How Much Does A Pool Enclosure Cost?

Pool Enclosure Cost

A pool enclosure costs $5 to $65 per square foot or between $4,000 and $50,000 on average. Pool screen enclosures cost $5 to $15 per square foot, plastic or glass pool cages run $15 to $65 per square foot, and custom or retractable enclosures are $40 to $200 per square foot.

Most enclosures are aluminum framing with screen mesh in southern climates, and glass or plastic in northern. A 12′ x 24′ pool with 3′ deck needs an 18′ x 30′ (540 SF) enclosure.

• A pool enclosure reduces insects, debris, and pollen.
• Provides privacy, UV protection during summer months, and acts as a windbreaker.
• Extends the swimming season to earlier in the spring and later in the fall. All-season lanais or glass enclosures enable swimming year-round.
• Reduces heating costs, chlorine use, and sweeping time.
• You can customize your enclosure design.
• Increases your home's resale value.

Pool Screen Enclosure Cost

A pool screen enclosure costs $5 to $15 per square foot or between $4,000 and $14,000 on average, depending on the size, type, and quality of materials. Pool screen enclosures, lanais, and pool cages are 3-season, which lets the air to flow freely, but reduces insects, debris, and UV rays.

*A two-story enclosure requires scaffolding and costs 30% more.

• Most common and affordable enclosure that lasts 10 to 20 years before it needs rescreening.
• Ideal for southern climates, such as Florida. Pool cages are typically attached to the home, but can be freestanding.
• Mainly built with hurricane-rated aluminum framing that withstands winds up to 150 MPH when properly anchored and well maintained.
• Installing a super gutter for drainage or concrete footings to support the enclosure adds $1,500 to $2,500 or more to the overall cost.

Glass Pool Enclosures Cost

Glass pool enclosures cost $30 to $65 per square foot or between $15,000 and $50,000 on average, depending on the size, type, and glass quality. Outdoor glass pool enclosures are all-season rooms that block pests and endure rain, snow, and harsh temperatures for year-round use.

• For a 4-season pool enclosure, consider adding a moisture barrier, dehumidifier, or connecting to the home's HVAC system to regulate temperature.
• Choose from insulated, tinted, tempered, or high-impact glass with features such as UV, snow load, and hurricane protection.

Polycarbonate or Plastic Pool Enclosures Prices

Polycarbonate or plastic pool enclosures cost $15 to $45 per square foot or between $8,000 and $30,000 on average, depending on the size and height. Most prefabricated enclosures are circular panels that may be retractable or telescopic. Manufactures offer a 5 to 15-year limited warranty.

• 200x stronger than glass. Plus, it's lighter, more flexible, and insulates more efficiently.
• Offers UV protection, and is chemical and weather-resistant
• Withstand winds of 100 to 150 MPH and snow load between 25 and 70 PSF.
• This synthetic glass is cheap and durable, but has short longevity. The panels undergo discoloration over time and can crack, chip, dent, and scratch easily unless it’s hard coated.
• Polycarbonate panels are not sealed units, which can fill with dirt and water, causing fog and condensation build-up.

Pool Enclosure Kits Prices

Pool enclosure kits prices range from $2,500 to $15,000 on average, depending on the size and materials. Aluminium pool screen enclosure kits cost $5 to $15 per square foot, and rounded, telescopic enclosures with glass or polycarbonate panels run $15 to $30 per square foot and up.

*Shipping and assembly fees are not included.

DIY enclosure kits are reserved for smaller pools. Manufacturers typically offer a limited 5 to 15-year warranty.

Retractable Pool Enclosure Cost

A retractable pool enclosure costs $20 to $200 per square foot depending on the size and if it's manual or automatic. A manual, plastic, low-height (3'-6') retractable pool enclosure costs $3,000 to $25,000, while an automatic, glass, high-height (6'-10'+) structure runs $30,000 to $150,000.

Some retractable enclosures are telescopic, where each section gets smaller and smaller and retracts inside itself. Others have a retractable roof only.

