Screen Enclosures, Sunroom
Do you long for a space that embraces the natural beauty found in your backyard without losing touch with all the comforts of home? You have several options. Here in Florida, two popular possibilities are a patio sunroom and a screen enclosure. How do you choose between them? Here are a few areas to consider:
Differences between a Patio Sunroom and a Screen Enclosure
There are many similarities between a patio sunroom and a screen enclosure. After all, both structures offer extra living space to your home. Additionally, they both allow access to the world outside while also providing some protection from the elements and other annoyances lurking in the great outdoors like insects, pollen and windblown debris.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
- Are you interested in transforming an existing aluminum porch or patio into a more comfortable living space?
- Is the existing patio under your roofline or would you need to start from the ground up?
You can use either approach for both sunrooms and screen enclosures.
What sets a sunroom apart from a screen enclosure?
The most significant difference is the walls. Sunrooms generally use windows to enclose the space. When left closed, they provide additional insulation and protection. However, they can also be opened to let fresh air in when desired. With screen enclosures, screens form the walls. On the flip side, the walls of a patio enclosure are made of screen. Living in central Florida, the weather allows us to enjoy the outdoors year-round. However, there are those few months in the summer that are unbearable as well as those few possible days when it gets downright chilly. Ultimately, the decision is up to you.
The Benefits of Building a Patio Sunroom
Sometimes called Florida rooms, sunrooms are an easy and affordable way to add usable living space to your home. They can also increase its value and its curb appeal. Thanks to the liberal use of windows, you’ll enjoy lots of light and a clear view of the attractive green spaces outside your home.
With a sunroom, you’ll also have considerable control over your environment. Your enjoyment of a screened porch is often at the mercy of the weather. Sunrooms have walls and windows, so they become an extension of your home. If it’s a beautiful, temperate day, then you can open the windows to let in the breeze. What if rain or allergens are making it miserable to be outside? Keeping your sunroom closed up will prevent these unpleasantries from creeping inside. When temperatures outside are outside of your comfort zone, you can opt to heat or cool the space. These factors make it possible for you to get more use, and more enjoyment, out of your sunroom.
The Advantages of Adding a Screen Enclosure
Why do some people decide to add a screen enclosure? While these structures don’t offer the same level of protection and control as a sunroom, they still provide a space where you can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors without worrying about sunburn, biting insects or other common annoyances.
Screen enclosures are also generally less expensive to build than sunrooms.
We hope you’ve picked up a few tips on deciding between a patio sunroom and a screen enclosure. When it’s all said and done, the decision is up to you.
If you’re looking for a patio contractor, turn to the professionals at Dulando Screen & Awning. Serving our fellow Floridians since 1968, we bring 50 years of experience to the table, and we’re happy to guide you through the process of adding a patio sunroom or screen enclosure to your home. Contact us today at 407-862-6060 to request a free in-home design consultation.
Screen Enclosures
When it comes to getting useful answers, there’s no better route than asking questions. If you’re ready to enhance your outdoor living space with a new screen room enclosure, the design consultation is an excellent time to seek answers. What happens during a design consultation? What questions should you raise? Here’s our list of questions to ask when building a screen room enclosure.
What can you expect during the design consultation? We allow the amount of time necessary for every homeowner to get through your questions as well as determine what you vision for your new outdoor living space. Throughout our appointment, we’ll take measurements and share pictures and samples. We’ll also explore the possibilities by discussing your preferences and ideas. Our goal is to design and build a screen enclosure that suits your style and your needs. Therefore, it’s helpful if everyone who will be using the space is present to share their thoughts and questions.
Questions to Ask
When hiring a patio contractor, you asked questions to assess their professional capabilities. During the consultation, the focus shifts to your project and its practicalities. It’s the ideal time to ask questions like the following:
- Can I build a screen enclosure here? You can imagine a screen room enclosure anywhere you like in your yard. However, matters like easements, setbacks and zoning ordinances impose limits in the real world. An experienced contractor can help you explore the possibilities and determine the best place for your new screen enclosure.
- What about permits? Permitting is often treated as a hassle, but it serves a purpose. It ensures that your new screen enclosure is built to code and ready to handle the local environment. Before any construction starts, you should know what permits are needed and who is responsible for getting them. If necessary, Dulando will always take care of the permitting for your new screen room enclosure.
