How to Fix a Pool Screen

How to Fix a Pool Screen: What Florida Homeowners Need to Know

If you’re searching for “fix pool screen”, chances are your enclosure is showing signs of wear, damage, or structural deterioration. In Florida, pool screens are exposed to year-round sun, humidity, salt air, storms, and debris—so it’s normal for homeowners to eventually need repairs or even full rebuilds.

A well-maintained pool screen enclosure not only keeps out bugs and debris—it also protects your pool investment and enhances the beauty, safety, and comfort of your outdoor living space. When damage occurs, it’s important to address it quickly before small issues become major structural problems.

This guide covers the most common ways to fix a pool screen, the types of repairs available, and when a simple rescreen isn’t enough. Whether you're dealing with ripped mesh panels, aging screws, or structural damage like bent mansard beams, here’s what you need to know.

Why Pool Screens in Florida Need Repair Over Time

Even the strongest pool enclosures eventually need maintenance due to Florida’s unique climate conditions:

  • Intense UV exposure weakens screen mesh and spline rubber
  • High winds from storms or hurricanes bend beams or tear screens
  • Salt air corrosion accelerates screw and fastener deterioration
  • Humidity and heat degrade materials over time
  • Falling branches or debris can puncture or damage screens

Because of this, it’s common for homeowners to need periodic repairs—ranging from minor panel replacements to full structural rebuilds.

1. Full Pool Enclosure Rescreening

One of the most effective ways to fix an aging pool screen is a full rescreen. Over time, mesh screens fade, tear, sag, or become brittle. When multiple panels show wear, replacing them one by one becomes less cost-effective than rescreening the entire enclosure.

Signs you need a full rescreen:

  • Screens feel brittle or break easily when touched
  • Multiple panels have holes or tears
  • Insects or debris are entering the enclosure
  • The enclosure looks aged, discolored, or sagging
  • Your enclosure is more than 8–10 years old

A full rescreen gives your pool cage a clean, refreshed look and drastically improves visibility, airflow, and durability.

2. Full Screw Replacement (Re-Screw / Re-Tap)

Your pool enclosure fasteners may be small, but they have a huge impact on structural integrity. Over time, screws rust, corrode, or loosen—especially in coastal counties like Brevard and Indian River.

A full screw replacement involves removing every old screw in the enclosure and replacing it with upgraded options, such as stainless steel fasteners. This is one of the best long-term upgrades homeowners can make.

Why fasteners matter:

  • Corroded screws weaken the entire frame
  • Rust stains can spread across aluminum beams
  • Loose fasteners reduce wind durability
  • High coastal humidity accelerates failure

Upgrading to stainless steel fasteners greatly extends the lifespan of your enclosure and strengthens it against storm conditions.

3. Replacing Aluminum Mansard Beams

When researching “fix pool screen,” many homeowners discover that sometimes the issue is more structural than cosmetic.

The mansard beam—the horizontal beam that forms the perimeter “frame” of a mansard-style enclosure—is one of the most critical structural components. When damaged by storms, tree branches, or years of corrosion, it may need to be replaced entirely.

Signs a mansard beam may need replacement:

  • Visible bending or bowing
  • Sagging or separation at connection points
  • Cracks, dents, or stress marks
  • Structural movement during high winds
  • Improper support for picture window openings

Because mansard beams contribute to the enclosure’s wind load rating, replacing them ensures the structure remains safe and compliant with Florida building standards.

4. Tear-Out and Rebuild of a Pool Screen Enclosure

Sometimes, repairing or rescreening isn’t enough. When damage is extensive, or the enclosure is past its usable lifespan, a tear-out and full rebuild is often the best solution.

A full rebuild allows you to:

  • Modernize the enclosure
  • Upgrade to stronger structural materials
  • Add features like picture windows or panoramic openings
  • Install premium, long-lasting screen mesh
  • Improve wind resistance and durability
  • Refresh the overall look and value of your home

When a rebuild makes sense:

  • Severe storm damage
  • Structural rust or corrosion
  • Outdated materials and design
  • Widespread framing deterioration
  • Plans to add upgraded features

A new enclosure also ensures your pool area meets current Florida wind load standards, giving you peace of mind during storm season.

