What Does It Cost to Rescreen a Pool Cage? (Quick Answer)

The average cost to rescreen a pool cage falls between $1,200 and $5,400 for most homeowners, depending on enclosure size and screen material.

Here's a quick breakdown to help you budget:

ScopeTypical Cost RangeSmall repairs (per panel)$25 - $200Partial rescreening$200 - $800Full rescreen (300 sq ft)$2,100 - $2,700Full rescreen (600 sq ft)$4,200 - $5,400Full rescreen (900 sq ft)$6,300 - $8,100Per square foot (installed)$7 - $9

If your enclosure has widespread damage, a full rescreen is almost always more cost-effective than replacing panels one at a time.

That budget number can catch Florida homeowners off guard — especially after a rough storm season tears up multiple panels at once. The costs add up fast, and without a clear picture of what drives the price, it's easy to either overpay or underinvest in materials that won't hold up to the next hurricane.

This guide breaks down exactly what goes into rescreening costs so you can plan with confidence — whether you're dealing with a few torn panels or a full enclosure that needs replacing from top to bottom.

I'm Cody Lafferty, and with over 10 years of hands-on experience in aluminum and screening installations across Florida, I've helped hundreds of homeowners understand the average cost to rescreen a pool cage and make smart, lasting choices for their outdoor spaces. Let's walk through everything you need to know.

What is the Average Cost to Rescreen a Pool Cage?

When we talk about the average cost to rescreen a pool cage, the most significant variable is the total square footage of the screen material required. It is important to distinguish between the footprint of your pool deck and the actual "screenable" surface area, which includes the walls and the roof.

For most projects in areas like Melbourne, Palm Bay, and Vero Beach, homeowners can expect to pay between $7 and $9 per square foot for a professional full rescreening. This price typically includes the removal of old mesh, the installation of new high-quality screen, new spline (the rubber cord that holds the screen in place), and basic door adjustments.

Cost Breakdown by Enclosure Size

To give you a clearer picture of what to expect on your estimate, we’ve broken down the typical costs for common enclosure sizes found across the Space Coast and Treasure Coast.

Enclosure Size (Footprint)Estimated Screen Surface AreaProfessional Cost Range ($7–$9/sq ft)Small (approx. 300 sq ft)800 - 1,000 sq ft$2,100 - $2,700Medium (approx. 600 sq ft)1,800 - 2,200 sq ft$4,200 - $5,400Large (approx. 900 sq ft)2,800 - 3,200 sq ft$6,300 - $8,100

For those looking for more detailed data, you can find more info about pool screen enclosure costs to help refine your budget.

While the national average for a pool screen repair might sit around $923, full rescreening is a more intensive project. If you are only looking to fix a few panels, expect to pay between $25 and $65 per panel, though many contractors have a minimum service fee (often $100 to $200) to cover travel and setup time.

Key Factors Influencing Your Rescreening Estimate

Every pool cage is unique, and several architectural factors can push your estimate toward the higher or lower end of the spectrum. At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, we always look at the structural "geometry" before providing a final quote.

Enclosure Height: 1-Story vs. 2-Story

The height of your cage is one of the biggest cost drivers. A standard one-story enclosure is relatively easy to access with ladders. However, a two-story enclosure—common in multi-level homes in Merritt Island or Satellite Beach—requires specialized scaffolding, walk-boards, and additional safety equipment. You can generally expect a 30% to 50% increase in labor costs for two-story structures due to the increased risk and time required to maneuver at height.

Roof Style: Gable, Dome, or Mansard

The shape of your enclosure's roof affects how much screen is used and how difficult it is to install.

• Gable (A-frame): Adds more surface area and requires more precise cuts.
• Dome or Mansard: These complex shapes involve more aluminum segments and angles, which increases labor time and material waste.

Frame Condition and Structural Integrity

Before we pull a single spline, we assess the "bones" of the cage. If the aluminum frame is wobbling or the fasteners are rusted through, simply putting on new screen is like putting a band-aid on a broken bone. Understanding the importance of choosing between repair and rescreening is vital here. If the frame is failing, we may recommend structural repairs or fastener replacement to ensure your new screens don't just blow out in the next afternoon thunderstorm.

Accessibility

Is your pool cage surrounded by thick mangroves or tight property lines? If our team can't easily place ladders or maneuver around the exterior of the cage, the job will take longer, which can slightly increase the labor portion of your estimate.

Choosing the Right Material: From Fiberglass to Pet-Resistant Mesh

In the Florida climate, your choice of mesh is the difference between a screen that lasts five years and one that lasts fifteen. The sun's UV rays are brutal on the Space Coast, and choosing the right material is essential for longevity.

• Fiberglass Mesh: This is the industry standard. It’s affordable, offers great visibility, and is rust-resistant. However, it is the least durable option, often becoming brittle after 7 to 10 years of intense Florida sun.
• Polyester Screen: Often referred to as "Super Screen," this is a premium upgrade. It is significantly stronger than fiberglass and carries much longer warranties (often 10 years or more). It resists fading and is much harder for debris or hail to tear.
• Solar Screens: If your pool area feels like an oven in July, solar screens can block up to 90% of the sun's heat. This not only makes the patio more comfortable but can actually help lower your home's cooling costs if the pool area is attached to the house. You can check the latest research on UV rays and screen protection in Florida to see why UV-rated screens are a necessity here.

