing your priorities.

Description of Different Screen Materials

Aluminum Screening

Aluminum insect screen is rigid but reasonably durable. However, it can have issues with creasing and denting when under pressure. It’s generally available in shades, including black, charcoal, and bright aluminum.

Bronze Screening

Bronze screens are often selected for historic homes to maintain their integrity. Their visual appeal can be striking. While the material may start with a fresh, gold glow, it ages to a burnished, antiqued finish, which is why it’s the perfect choice for historic homes.

Stainless Steel Screen

Stainless steel screen mesh is known for its crystal-clear visibility, excellent airflow, incredible tensile strength, and longevity. However, in Florida’s climate, stainless steel screen mesh will rust.

Fiberglass Screen Material

Why is fiberglass the most popular screening material? It doesn’t corrode or stain, which makes fiberglass insect screens an excellent choice for pools, patios, places with high humidity, and coastal settings. It also has a tighter screen mesh, so it excels at keeping bugs out. In addition, fiberglass screen material comes in various colors but still allows for unfettered viewing, so you can see everything clearly through the screen.

Vinyl-coated Polyester Screen

Polyester has long been appreciated for its ability to resist tearing and fraying. They’ve created an array of highly durable screening products by coating this versatile fabric with vinyl. When you select vinyl insect screens, you get weather-resistant screens that are hardy enough to withstand excitable children and pets.

Quality Insect Screen Material

Phifer Screens

At Dulando Screen & Awning, complete customer satisfaction is our top priority. To achieve that, our team of talented designers, skilled fabricators, and dedicated installers uses only the absolute best materials. When it comes to screening, we use Phifer Screens. An undisputed leader in the screening industry, Phifer consistently offers innovative screening materials that exceed customer expectations.

Which insect screen material is the right choice for your next project? As experts in screening and creating superior outdoor living spaces, the Dulando Screen & Awning team is ready to assist you. If you have additional questions about insect screens or other types of patio screens, please call us. We’d be happy to help you explore the pros and cons of various screening materials. Reach out to discuss your options or schedule a free in-home design consultation today.

When is it Time for a Complete Pool Rescreening

When is it Time for a Complete Pool Rescreening

When you add a pool enclosure, chances are you want to add style to your backyard by defining the area and creating an outdoor room around your pool. It offers a measure of security and privacy by surrounding your pool with a barrier. Plus, it keeps your pool cleaner and reduces the time and effort you’ll spend maintaining it by keeping debris out. However, the pool screen enclosure also needs to be maintained. What happens when your pool enclosure is past its maintenance timeframe? How do you know when it’s time for a complete pool rescreening? These signs can offer you a heads-up.

Updates in Technology Offer Appealing Possibilities
Technology changes constantly. New materials become more durable and better equipped to handle our Florida sun and storms. New screening products can deliver enhanced durability, increased privacy, better insect protection, and improved sun protection. Exploring these possibilities makes it easy to see the appeal of upgrading your screens. If your pool enclosure was built over 20 years ago and looks past its prime, you might consider a pool rescreening.

Mold Has Moved In
Florida’s warm, humid climate ensures that you’ll find plenty of days to enjoy your swimming pool. This humid environment also allows mold and mildew to thrive, especially if you have many trees in your yard. Trees and other coverings just trap the humidity. Mold can grow on pool screens, causing damage and staining. If you’re struggling with a heavy mold infestation and you’ve attempted multiple cleanings, it might be time to consider a pool screen replacement.

Rips Are Making Your Screens Look Ragged
The Sunshine State sees its share of stormy weather. Even though an experienced pool cage contractor will build to Florida code, sometimes, Florida afternoon storms or even hailstorms can cause lots of damage. High winds, heavy rains, and the debris they toss around can rip and tear screens. A pool screen repair may be enough if only one or two tears are in your screen. However, if multiple tears are in your pool screens, a full pool rescreening may be a better solution.

Sun and Salt Have Weakened Your Screens
Storms may be the most obvious source of problems, but they aren’t the only environmental menaces that Florida pool enclosures face. The strong sun and salt air on the coast are undeniably harsh. If your screens show signs of corrosion or wear, don’t wait until they collapse. A pool cage rescreening could breathe new life into your enclosure.