Inflatable Pool Dome Cost

An inflatable pool dome costs $750 to $1,500 for an above ground pool, and between $2,500 and $7,500 for an inground pool. The plastic or vinyl cover is inflated with an air blower and held in place with water weights or deck anchors. The dome must be deflated and stored before a heavy storm or during the winter.

Vinyl Fabric Pool Enclosure Prices

A vinyl fabric pool enclosure costs $10,000 to $25,000. Similar to a wedding tent, a reinforced vinyl membrane is stretched over a rigid, interlocking, and tubular frame. These structures can withstand heavy snow and winds and are permanent, but can be relocated. Some models have lighting, central air, and insulation. The fabric is either colored, clear, or opaque.

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Pool Screen Enclosure Cost Estimator

The main cost factors when installing a swimming pool enclosure are its height, size, materials, strength, and whether it’s attached to an existing structure or freestanding.

Size & Height of Pool Cage

The larger the enclosure, the lower the cost per square foot, but the higher the overall cost. The size of the enclosure depends on the size of your pool, deck, and seating area. A 12′ x 24′ pool with 3′ sidewalk needs an 18′ x 30′ (540 SF) enclosure. A 6′ deck area requires a 24 x 36’ (864 SF) enclosure.

Enclosures need a height of at least 7′ to 8′ to walk or stand, which costs twice as much as a low enclosure that only covers the pool. Heights vary from one foot above the surface of the pool, up to two-stories tall.

Freestanding vs. Attached Design

A freestanding pool enclosure costs more to install than one attached to an existing structure if a wall section is not required. When attaching to a house, the height of the enclosure matches the roof and connects with a super gutter for drainage, which adds to the total cost.

Permanent vs. Portable Pool Enclosures

Above ground pool enclosures are typically portable, such as inflatable domes or vinyl fabric tents with zippered doors. Inground pool enclosures are mainly permanent, using aluminum framing with screen or glass.

A permanent pool enclosure costs $3,000 to $50,000 on average, doesn't move, lasts longer, and is the most cost-effective. A portable pool enclosure such as a pool dome costs $750 to $7,500, but has to be taken down each season and may only last five seasons.

Pool Enclosure Screen Materials

Pool enclosure screen materials are drastically cheaper than glass or plastic panels, allows for natural airflow, and protects against the sun and insects. Avoid cheap Artisan screen, and choose Super Screen or Phifer screen in polyester, fiberglass, or aluminum, which has a 10-year warranty.

Top screen features are UV, tiny insect, and pollen protection, pet resistance, heat repellant, flame retardant, water-shedding abilities, low VOCs, antimicrobial protection, and lead-free materials.

Pool Screen Mesh Sizes

Screen mesh sizes range from 8/8 to 20/20, which shows the number of openings per linear inch. The mesh size impacts the protection against squirrels, birds, and insects getting into the pool area, as well as your view outside the cage.

• 18/14 gauge is the standard size mesh.
• 20/20 gauge has smaller holes and prevents pine needles, all insects, and offers UV protection.
• Florida Glass is a vinyl-coated fiberglass screen without any holes that's commonly used around the base of the enclosure for privacy and to keep dirt and pets out.

High Wind & Snow Loads

Pool enclosures in areas with hurricanes, high winds, or heavy snow loads cost 10% more. All-season pool enclosures require sloped roofs and a gutter system to facilitate rain and snowmelt runoff, a reinforced and interlocking frame, larger framing or structural members, bracing or steel wire cables, and high-quality glass or sheet glazing certified for hurricane and heavy snow load.

Roof Types

Roof shapes like gabled, hipped, segmented, or lean-to cost 10% to 20% more to build than flat or curved shapes. Another option is combining a glass or polycarbonate roof with screen mesh sides to allow the wind to flow freely.

Screen Enclosure Gutter

A screen enclosure gutter costs $1,500 to $2,500 to install on average. This structural super gutter is 5" to 7" wide heavy-gauge aluminum that provides a barrier between the house and pool, supports the weight of the enclosure, protects the fascia, and provides the roof drainage.