5. Upgraded Features That Improve Durability & Performance

Fixing a pool screen isn’t just about repairs—you can also upgrade materials and design elements to improve long-term value.

Stainless Steel Fasteners

One of the smartest upgrades. They resist rust far better than standard screws and keep the frame secure for years.

20×20 No-See-Um Mesh

Great for homes near water or wooded areas. It blocks tiny insects that pass through standard screening.

Picture Window Panels / Panoramic Views

Modern enclosures often feature wide-open panels with fewer vertical supports. This opens up the backyard view, creates a luxury aesthetic, and improves airflow.

High-Strength Polyester Mesh (“SuperScreen”)

UV-resistant and tear-resistant, this mesh lasts significantly longer than traditional fiberglass.

Upgrades like these not only improve durability—they also enhance the appearance and usability of your enclosure.

6. When Should You Repair vs. Rebuild?

Many homeowners ask whether it’s better to repair or rebuild. The answer depends on:

  • The amount of structural vs. cosmetic damage
  • The age of the enclosure
  • The quality of the original materials
  • The level of corrosion present
  • Your long-term plans for the outdoor space
  • Whether you want panoramic or custom upgrades

A professional assessment is the only way to determine the best option, but as a rule of thumb:
If more than half of the enclosure is damaged or outdated, rebuilding often provides better value.

7. Why Professional Repair Matters in Florida

Pool screen enclosures must withstand strong winds, intense UV exposure, and coastal conditions. Fixing a pool screen the right way requires:

  • Proper fastener choices
  • Understanding of Florida wind load engineering
  • Correct screen tensioning
  • Accurate alignment of beams and panels
  • Compliance with local building codes

A DIY repair can lead to sagging screens, weak reinforcement, or even code violations. A professional ensures your enclosure looks new and performs like it should.

Final Thoughts: Fixing Your Pool Screen the Right Way

Whether you need minor repairs or a complete enclosure rebuild, addressing damage early helps protect your pool, your home, and your outdoor lifestyle.

At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, we specialize in:

  • Full rescreens
  • Full screw replacements
  • Mansard beam replacement
  • Structural repair and reinforcement
  • Complete tear-out and rebuilds

We ensure every repair is built to last—using materials designed specifically for Florida’s challenging climate.

Get a Free Quote to Fix Your Pool Screen

Don’t let torn screens, rusted screws, or structural damage reduce the value of your outdoor space. Let our experts restore your enclosure quickly and professionally.

Call Lafferty Aluminum & Screening: 321-652-1078
Request a Quote Online.

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"Lafferty did an amazing job! We love our new screen. They were very professional and we had our finished screen before expected. We recommend Lafferty to everyone."

Andrea Durango

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Lafferty did an excellent job on our unconventional screening project. The office staff was responsive and friendly. From consultation to installation, all of our questions and concerns were addressed.

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"Lafferty did an excellent job installing our pool screens. The are prompt and keep you well informed concerning the job!  I would definitely hire Lafferty Screens again!!"

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"We are very satisfied with our new fence and work done by Lafferty Aluminum.  Quality, professionalism, and reliability working with Lafferty has been very good and I am happy we chose them."

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"Lafferty was one of the easiest and smoothest company's to work with.  We are building our home and these guys were so customer friendly, answered all our questions, was available to take our call if we had questions."

R. Morris

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"Friendly service, professional attitude of employee, polite and they cleaned up as they worked.   We had our pool enclosed redone after hurricane damage and now it looks great. Thanks"

Norman Danella

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"Lafferty did a fantastic job from start to finish on the patio pavers and aluminum screening. They completed the project on time, and perhaps even a little ahead of schedule!"

Jennifer Rinehart

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"I couldn't be happier with the work performed by Lafferty.  They replaced my original screen house in February in a professional and timely manner.  I would highly recommend them for your screen enclosure needs."

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