Connection Points Are Having Trouble
If your pool enclosure connects to your home, trouble at the area where it meets the fascia or soffit may raise a red flag. Squirrels and birds love to nest here, which can lead to damage. In addition, this connection can sometimes become a source of drainage issues. This can lead to water damage and mold problems. It’s important to check this area annually for any damage. Any indication of trouble with the fascia or soffit where the house and pool cage connect should be addressed immediately.

Time Has Worn Out Your Screens
Even high-quality pool enclosures that are lovingly maintained will eventually falter. If yours is nearing 20 years of service, even minor issues probably shouldn’t be handled with a pool enclosure screen repair. A full rescreening will likely deliver better value. Sometimes, our screen enclosures look old and tired. That’s okay. They were not meant to last a lifetime. Anything over 20 years is a good run.

Dulando Screening & Awning delights in creating custom pool cages and assisting our fellow Floridians with fixes for their existing ones. Whether you’re interested in pool rescreening or a pool screen replacement, our expert team can help you explore your options. Contact Dulando Screening & Awning today to discuss the possibilities.

What’s the difference between 18/14 Screen and 20/20 Screen

What’s the difference between 18/14 Screen and 20/20 Screen

When building a patio or pool screen enclosure, the most popular screen options are an 18/14 screen mesh or a 20/20 screen mesh. Both options offer terrific visibility and a variety of other benefits. Let’s explore the differences between an 18/14 screen and a 20/20 screen.

Taking Count

Practicality leads the way when it comes to naming certain types of screens. If you need proof, consider this: 20/20 screens contain 20 openings per inch horizontally and vertically. What does this mean for 18/14 screens? If you look closely, you’ll find 18 rectangles per inch across. Meanwhile, 14 rectangles stacked together will total an inch.

Exploring the Differences

The differences in the density of the screen mesh are slight, but they’re important. In order to pack more openings in the same space, 20/20 screening has smaller openings. Anyone searching for insect screen can opt for either 18/14 or 20/20 screening because their tight weaves will keep most flying insects out while still allowing plenty of fresh air to flow through. However, the tighter weave of 20/20 screens offers protection from more pests. The 20/20 screen is sometimes called a no-see-um screen because it keeps tiny pests like no-see-ums, sand flies, and gnats out of your screen enclosure.

Contemplating Quality

You’ll want to consider screen mesh size when you’re shopping for screening for your porch, lanai, screen room, screened patio, or pool cage. Still, it’s not the only thing to think about. Quality is a clear concern. Inferior screens constructed from cheap materials may seem like a bargain, but they tend to be less effective and come with shorter lifespans. Dulando Screen & Awning offers Phifer Screen because we know that quality materials deliver real value.

18/14 mesh screen

Our favorite 18/14 screen is crafted in the United States from durable fiberglass mesh that easily lasts for up to a decade. This 18/14 mesh is suitable for swimming pools and patio enclosures. Our most popular colors are charcoal and silver gray, making it an attractive choice for homeowners. The strength of an 18/14 mesh can easily protect your space from windblown debris and insects.

20/20 mesh screen

20/20 screen is the top choice when battling no-see-ums and other tiny pests. Woven from a permanent glass yarn coated with vinyl, this charcoal-colored fiberglass screening provides practicality, flexibility, and beauty. With a lifespan comparable to other high-quality screen products, it won’t rust or stain. The 20/20 mesh allows for good ventilation, provides superior insect protection, and enhances privacy. However, the higher screen mesh does not sacrifice visibility.

It’s easy to assume that screens are interchangeable. The differences are subtle, so it can be hard to detect them at a glance. However, modern patio screens can vary widely in quality, capability, and longevity, so it’s essential to look closely at any screening that will be used for your new screen room. Whether you’re seeking escape from insects, extra durability, protection from the sun, or enhanced privacy, there’s a screening product for that.

Additional Reading: Types of Phifer Screens

If you have more questions about choosing the right screen mesh for your new patio or pool enclosure, give us a call. Dulando Screen & Awning takes pride in designing and constructing quality custom screen enclosures that bring pleasure and value to your space. Our expert team will be happy to help you explore your options. Contact us today to schedule a free in-home design consultation.