Concrete Footing For Screen Enclosure

Screen enclosures typically require an 8” by 8” concrete footing to anchor and support the weight of the enclosure properly. Installing footings costs $4 to $6 per linear foot. Small enclosures may only require a 4” nominal slab. A contractor will determine the foundation and footing requirements.

• Existing concrete pool decks often already have a footing that can support an enclosure.
• Existing paver patios require a footing to be poured under the pavers before building an enclosure.

Pool Enclosure Permits

Permanent screen enclosures require a permit to make sure it's properly supported and secured. Pool enclosure permits cost $30 to $325 on average and may take months for approval. A portable enclosure will likely not require a permit.

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Additional Pool Cage Costs Calculator

Additional upgrades influence the installation cost, personal comfort, and how the finished enclosure looks in the yard.

Swimming Pool Enclosure Doors

New pool enclosure doors cost $200 to $500 each to install on average, depending on the type of materials, style, and strength. Choose from swing, bi-fold, sliding, or automatic styles in wood, steel, aluminum, or vinyl. Add a self-closing lock or pool door alarm to increase safety.

Pool Cage Lighting Cost

Pool cage lighting costs $800 to $2,500 to install on average. Running electricity to a freestanding enclosure costs $500 to $1,500 more. This low-voltage LED lighting system is safe near water, fits into the beam of the enclosure, and the wiring is concealed.

Air Conditioner & Heated Pool Enclosure

Adding or expanding the HVAC unit costs $300 to $5,000 to bring air conditioning and heat to a glass pool enclosure. Consider installing a sunroom over the swimming pool instead, for better energy-efficiency. A 4-season sunroom costs $20,000 to $80,000 to build on average.

An all-season pool enclosure needs a dehumidifier year-round to prevent mold and mildew, improve air quality, remove odor issues, and reduce energy costs. An indoor pool dehumidifier costs $1,000 to $3,000.

Pool Screen Cover

If your main concern is keeping debris out and preventing water evaporation, install a swimming pool cover instead. Pool covers cost $100 to $15,000, with most homeowners spending $1,000 to $3,600, depending on the material and if it's a manual or retractable cover.

Privacy Shades For Pool Enclosures

Privacy shades or curtains for pool enclosures cost $30 to $200 per shade on average. Shades provide nighttime privacy, block sunlight, and many are retractable.

Another option is installing a pool awning to provide cover and shade. A basic shade sail costs $100 to $400, while a manual or motorized retractable awning runs $2,000 to $5,000 on average.

Additional Upgrades

• Landscaping – Landscaping around the pool cage costs $4 to $12 per square foot. Consider extending the enclosure to include landscaping inside.
• Seating or Storage Areas – Entertain guests and store pool supplies. Building a concrete patio costs $4 to $12 per square foot to add extra space.
• Drains – Installing drains along the bottom rail of the pool cage to let out pooling water costs $30 to $50 per drain.
• Cabana Bar – Add a cabinet and countertop with a refrigerator for $600 to $2400.
• Pool Fence – Installing a pool fence costs $12 to $16 per linear foot, and helps prevent kids from reaching the water.
• Furniture and Décor – Outdoor patio furniture starts at $200 for a small table and chairs, up to $2,500 for a 5-piece wicker sofa seating set. A pool storage shed costs $300 to $600, while hanging and potted plants run $30 to $200 each.

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Pros and Cons of Swimming Pool Enclosures

The pros of building a swimming pool enclosure outweigh the cons. Pool screens can protect your health, safety, privacy, pool maintenance time, and your wallet.