- Is approval from my homeowner’s association necessary? The government isn’t the only body that creates guidelines for construction. In many communities, the HOA also has a say. To avoid headaches, we’ve created this handy project checklist should include checking with your HOA. You’ll need to discover what is allowed and what it takes to get the HOA’s approval. If your HOA has a specific form you need to be completed, let us know. We can help.
- Why do materials matter? Reviewing the pros and cons of various construction materials allows you to choose the ones that best meet your needs and your budget. Some screen room enclosure materials offer improved durability, greater efficiency or reduced maintenance. Others are more aesthetically appealing or allow you to add incorporate special features more readily. Being aware of these factors helps you make the most of your budget.
Making the Most of Your Consultation
At Dulando Screen & Awnings, we use a blend of exemplary customer service, high-quality materials and top-notch expertise to deliver amazing custom screen enclosures. Whether you’re interested in a screened patio, a screened-in porch or a swimming pool enclosure; we want to create your ideal outdoor living space. As part of that process, that’s why we offer free in-home design consultations.
For more than 50 years, Dulando has been crafting fantastic screen enclosures for people and businesses in the tri-county Orlando area. We’re ready to put our expertise to work for you. Would you like to learn more about how we create custom screen enclosures? Do you want to discuss your ideas for a project? Contact us today at 407-862-6060 to schedule a free no-obligation in-home consultation. Remember to print out these questions.
patio contractor, Screen Enclosures
You’ve daydreamed long enough. It’s time to put your plan of having a screen enclosure into action. Whether you’re handy or not, you still have one question. Do you do buy a screen porch system or hire a screen porch contractor? Keep these 10 points in mind before you make a final decision regarding the type of screen enclosure to add to your home.
What to Consider in a Screen Porch
Standard Screen Porch Sizes Don’t Always Fit
Patios, lanais and porches come in all shapes and sizes. Typically, screen porch systems and patio kits are available in standard dimensions. Their fixed measurements can complicate a DIY job and leave you scrambling to fill in gaps. Even if the measurements are close to what you want or need.
Screen Porch Kits Don’t Provide Spare Parts
When installing a screen porch system, if you crack it, bend it or break it, you’ll have to improvise. Most kits come with everything you need to build your own screen enclosure, but they don’t include spare parts. Even we carry extra parts. Things happen.
Quality Materials Make a Big Difference
An aluminum screen porch framing system has to hold up to heavy rains and high winds. If you are considering buying a screen patio kit from the home improvement center, make sure to understand the quality of materials. The cost of a patio enclosure kit may seem lower, but the quality of the materials may also be lower. Read more about choosing quality materials for a screen enclosure installation.
Existing Problems Make the Job Harder
Screen porch systems are best suited for a “perfect scenario.” What if your existing patio is not exactly level? It’s not easy to work with a patio that needs leveling or a patio roof that needs repairs. A screen porch contractor handles all types of structural challenges.
Anchoring Takes Construction Know-How
Before you bring home a screen porch system, ask yourself this question: Do you know how to anchor aluminum framing to brick, stucco or vinyl siding? YouTube can only take you so far. If you have any doubts, it’s best to hire a professional.
Running Electricity Requires a License
Most homeowners want to enjoy their new screen patio enclosure at all hours of the day and night. This probably means new electrical outlets and additional lighting will be necessary. Running electrical wiring isn’t recommended as a DIY project. A screen contractor always networks with local tradesmen and brings in trusted, licensed electricians.
Patio Building Codes Require Navigation
Local and state building codes apply to screened in patio projects, so be ready to obtain proper permits and follow the rules. This kind of compliance is routine for professionals who specialize in screen porch installations. When you choose Dulando to build your new patio enclosure, we’ll take care of all the permits and paperwork. We will even help you get approval from your HOA.
Screen Porch Contractors Offer Design Services
If your plans include a screened-in porch customized to complement your home’s exterior, talk to a patio contractor. The best in the business offers design consulting services and enjoy working with your ideas. Not all homeowners want a cookie-cutter patio enclosure. We’ve had the pleasure of building some amazing screened-in patios with beautiful and customized features.
Your Time Is Valuable
A screened-in patio or porch project takes time, tools and muscle. A patio contractor gets the job done quickly and efficiently with teams who handle every detail from fabrication to finishing.
Professional Screen Porch Construction Comes With Guarantees
When you hire a reputable screen porch contractor, craftsmanship and materials come with guarantees and warranties. You enjoy the security that comes from dealing with industry professionals who stand behind their work.