How Material Choice Impacts the Average Cost to Rescreen a Pool Cage

Upgrading your material will increase your upfront average cost to rescreen a pool cage, but it often pays for itself in durability.

• Standard Fiberglass: $0.75 – $1.25 per sq ft (material only)
• No-See-Um Mesh: $1.10 – $1.60 per sq ft (finer weave to keep out tiny gnats)
• Pet-Resistant Screen: $2.00 – $3.00 per sq ft. This vinyl-coated polyester is roughly seven times stronger than standard mesh. If you have a dog that likes to "paw" at the screen when a squirrel runs by, this is a must-have.
• Super Screen/TuffScreen: $2.25 – $3.25 per sq ft. These are the "buy it once" options that offer the best tear resistance.

While premium materials might add $1,000 to $2,000 to a total project price, they can double the lifespan of your enclosure, saving you a full rescreening cycle down the road.

Labor and Additional Expenses in the Average Cost to Rescreen a Pool Cage

When budgeting, labor typically accounts for 60% to 70% of the total bill. Professional technicians don't just "push in" screen; they ensure proper tension so the panels don't sag or "whistle" in the wind.

Common "Add-ons" to consider:

1. Fastener Replacement: If your screws are rusting, they can bleed onto your deck and weaken the frame. Replacing them with ceramic-coated or stainless steel fasteners during a rescreen can save you a separate $1,000 service call later.
2. Door Hardware: Most rescreening jobs should include a "tune-up" for your screen doors. New closers and handles usually cost $50 to $100 per door.
3. Spline Replacement: We always recommend new spline. Reusing old, brittle rubber is a recipe for screens popping out.
4. Wildlife Protection: Florida is home to many critters. From squirrels chewing through mesh to protecting your pool from wild animals like raccoons, upgrading to a "pet screen" on the bottom "kick plate" panels is a smart move for many homeowners in wooded areas like Grant Valkaria or Roseland.

Repair vs. Full Rescreening: Which is More Cost-Effective?

We often get asked: "Can't I just fix the five panels that are torn?"

Technically, yes. But here is the professional "insider" secret: individual panel replacement is the most expensive way to maintain a pool cage. A single panel might cost $75 to $200 to replace because the contractor has to drive to your home, set up, and perform the work for just one small area.

If your screen is more than 8 years old and you have more than 3 or 4 panels damaged, you are likely at the "tipping point." At this stage, the remaining panels are probably brittle and will tear soon anyway.

A complete guide to rescreening your pool enclosure will show you that doing the whole job at once provides:

• Uniformity: All panels match in color and visibility.
• Labor Efficiency: You pay one "setup" fee rather than multiple service calls.
• Peace of Mind: You won't be calling us back every time a stiff breeze blows.

As a general rule: if 20% or more of your panels are damaged, or if the screen turns to "dust" when you rub it with your finger, it’s time for a full rescreen.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pool Screen Costs

How much does it cost to rescreen a pool cage in Florida specifically?

In Florida, and specifically along the Space Coast (Melbourne, Titusville, Cocoa Beach), the average cost to rescreen a pool cage typically ranges from $1,200 to $3,500 for standard jobs, though very large or two-story enclosures can reach $5,000 to $8,000. Florida prices are often slightly higher than the national average due to the demand for higher-grade, wind-rated materials required by local building codes.

How long does a typical pool screen last before needing replacement?

Standard fiberglass mesh usually lasts 7 to 10 years. Premium polyester mesh (like Super Screen) can last 15 to 20 years. Factors like direct salt-spray exposure in coastal areas like Indialantic or Satellite Beach can shorten this lifespan, while regular cleaning can extend it.

Does homeowners insurance cover pool screen damage?

This is a tricky one. Standard Florida homeowners insurance policies often exclude screen enclosures from wind and hail damage unless you have a specific "Screen Enclosure" rider. Even with a rider, many policies only cover the aluminum frame, not the mesh itself. Always check your specific policy declarations before a storm hits!

Conclusion

Rescreening your pool cage is an investment in your home’s value and your own outdoor comfort. While the average cost to rescreen a pool cage can seem significant, breaking it down into size, material, and labor helps take the mystery out of the estimate. By choosing the right materials for the Florida sun and addressing structural issues like rusty fasteners early, you can ensure your "outdoor oasis" remains bug-free and beautiful for years to come.

At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, we bring over 30 years of family-owned expertise to every backyard in Brevard and Indian River County. From Cape Canaveral down to Vero Beach, we pride ourselves on quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. We don't just replace screens; we restore your peace of mind.

Ready to refresh your view? Get a professional estimate for your screen enclosure from our team today and let us help you protect your slice of Florida paradise.