What Does a Screened Pool Enclosure Cost?

Screened pool enclosure cost typically ranges from $9,900 to $14,000 nationwide, though Florida homeowners often pay between $8,000 and $12,000 depending on size, materials, and design complexity.

Here's a quick snapshot of what you can expect to pay:

Prices are driven by four main factors: size, materials, roof design, and local labor rates. Expect to pay roughly $5.50 to $16.50 per square foot for a standard screen enclosure — more for glass or polycarbonate.

I'm Cody Lafferty, Founder & CEO of Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, and after a decade of hands-on experience designing and building custom screen enclosures across Brevard County, I've seen how the right choices can dramatically shift your screened pool enclosure cost — up or down. In this guide, I'll walk you through every factor that affects pricing so you can budget confidently and avoid costly surprises.

Understanding the Average Screened Pool Enclosure Cost

When we talk about the national average for a screened pool enclosure cost, we usually see figures landing between $9,900 and $14,000. However, living in the "Lightning Capital" and "Hurricane Alley" means our local reality in places like Melbourne, Titusville, and Palm Bay is a bit different. Because screen enclosures are so common here, the market is competitive, often bringing the average local investment to a range of $8,000 to $12,000 for standard residential pools.

Pricing is most accurately calculated by the square footage of the screened surface area. For a basic grade enclosure, you might see labor and supplies each hovering around a few hundred dollars per 500 square feet for simple setups, but custom structural work is where the real math happens.

Beyond the initial price tag, it is vital to look at the return on investment (ROI). A high-quality enclosure doesn't just keep the bugs out; it can provide a 60% to 80% return on resale value. Furthermore, it slashes your weekly maintenance time and chemical costs—sometimes by as much as 75%—because it blocks debris and reduces chlorine evaporation from direct UV exposure. For more details on these financial benefits, check out our deep dive into pool screen enclosure cost.

Key Factors: Size, Height, and Design

If you’ve ever wondered why your neighbor’s quote was thousands less than yours, the answer usually lies in the geometry of the structure.

How Size Impacts Screened Pool Enclosure Cost

It’s a simple rule of thumb: more mesh and more aluminum equals a higher price. However, we don't just measure the water in the pool. To get an accurate estimate, we have to look at the total footprint, which includes:

• The pool surface area.
• The pool deck and any integrated patio space.
• The perimeter measurements for the "walls" of the cage.
• The vertical height (two-story enclosures can double the cost due to increased structural bracing and labor difficulty).

For example, a standard 1,500-square-foot pool cage typically costs between $15,000 and $22,500 in our region, covering both the pool and a generous lounging area.

Roof Type and Design Complexity

The "lid" of your enclosure is often the most expensive part to build. Different shapes require different amounts of engineering and material:

Roof StyleCost ImpactBest ForMansardModerate PremiumFeeling of spaciousness, very popularGable/A-FrameHigher PremiumMatching home architecture, high ceilings

Mansard roofs are the "Goldilocks" of Florida enclosures—they offer great structural integrity and a spacious feel without the extreme price tag of a custom A-frame. If you live in a high-wind area like Melbourne Beach or Cape Canaveral, we often recommend hip-roofed or domed designs because they shed wind pressure more effectively than flat surfaces.

Material Selection: Framing and Screening Options

The skeleton of your enclosure is almost always high-grade aluminum. We use aluminum because it’s lightweight, incredibly strong, and—most importantly for our coastal neighbors in Indian River Shores and Vero Beach—it resists the corrosive salt air that eats through other metals.

Material Quality and Screened Pool Enclosure Cost

Not all screens are created equal. While standard fiberglass mesh is the baseline, we often recommend upgrades that offer better longevity:

• Phifer Screens: These are the industry standard for a reason. They typically last 10 to 15 years and come in various types, including "No-See-Um" mesh for those tiny gnats and solar screens that block heat.
• Pet-Resistant Mesh: If you have a golden retriever who thinks the screen is a door, this heavy-duty polyester mesh is worth the extra $3,000–$5,000 investment.
• Visibility: Charcoal-colored screens are our top pick because they offer the best outward visibility, making the screen almost "disappear" when you're looking at the sunset.

Understanding Screen Material Choices

The cost of the mesh itself usually adds $5 to $15 per unit to the project. When comparing this to other options, like solid-roof patio covers, you're gaining massive airflow and natural light. If you are debating between a full pool cage or just covering your porch, you can find more information about patio enclosure costs to help you decide which fits your lifestyle better.

Regional Pricing and Installation Considerations

In Florida, "standard" construction isn't enough. Our building codes, such as those outlined by the Florida Building Commission, are some of the strictest in the world to ensure your enclosure doesn't become a kite during a hurricane.

Labor Rates and Florida Standards

Labor for a screened enclosure typically runs around $35 per hour. If you were to opt for a glass enclosure, that rate jumps to $50 per hour due to the specialized handling required. In major Florida hubs like Rockledge or West Melbourne, you can expect the total installed cost to range between $5 and $15 per square foot.

We take great pride in our Florida Pool Enclosure Costs guide, which highlights how local hurricane codes require stronger aluminum beams (often 7-inch or 8-inch members) and specific anchoring systems that you won't find in DIY kits from big-box stores.

Attached vs. Freestanding Structures

• Attached: Most enclosures we build are attached to the home. This is often more cost-effective because the house acts as the fourth wall, reducing material needs. Costs range from $5,000 to $50,000 depending on complexity.
• Freestanding: If your pool is located further back in the yard, a freestanding structure is necessary. These range from $5,000 to $20,000. While they require more framing, they offer total design freedom.

Additional Costs to Budget For

When planning your screened pool enclosure cost, don't forget these "hidden" essentials:

1. Permits: Depending on whether you're in Brevard or Indian River County, permits can run between $200 and $800.
2. Engineering: Custom designs often require a structural engineer's stamp ($1,000–$2,000) to prove they can withstand 150 MPH winds.
3. Super Gutters: These are heavy-duty gutters that support the weight of the enclosure where it meets your house ($1,650+).
4. Lighting and HVAC: Adding LED nebula lighting or extending your home's cooling can add $500 to $2,000 to the total.

If you’re looking at an existing structure that’s seen better days, you might just need a refresh. You can learn how much it costs to replace pool screens to see if a full replacement is actually necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pool Enclosures

How long does a screened pool enclosure last?

With proper maintenance and high-quality materials like HD or Phifer screen and powder-coated aluminum, an enclosure can last 15 to 25 years. The mesh usually needs replacing every 10–12 years, while the aluminum frame can last a lifetime if it's not structurally damaged.

Does a pool enclosure increase home value?

Absolutely. In Florida, a pool without a screen is often seen as a "half-finished" project. An enclosure adds usable square footage to your home and is a major selling point, often recouping a significant portion of its cost during a sale.

Are permits required for pool screen enclosures in Florida?

Yes. Because these are permanent structures that must meet wind-load requirements, every city from Cape Canaveral to Sebastian requires a permit and a final inspection to ensure the structure is safe.

Conclusion

Investing in a pool enclosure is about more than just numbers; it’s about reclaiming your backyard from the heat, the bugs, and the endless cleaning. At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, we’ve spent over 30 years perfecting the art of the Florida pool cage. Whether you are in Merritt Island, Viera, or Vero Beach, we focus on structural integrity and craftsmanship that stands up to our unique climate.

Ready to get an exact figure for your project? We’d love to help you design a space that fits your budget and your lifestyle. Explore our options for swimming pool screen enclosures and let's start building your backyard oasis today.