Types of Screen Enclosures in a Swimming Pool

Roofing Types

• Screen enclosures have two types of roofing choices. A pool cage screen enclosure has screened panels across the roofing beams, allowing sun to pour into the swimming pool area. In contrast, a screen room has a solid ceiling or roof, typically translucent panels. Direct sunlight will not reach through the solid panels, but offers a radiating light feature at it bounces off the roof material.

Enclosure Shapes

• Many enclosure shapes are available for matching the architecture of the surrounding home. A dome shape provides a roof with a soft curve covering the entire pool. A gable shape gives the enclosure a sharp peak at the roof's center line. Mansard styles create a flat, middle roof area, with side walls attaching to angled panels connecting to the flat roof. A shed shape attaches to the side of a home. The roof juts out in a downward angle and attaches to a side wall. Hip styles offer four angled roof sides, culminating with a middle roof peak.

Side Paneling

• The side paneling can vary in installation spacing. The support beams can be spaced at nine, 10, or 11 feet wide. The larger spacing offers clear views through the screen material without the support beam obstruction. Screen material varies in strength. Areas that receive snow and ice should consider a thicker mesh for withstanding the winter elements. Additionally, thicker support beams should be installed for snow and ice regions, as well as hurricane-prone areas.

Enclosure Benefits

• Covering the pool with a screen enclosure saves on cleaning costs. Cleaning can take a few hours if a pool is extremely dirty from debris floating on the water's surface. Even if a pool hasn't been used recently, a homeowner can usually use an enclosed pool immediately.

Pricing

• A sturdier screen enclosure, such as a thick beam and mesh combination, is more expensive than a lightweight installation. However, the homeowner will save money over the years with a sturdy enclosure, especially if the weather elements are constantly battering the material.