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Pool Cage Maintainance & Replacement Costs

Pool screen repairs cost $200 to $600 for small jobs, and between $1,200 and $3,500 for a complete rescreening. Proper maintenance can increase the longevity of your pool enclosure by a decade or more. Regular maintenance tasks include:

• Clean the enclosure every six months, or hire a professional to pressure wash annually.
• Tighten or replace loose bracing cables after a storm.
• Store all movable objects away from the enclosure if high winds are threatened.
• Remove any peeling paint and do paint touchups.
• Check all screens, anchors, bracing cables, door hardware, adjacent wood, and rubber splines regularly.
• Replace torn screens or glass/plastic panels at the first sign of damage.
• Replace rusted or weak screws, anchors, fasteners, or bolts.
• Repair or replace damaged door hardware and lubricate it.
• Replace rotting fascia or soffits. Consider adding a super gutter to direct the flow of water.
• Replace loose rubber splines.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do Pool Enclosures Last?

Pool enclosures last 10 to 25 years, depending on the frame and screen type. High-end pool enclosures have warranties coving the frame, roof panels, and labor. Using high-quality screens, aluminum framing, and removing trees around the enclosure ensures it lasts the longest.

Do Pool Screens Block Sun?

Pool screens give you protection from the sun and block out 30% to 80% of the sun's harmful UV rays, depending on the mesh size and brand. Plus, pool screens keep the patio up to 15 degrees cooler, block out bugs, and makes cleaning a breeze.

How Much Does a Pool Enclosure Cost in Florida?

A pool enclosure in Florida costs $6,000 to $12,000 on average, depending on the size of the deck, type of enclosure, and materials used. In Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Tampa, prices range from $5 to $15 per square foot to build a mesh pool screen enclosure with aluminum framing.

Why Are Pools in Florida Enclosed?

Pool screen enclosures are common in Florida because of safety requirements. Enclosures protect against bugs, sunlight, and water evaporation, keeps the pool water cooler during hot Florida days, and makes cleaning the pool easier.

Are Pool Screen Enclosures Covered by Insurance?

Pool screen enclosures are not covered by insurance, but may be added to the policy. You can buy a rider up to $50,000 in coverage, in $10,000 increments. However, most providers only cover the framing and not the screening. Also, some insurers won't pay if the enclosure has not been maintained.

Does Homeowners Insurance Go Up with a Pool Enclosure?

Homeowners insurance usually won’t go up with a pool enclosure, because the insurance is already higher from the pool. Insurance costs may go down slightly due to the extra safety the enclosure provides, especially if there's a lock on the door to protect the pool from trespassers.

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Hiring A Pool Enclosure Company

Although small kit enclosures can be built yourself, most enclosures require hiring an experienced contractor to install. Professionals have access to a wider selection of materials at better prices, have the right equipment, have insurance, comply with all building codes, and offer a warranty.

Before hiring a professional pool enclosure company, be sure to:

• Get at least three estimates to compare.
• Ask for recommendations from family, friends, and neighbors.
• Read reviews and check out their previous work on HomeGuide, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
• Select companies that are insured, bonded, and have been in business for longer than five years.
• Ask for a clear written warranty.
• Ask for past references of pool enclosures they have installed.
• Look for contractors with APSP CBP (Association of Pool & Spa Building Professionals) certification.
• Ask for a full itemized contract in writing in case of a dispute.
• Avoid making large payments upfront. Never pay in full or in cash, and come up with a payment schedule for work completed.

Building Considerations

To build a high-quality pool cage, professionals recommend:

• Framing – Certified aluminum framing (6005 alloy) is strong, doesn’t rust or corrode like steel or rot like wood, can be certified as hurricane reinforced, has built-in spline tracks, and has a painted or anodized finish.
• Beam Connections – Connecting beams using beam knuckles with internal gusset plates – not a scissor connection.
• Fasteners – Premium 18/8 stainless or Pro-Tech fasteners – basic stainless heads will rust.
• Screen – Super Screen (17/20), Phifer TuffScreen (18/14), or Phifer No-See-Ums (20/20) mesh are pet and weather-resistant, tightly woven to keep out almost all insects, include a 10-year warranty, and last up to 20 years.
• Doors – Install heavier aluminum doors with a continuous piano hinge, weather stripping, an adjustable door sweep, and a keyed or coded security lock embedded in the frame.

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