If you decide to put your daydreams in expert hands, Dulando Screen & Awning is here to serve you with nearly 50 years of experience. We’re proud of our reputation as the region’s leading screen porch contractor, and our quotes are always provided at no cost.
patio contractor, Screen Enclosures
Before you commit to working with a screen enclosure contractor, you’ll want to schedule an in-home meeting. The purpose of the meeting is for the contractor to measure your space and offer suggestions as to types of screen and possibly roof structures. However, this is a great time to ask those difficult questions to find out what sets your screen enclosure contractor apart from the others in the Orlando, Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach and surrounding areas.
During the meeting, you should ask the screen enclosure contractor a few questions before agreeing to work together. The answers to these questions will help you evaluate the contractor’s quality and how they measure up to the competition and ensure that you’ll be happy with your screened patio enclosure.
1. What is the History of Your Screen Enclosure Contractor?
Learning about the history of your patio contractor will help you determine if you’ve picked a team worth your investment. Established companies with years of experience have withstood the test of time. They are more likely to follow best practices to ensure that your project will be completed to your satisfaction within your established time frame and budget.
2. What is the Typical Payment Schedule?
Before signing any paperwork, it’s important to understand how the company structures the payment schedule for your screen porch enclosure. Many screen enclosure companies schedule payments based on completed milestones, but you’ll want to discuss this fully with any prospective company to avoid any surprises. No one likes surprises unless it involves cake.
3. May I See Previous Work Similar to My Project?
Past performance does not guarantee future results. However, seeing examples of past projects will give you a firm understanding of the quality of a company’s work. Most patio enclosure companies are happy to show off past examples of their work so that you can better envision the finished project. You can also ask for references for an unbiased review of the company’s workmanship and best practices. Don’t forget to check out their website. Most screen enclosure companies love putting photos of their finished work online. Ask if you can talk to any customers in your area.
4. What Guarantees Do You Offer on Your Work?
Screen enclosures are made from durable and long-lasting components, but sometimes manufacturing defects can cause an enclosure to age or even fail prematurely. A reputable screen enclosure contractor will include guarantees on both the materials and the workmanship of your completed enclosure. Only hire a contractor who isn’t afraid to stand behind their work with a guarantee to protect your investment.
5. What is the Projected Timeline?
Discussing the timeline for your project is an essential part of the consultation process. Many factors can affect the final timeline, including the contractor’s current workload. Other factors can also impact your timeline, such as permitting for the project or weather conditions. Depending on the time of year, weather conditions may be a huge factor in the timeline. Discussing your timeline requirements can help you decide which enclosure company to hire.
BONUS: Questions Your Contactor May Ask You
During the consultation, your screen enclosure contractor will also have a few questions for you. Your enclosure style preferences are likely to be a topic of conversation, and most contractors will also ask why you want an enclosure for your home. They’ll also want to physically inspect the location of the screen porch enclosure so that they can take measurements and evaluate the site’s suitability.
Additional Reading: Types of Phifer Screens for Your Pool or Patio Enclosure
A quality screen enclosure will last 10 to 20 years, depending on the materials you choose and the screen enclosure contractor. It’s important to thoroughly question when hiring the best screen enclosure contractor for your project.
Starting your relationship with a detailed in-home meeting is one of the best ways to ensure that you hire the right screen enclosure contractor. At Dulando Screen & Awning, we’ve been in business for almost 50 years and have built screened patio enclosures for thousands of homeowners. Contact us today at 407-862-6060 to schedule your in-home consultation with one of our design consultants.
Patio Enclosures, Screen Enclosures
If you’re lucky enough to have a screened porch or patio, then you understand just how appealing these structures can be. Have you ever wished that you could expand the space? It’s possible. In fact, we receive lots of queries from curious homeowners about patio extension screen enclosure projects. Why are so many people eager to extend a patio?
Top Reasons for a Patio Extension
More Living Space
An enclosed porch or patio brings the beauty of the outdoors inside while providing convenient protection that allows you to dodge common outdoor annoyances like insects, windblown debris and potential sunburn. People who opt to add a patio extension screen enclosure to their home generally point out that it’s an affordable way to add valuable living space. The same argument holds true for enlarging an existing patio.
Increased Functionality
If you have ever struggled to share a single umbrella with a couple of friends during a downpour, then you know firsthand that size can have a major impact on function. A properly designed screen room extension can transform a cramped lanai covering or patio area into an airy, useful space that is the perfect place for a wide range of pursuits. Extended patios or screened porches provide extra elbow room that can be utilized for entertaining family and friends, exercising or simply relaxing.
Better Aesthetics
Screening in a patio or screened porch enclosure can have a huge impact on the look of your property. A larger screened room can make the entire home look larger or alter the lines of the structure to create a more attractive shape. Adjusting the size or shape of a screened patio can also allow you to better capitalize on the beautiful views outside your home and to improve the traffic pattern in your outdoor living space. Frankly, increasing the size of your screened porch or patio can be a clever way to improve the aesthetic appeal of your home both indoors and out. This is especially true if you enlist the aid of an experienced patio contractor who can provide customized design and installation services so that the final product is the ideal fit for your property.
Improved Property Values
Since extending a screened porch or patio can provide more functional living space and enhance a home’s curb appeal, it’s no surprise that adding a screen room extension also has the potential to increase the value of your home. A roomy screened enclosure is often both a welcome addition and a wise investment.
Serving Orlando, Florida for over 50 years, Dulando Screen & Awning has a deep understanding of what it takes to craft a high-quality, custom patio extension screen enclosure. If you’re interested in extending your screened porch or patio, we’ll be delighted to help. From discovering the perfect design to providing a smooth, effective installation that results in a top-quality outdoor screen enclosure, we thrive on delivering excellence. Contact us today at 407-862-6060 to explore the possibilities for your patio screen enclosure project and arrange a free in-home design consultation.
Patio Enclosures, Pool Screen Enclosure, Screen Enclosures
Spring is in the air, and so is lots of pollen. If the sight of your porch, screened lanai or pool enclosure developing an ugly yellowish-green tinge is prompting you to type “how to clean screen enclosure” into your go-to search engine, then you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading for handy tips for screen enclosure cleaning.
Cleaning Screen Enclosures
While screen enclosures do an excellent job of keeping bugs, wildlife and yard debris out of your outdoor living spaces, their exteriors don’t repel pollen. Over time, pollen can accumulate on the structure’s surfaces, forming a film of yuck that makes your enclosure look old or dirty. Thankfully, there’s an easy fix. A little cleaning is all that’s needed to restore your patio or pool enclosure. For a general cleaning, there are basically two approaches that you can take. When cleaning a screened lanai or pool enclosures, you can:
Do it by hand. To clean a screen enclosure and frame by hand, you’ll just need a bucket, some dish soap, a brush with soft bristles, your garden hose, and a little elbow grease. Use the brush to gently scrub the screens and frame with warm, sudsy water. Then, rinse them with your garden hose and allow them to air dry. If the patio enclosure is really grimy, you might need to repeat the process.- Use a power washer. If you are cleaning a pool enclosure, especially those hard to reach areas, use a power washer. Or, if you prefer to put a little more power in your porch, lanai or pool enclosure cleaning, you can bring in a power washer. The hot, pressurized water used in power washing is a great way to blast away grime, but you have to be careful about just how much power you use. Too much can damage the screens. Always start out on the lowest possible setting and proceed with caution.
Removing Stains, Mold and Algae
Various substances can stain your screen enclosure, and moisture, pollen and spores will sometimes team up to form areas of mold or algae. If these stubborn spots resist your initial screen enclosure cleaning efforts, don’t give up. Add some vinegar to your arsenal. Use a 50-50 mix of hot water and vinegar and your brush or a sponge to scrub the problem spots. Then, follow it up with a thorough rinsing with your garden hose. Be sure to give any plants in the area a deep soaking to counteract any contact from the vinegar. Does the smell of vinegar make your nose wrinkle? Don’t worry. It will fade away as the area that you cleaned dries.
If you find that the cleaning solution with vinegar doesn’t quite work or you prefer to go straight to the hard stuff, bring out the bleach. Bleach can sometimes discolor aluminum, and it’s also hard on skin, so take a cautious approach here. Mix 3 parts water with 1 part bleach and wear gloves to protect your hands as you gently scrub the stained areas with the mixture. If problems persist, then you may want to seek out a professional company that offers screen cleaning services.
We’ve built thousands of patio and pool enclosures in central Florida in the last 50 years. If you interested in enriching your outdoor living spaces with a Florida room, patio screen enclosure, pool screen enclosure, aluminum awning or pergola? With more than 50 years of experience in providing residents of central Florida with quality products and excellent customer service, Dulando Screen & Awning is ready to get the job done right. Contact us today at 407-862-6060 to discuss your next home improvement project.
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